Hi friends, Michaela here sharing an easy Fall DIY you can finish in an afternoon. I’m a big fan of everything autumn — the boots, cozy sweaters and puffy jackets — and I love settling in with a warm drink when the weather turns crisp.
One of my favorite rituals this time of year is lighting a fragrant candle and curling up on the sofa with a cup of tea, hot cider or cocoa. A simple handmade mug with gold polka dots makes that moment feel extra special. It’s an inexpensive project that looks polished and makes a lovely gift.
Here’s how to create your own polka dot mugs.
Materials:
- Plain white mugs (available at many discount and home stores)
- Glass paint in your chosen color (I used Martha Stewart Crafts gold)
- Circular sponge brushes or small round sponge stamps
- Oven for curing the paint
- Soft cloth and rubbing alcohol for cleaning the surface
Directions:
- Wash and dry the mug thoroughly. Wipe the area you’ll paint with a bit of rubbing alcohol to remove oils and fingerprints.
- Dip the circular sponge brush into the glass paint and stamp evenly spaced dots around the mug. Practice on paper first to get a consistent size and amount of paint on the sponge.
- Allow the paint to dry for the time recommended on the paint bottle.
- Place the mug on the top rack of a cold oven, then set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 minutes to cure the paint.
- Turn the oven off and let the mug cool completely inside before removing it.
- Wait 24 hours before washing. After curing and resting, the mug is safe for gentle dishwasher cycles, depending on the paint manufacturer’s instructions.
These Kate-Spade-inspired mugs make sweet hostess or birthday gifts and are a simple, rewarding craft for kids and adults alike. The glass paint comes in many shades, so you can personalize each cup. I’m still on a gold kick — it feels festive and warm for the season.
Once your mug is cured, you’ll probably want to test it right away. I like a simple hot apple cider in mine — it’s quick, comforting, and perfect for cool afternoons.
Apple Cider Recipe:
Pour your favorite apple juice into a small pot and warm gently on the stove. Add two cinnamon sticks (broken in half), a pinch of allspice, a few whole cloves, and strips of orange peel for brightness. Heat until steaming but not boiling, then ladle into your new mug and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Enjoy your warm drink and Happy October!
Have you been following my annual 31 Days of Falling for Fall series?
Today is Day Twenty-Two of the series — a season full of simple projects and cozy inspiration. If you try this mug idea, it makes a thoughtful handmade gift or a fun weekend craft to welcome the cooler days.