Types of Glitter

Using glitter is a fun way to decorate or add an accent to an art project. There are various types of craft glitter, and all are available in art supply stores or online craft retailers. The most common type comes in tubes in assorted colors. These plastic tubes are filled with one color, such as blue, pink, silver, or gold. It is metallic, and even within one color it shimmers in the light and gives off a multidimensional effect of varying shades of the color.

Other glitters include an ultra fine variety, often called “diamond dust”. The consistency is much finer than traditional types and gives off a light iridescent shine that is not as chunky as regular varieties. The result is a more even coat of sparkle.

Sugar crystal is another type that is made up of bigger pieces of glitter that resemble bits of sugar. This coarse variety is thicker and reflects a lot of light. The thicker consistency is great for winter projects because it can resemble snow and ice.

Using glitter does not have to be a messy task. Sprays and glues offer sparkle and shine with less mess and a more even distribution. Sprays come in an aerosol can and disperse an even amount of shimmer onto a project.

Glue makes using glitter an easier task because it paints the sparkle over a surface. It combines applying glue and shaking out the glitter onto the project into one simple step. Sprays and glues both come in a variety of colors and are sold at most craft supplies stores.

Uses for Glitter

There are a number of uses for glitter for various art projects. Simple signs for yard sales, bake sales, and car washes are made even more eye-catching by using glitter to highlight the words and vital information. Dates, times and locations stand out on a sign when the letters are sparkling in the light. For signs, traditional varieties in tubes work great over glue.

Other crafts that can be accented with a little sparkle include wood projects like picture frames, jewelry boxes, and doll houses. Sprays can cover an area with a thin sheen of sparkle, while glues work well as an adhesive when adding other accents to a project, such as ribbon or flowers.

There are also uses for glitter with holiday and winter-themed projects. The sugar crystal variety is perfect for creating snowy and icy scenes. Glitter is also used when making Christmas ornaments and other holiday decorations.

With so many uses for glitter, it’s a great idea to stock up on as many colors and varieties as possible. Craft stores and online retailers have extensive selections, and they are an inexpensive accent to art projects.