Project Note: Before you start painting, wash and dry your ceramic mug. This will remove any smudges or dirt that might keep your paint from sticking.

We made a pattern to help you with this project. Click here to download it, then cut out the shape. Set it aside until Step 4.

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Next, you’ll paint a band of color around the center of the mug. To make sure your lines are straight, use two pieces of painter’s tape (one near the bottom and one near the top) to mask off the center portion.

TIP: Once the tape is fastened on, use your fingers to press down the edges, so no paint can seep underneath.

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Next, use a brush to paint the center band (in between the two strips of tape) with the Turquoise color that’s included in your mug kit. Let it dry, then paint on a second coat and let that one dry, too.

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Time to transfer your pattern onto the mug! To do this, cut out a piece of transfer paper that is slightly larger than your pattern. Tape it to the mug where you want to transfer your bear pattern (in the center of the painted band), with the graphite side facing down. Then, tape the bear design over the graphite paper, with the design facing you.

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Now, use your pencil to trace over the bear shape only, not the word. Press down as you trace, to make sure the image transfers to the mug. Remove both the pattern and the transfer paper and set them aside for Step 7.

TIP: Before you remove them, take a peek underneath and make sure the bear’s outline has transferred correctly.

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Use the yellow paint that is included in your mug kit to paint the bear shape. Let it dry, then continue adding coats until the yellow is evenly covered. (This will take several coats, so just hang in there!)

TIP: Remember to always let your paint dry completely in between coats.

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Tape your transfer paper (graphite side down) and bear shape (facing up) back to the mug in the same place as in Step 4. Trace over the word “Papa” and then remove the transfer paper and pattern.

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Finally, paint the letters with the Turquoise paint. Again, it may take a few coats. That’s it! Just let the paint dry once more and you’re ready to wrap your wonderful gift!

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Papa Bear Ceramic Mason Jar Mug

Instructions

ADDITIONAL MATERIALS