Sofia Martinez
Personalised ornaments are a great way to commemorate special events and can make thoughtful gifts for friends and family. While some companies offer ornament personalisation services, many people choose to write on their ornaments themselves. In this article, we will explore the different ways to write on plastic ornaments, including the best tools and techniques to use. Whether you're a seasoned calligrapher or a DIY enthusiast, we'll help you create beautiful and memorable ornaments.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ornament Material | Plastic, glass, acrylic |
| Ornament Finish | Shiny or matte |
| Writing Tools | Paint pens, markers, pencils, chalk, stickers |
| Writing Tools Brands | Sharpie, Sakura Pen Touch, Posca, DecoColor, Molotow |
| Preparation Techniques | Cleaning the surface, creating mockups, sketching, using guidelines |
| Embellishments | Rhinestones, snowflakes, dots |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right pen
Pen Type
The type of pen you choose will depend on the surface of your ornament. For plastic ornaments, it is recommended to use paint pens, as they are designed to write on non-porous surfaces. Paint pens are also ideal if you want to achieve a consistent and opaque colour.
Ink Type
Consider whether you want to use a water-based or oil-based ink. Water-based pens are easy to find and can produce a nice matte effect on ornaments. However, they may not have strong staying power and can be scratched off. On the other hand, oil-based pens have better staying power and are less likely to be scratched. Nonetheless, they may not work well with painted surfaces, as the oil can react with the existing paint.
Tip Size
The tip size of the pen will depend on the level of detail you want to achieve in your design. Fine and extra-fine tips are ideal for intricate details and calligraphy, while broader tips can be used for bolder designs or filling in larger areas.
Colour
Paint pens come in a wide variety of colours, allowing you to choose the best shade to complement your ornament. You can also opt for metallic colours like gold and silver, which can add a sophisticated touch to your ornament.
Surface Considerations
Before choosing a pen, consider the surface of your plastic ornament. Is it glossy or matte? As mentioned earlier, glossy surfaces can be temperamental and may not always react well with certain types of ink. It is recommended to test the pen on a small area first to ensure compatibility.
Error Correction
Consider using a pen that allows for error correction, especially if you are new to ornament lettering. Paint pens that can be wiped off with nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol are a good option, as they allow for easy correction of mistakes.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right pen for writing on plastic ornaments and create long-lasting, personalised decorations.
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Ornament size and shape
When it comes to ornament size and shape, there are a few things to consider when writing on plastic ornaments. Firstly, the size of the ornament will determine how much space you have to write. If you plan to write more than just a name and the year, choose an ornament with a larger flat spot. This will give you more room to work with and make it easier to fit your desired text or design. Round ornaments with a diameter of 3-3.5 inches are a good option, as they provide enough space for writing without looking too large.
The shape of the ornament is also important to consider. If you are writing on a curved surface, you will need to rotate the ornament as you write, which can be a bit tricky. It's a good idea to start with a simple design and leave some negative space for flourishes to fill in later. You can also use guidelines to help you arrange your lettering. This can be done by using washi tape, drawing guidelines with a pencil, or sketching your design on paper first and then tracing it onto the ornament.
Another factor to consider is the thickness of the ornament. If you are using an acrylic ornament, a thickness of 1/8 inch is standard. However, if you plan to hang your ornament, a thinner option may be preferable to reduce weight.
When planning your design, keep in mind that you don't want your lettering to go too close to the bottom of the ornament, as it may not be visible when hanging on a tree. It's also important to evaluate the position of each letter as you write, especially when working on a curved surface, to ensure your words are legible.
Overall, when choosing the size and shape of your plastic ornament, consider how much space you need for your desired text or design, the difficulty of writing on curved surfaces, and the visibility of your lettering once the ornament is hung.
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Sketching your design
Choose the Right Tools:
Start by gathering the necessary tools for sketching. A pencil is a great tool for creating rough drafts of your design. You can also use a pen or a marker for a bolder sketch. Consider the size and shape of your ornament and choose a sketching tool that will allow you to create a design that fits well within the space.
Create a Mock-up:
Begin by tracing the shape of your ornament on a piece of paper. If you have a clear ornament, you can place it over your sketch to get a better idea of how your design will look. Fill the page with these tracings, creating a mock-up of your ornament. This will allow you to experiment with different designs and layouts before committing to the final piece.
Plan Your Design:
Think about the overall design you want to create. Consider the space you have to work with and the message or image you want to convey. If you're writing a word or phrase, plan the layout of the text, including the number of rows and the arrangement of letters. Keep it simple, especially if this is your first time. You can also add embellishments like snowflakes or dots to fill in any negative space.
Use Guidelines:
Use guidelines to help you arrange your design. You can use washi tape as a baseline for your text or draw guidelines with a pencil. This will help you keep your lettering straight and evenly spaced. Place the tape or draw the guidelines directly on the ornament to get a better idea of how your design will look.
Practice Your Lettering:
If you're writing words or phrases on your ornament, practice your lettering on a separate piece of paper. This will help you get a feel for the flow of the letters and the spacing required. Remember that writing on a curved surface can be challenging, so take your time and adjust your lettering as you go.
Finalize Your Sketch:
Once you're happy with your design and lettering, go over your sketch with ink or a darker pencil to make it more visible. This will be your guide when you start writing on the ornament itself. Remember to consider the visibility of your design when the ornament is hanging, ensuring that important elements are not too close to the bottom or sides.
With your sketch finalized, you're now ready to start writing on your plastic ornament. Remember to take your time and refer to your sketch as you work, bringing your design to life!
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Using washi tape
Washi tape is a versatile, decorative crafting tape that can be used to write on plastic ornaments. It is made from natural materials like fibres from the inner bark of the gampi tree, Mitsumata shrub, hemp, or paper mulberry (kōzo) bush, which is the most commonly used fibre. It is easy to tear with your hands and can be used to create beautiful effects. It is also water-resistant but not waterproof, so it is important not to soak it.
To use washi tape on plastic ornaments, start by sketching out your design on scrap paper. Size your sketch to match the ornament's surface for easy reference. Then, place the washi tape on the ornament as a base guideline for your text or design. Try to keep the tape as straight as possible, and remember to leave space at the bottom so that your design is visible when the ornament is hanging.
Using your chosen marker, write or draw your desired text or design onto the washi tape. If your design has tails or intricate details, simply lift the tape as you go along. You can also thicken your downstrokes by going over them again with the marker. If your design has multiple lines, repeat the process for each line, using landmarks from your sketch to match the placement of the words.
To add a festive touch, consider using metallic or holographic washi tape for a shimmery finish. You can also apply a layer of clear glue on top of the tape and sprinkle glitter on it. Alternatively, stick on small embellishments like beads, rhinestones, or pearls using hot glue. You can even attach mini bows, bells, or pom-poms to the ornament or the hanging ribbon.
Washi tape is a fun and easy way to customise plastic ornaments, and with its various colours, patterns, and textures, the possibilities are endless!
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Cleaning the ornament
Cleaning plastic ornaments is a delicate task, especially if they are vintage or glittered. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to clean your plastic ornaments:
Step 1: Assess the Ornament:
Before cleaning, carefully examine the ornament to identify any specific areas of concern, such as stubborn stains, dirt, or algae buildup. This will help you determine the best cleaning approach.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cleaning Method:
The cleaning method depends on the type of ornament and the extent of the dirt or damage.
- Glittered Ornaments: Avoid getting glittered ornaments wet, as this can cause the glitter to fall off. Instead, use a feather duster or soft makeup brush to lightly dust and remove debris. You can also use compressed air, being careful not to blow too hard, as this can damage or blow away the glitter.
- Glass Ornaments: Glass ornaments should be handled with care to avoid scratching their surfaces. Use a small brush or duster to remove dry debris first. Then, spray a soft cloth with glass cleaner and gently wipe down the ornament. Alternatively, you can use a soap and water mixture.
- Vintage, Fabric, Wood, or Metal Ornaments: For delicate vintage ornaments, it is recommended to wrap them in bubble wrap and store them in a thick plastic box or padded storage trunk. For fabric, wood, or metal ornaments, you can use compressed air to blow away dust and dirt, followed by wiping them down with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
- Aquarium Ornaments: To clean plastic ornaments from aquariums, start by removing them from the aquarium and rinsing them under tap water to clear any loose debris. Then, fill a large bowl or bucket with warm tap water (about 10 litres) and add a cleaning solution specifically designed for plastic ornaments, such as Plastic Plant Cleaner. Soak the ornaments in this solution for at least 8 hours or overnight. Finally, remove the ornaments from the solution, rinse them thoroughly in fresh water, and replant or re-site them in the aquarium.
Step 3: Deep Cleaning for Stubborn Stains:
For stubborn stains or dirt, you can use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the affected areas. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid scratching the ornament.
Step 4: Drying and Storage:
After cleaning, ensure that the ornaments are thoroughly dried before storing them. Place them in a well-ventilated area or gently pat them dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Store the ornaments in a clean, dry container, individually wrapping delicate ornaments in tissue paper or bubble wrap if necessary.
By following these steps, your plastic ornaments will be clean, preserved, and ready for display or storage!
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Frequently asked questions
Oil-based paint pens are recommended for plastic ornaments as they have terrific staying power. Sakura Pen Touch is a good option, with the Fine size being perfect for monoline calligraphy. If you want to add some shine, the gold DecoColor Liquid Gold pen is a good choice.
It's a good idea to create a mock-up or sketch of your design before writing on the ornament. You can do this by tracing the shape of the ornament onto paper and then creating your design. You can also use washi tape as a baseline guideline for your writing.
Before writing on the ornament, make sure the surface is clean and free of any oils or dust. When writing, anchor your pinky on the ornament to steady your hand and write slowly, especially when writing on a curved surface. Remember to leave enough space between rows of writing so that they can be easily read when the ornament is hanging.
Yes, if you don't want to hand-letter your ornaments, you can order customized stickers to stick on them. You can also use the chalk transfer technique, where you write your design on paper, trace it with chalk, and then transfer it onto the ornament.
