Decorate Sunglasses – Upgrade a cheap pair!
Sometimes, accessorizing can be a lot more fun when I add my personal touch… I decided to decorate sunglasses that I got on the cheap to make things more exciting. Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.
This craft tutorial focuses on tapes. I used various different types to create different looks. My favorite is Washi tape, because it’s easy to remove and switch it around if you want to change your look.
I wanted a bit more texture too, so I pulled out the fabric tape. It’s a much neater way to create that effect than trimming actual fabric to size (though you’re somewhat more limited with your print options).
If you want it to last longer, you can coat with a layer of mod podge to seal it. For me it’s a way to switch things around frequently, so I didn’t do that.
It’s so easy! So come on, grab some plain black shades and get to it!
Supplies you need to decorate sunglasses:
- Inexpensive sunglasses
- GOOD quality washi tape
- Masking tape
- Fabric tape
- Scissors, of course. (I recommend detail scissors for the fabric pair)
- Optional: mod podge and a foam brush
How to decorate sunglasses:
First, here’s a little video tutorial (step by step instructions follow):
If you’re using Washi tape, you’ll want to first “prime” it with masking tape (especially if you’re using a dark pair) as washi is translucent.
Measure to side, and fold around the edges, snipping and wrapping in segments to get around the curves. Do the same with the Washi tape on top.
Make sure to tuck all the edges in, and trim it properly. If you’d like it to last, you can coat with a layer of mod podge and allow it to dry completely.
If you don’t mod podge, you can easily peel off just the top layer (without the masking tape) and try for a new print.
The fabric tape does come in a narrower width but I had the wide one handy. I measured and cut it in half width-wise too.
Fabric tape is easier to measure, as it comes with a backing. It’s very thin, so once you peel it it’s harder to handle. Apply it on your arm, wrapping and smoothing it on the inside so that it sticks well. The fabric tape is also easier to mold and I did not need to snip it to fit. It wrapped very comfortably.
I sealed off the ends by wrapping a small strip around it. I’m not sure if I like that finishing touch or not. With the washi tape it peeled right off, but with the fabric tape it stayed tight.
As you can see, I tried it on my glasses as well. It’s a great way to add a little temporary style if you’re a glasses-wearer like me.
I had lots of fun makign it and these chic and spunky prints make it so much more exciting!
M had fun modeling them too!
Do you have any other ideas to decorate sunglasses? Share them in the comments below!
Note: this post was originally published May 14, 2015 and was updated May 2, 2017.
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