Painting gingerbread houses is a fun and creative way to add a personalized touch to your holiday decor. Whether you’re upcycling a ceramic house or starting fresh with one from craft stores like Michael’s or Hobby Lobby, these simple hacks will make the process easy and enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Guide for Painting Gingerbread Houses
1. Choose a House with Smooth Surfaces
The flatter the surface, the easier it is to paint. Look for ceramic houses with minimal texture to make the design process smoother.
2. Clean the Surface
Before starting, clean the house thoroughly to remove any dust or debris. This ensures the paint adheres properly and gives you a polished finish.
3. Apply Primer and Paint
Use a primer or a spray paint that doubles as a primer for the best results. For this project, I used Krylon Satin Brown Boots spray paint. It’s the perfect shade for creating a gingerbread effect, with a satin finish that looks professional. Apply two even coats, allowing the paint to dry between applications.
4. Add Gingerbread Designs
Once the paint is dry, use a white paint pen to create intricate designs. Referencing inspiration like Pottery Barn’s gingerbread houses can help guide your patterns. Add classic details like swirls, dots, and scalloped edges to replicate the look of icing.
Additional Tips:
- Look at other hand painted gingerbread houses for design inspiration
- Be mindful of how much paint is at the tip of your pen!
- Display your finished gingerbread houses with fairy lights or on a festive mantel for maximum holiday charm.
- Happy Painting!!!
