Applying Rub On Decals To Glass

Every now and then I pop into the Dollar Tree...just to see what's new.

While most of the store is filled with predictable staples, the holiday aisles are always a fun place to find little treasures.

Especially from October to December.

The shelves are always overflowing with very interesting and inspiring picks.

For example.

Last week, I found these small rub on transfers.

Adorable.


Psst- These are also a cute option.
And these would be sweet for Christmas.

Since I'm always up for an easy holiday home decor craft, I added a few to my cart.

Once I got them home, I chose a small 9oz stemless wine glass from my cabinet to transform.


Transfers are very easy to work with and even though I've used them before on many projects, I still took the time to read the simple instructions printed on the back of the package.

Just in case there were any good tips.

The process was a quick.

How To Apply A Rub On Transfer To Glass

I started by removing the transfer from the package.

Then I gently separated the protective plastic layer of film from the transfer.


Then I peeled it completely away without touching the transfer itself.

 It was very sticky and I knew if I bumped into it, the letters would come of on my hands.

Which is why I was equally as careful when I positioned it on the glass.

Unlike the wall decal stickers I've used to make wooden signs and candle holders, these transfers are not repositionable.

Once they touchdown, it's over. You can't move them around.

Luckily, it's not that hard to set them in the right spot.

The transfer is attached to a clear sheet so you can see right though it to center your design on the glass.

Then, just as I've done with other transfers and decals, I applied pressure to the front of the decal to release the letters from the plastic.


Instead of a credit card or rubbing tool, for this on the curved shape of the glass, my fingernail did the trick.

You can actually see the letters being released from the plastic, so it's easy to know when you're done.

Once I was sure the design had been fully transferred, I simply removed the top sheet.


To reveal a lovely holiday wine glass.

Seriously, how sweet is that? A custom beverage holder to decorate your holiday table.

And wow your guests. 


For a mere $1.25. 

However. That tiny price tag only buys you so much.

And staying power might not be included.

It doesn't mention it anywhere on the package, but I wouldn't put these in the dishwasher.

And while I did do a successful soapy test wash, several in fact, I don't think the decals would stand up to daily washings for very long.


But...I still think they could be a super festive DIY addition to a Friendsgiving gathering, fall wedding.

And of course, the Thanksgiving dinner table.

I believe they'd last quite a while if you pulled them out just once a year for a quick sprinkle of holiday cheer.

Or you could send them home with your guests as a unique party favor.

They could repurpose it as a seasonal votive holder.

A place to hold craft supplies. Spare change. Rings, buttons, paper clips.

Or more wine. 😉


Of course another option would be to add the decals to disposable plastic cups, less expensive, no washing worries.

However, I really like the way they look on glass.

And for little more than a buck apiece, I think it's an adorable and affordable holidays splurge. 

Happy Thanksgiving!