Hello Birdie! Hand Painted Mugs

Today I'm introducing you to one of my favorite crafts...hand-painted mugs!  Last weekend I finished an order of 25 mugs for a baby shower, and I just have to share this so you can try it too...

{Hand Painted Mugs}

Supplies:

-Ceramic or stone mug ($2-$3 at HomeGoods)

-Black & red ceramic paint (Porcelaine 150 brand recommended. Available at some Michaels, JoAnns, or on Etsy)

-Paint brush (or other tool with round edge)

First, use the black paint marker to create the main branch.  I try to create a wavy line that starts thick at the bottom of the mug and winds around the mug, getting thinner as it goes.

Next, create side branches that stem off the main branch.  {Troubleshooting} at the bottom has tips.

Now add a little birdie!  I'm horrible at drawing (no really, you should see me playing Draw Something!!!), so I appreciate how easy these birds are...oval body, two lines for the tail, two lines for the legs, and a little triangle beak.

Now the fun part!  Open a jar of red paint and dip the end of the paint brush.

Gently touch the paint against the branches to create tiny cherry blossoms.

Let the paint sit for 4 hours.  Then place the mug in the oven (turned off), close the oven, set to 350 degrees, and remove after 30 minutes.  This allows the mug to gradually heat up as the oven warms up.  Now you are free to microwave, wash in the dishwasher, and most importantly start the day of right, drinking from your custom mug! 

 These are so fun to personalize with a name, note, or favorite quote!

Perfect for your favorite LOVE BIRDS!

Or change it up and decorate a platter! 

If you try it please send me a picture...I would love to see your creative ideas :)

{Troubleshooting}

Good news: If you mess up, just use a damp paper towel to wipe off whatever you don't want, dry it, and start over!  Also, those pens can be feisty, especially at first! I keep a piece of scrap paper nearby to help with ink flow - feel free to shake/push down on the pen until you have the right consistency.