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I don’t use glitter the fast way. I use it the way that doesn’t flake off later. Glitter has always been a classic crafting material. It’s also the herpes of the craft community, so I understand why people avoid it or reach for alternatives like glitter pens or glue. I, on the other hand, seem to be a glutton for cleaning and genuinely enjoy working with it. I can stare at glitter all day, which helps because of how I choose to use it. My goal is no fallout. Here’s what I do.

Supplies I Use for Glittering

• Glitter – I’m using glitter from Glitter Heart Co.

• The thing I want to glitter – in this case, a flocked bear
• Mod Podge – glossy finish
• Acrylic paint – I’m using black
• Paint brushes – ones you won’t be heartbroken to throw out if you forget to clean them
• Dish or bowl for Mod Podge – I use depression glass from the flea market
• Cup of water – for cleaning brushes and adjusting the mixture
• Scrap paper – to catch and reuse excess glitter
• Patience

Things to Keep in Mind Before You Start

This isn’t a fast way to glitter without fallout. Make sure you have enough time to commit to the process. You’ll need time for the glitter to settle and for the Mod Podge to fully dry.

Even if you have a dedicated crafting space, it’s still a good idea to work on scrap paper. I use printer paper I’ve already messed up. It makes it easy to funnel excess glitter back into the container, and you can toss it when you’re done.

If you’re working on something that’s already a solid, even color, you can probably skip painting. In this case, I’m painting everything black because my bears are orange and different shades of brown. If I laid glitter directly on top, I’d still see color variation underneath. If you’re unsure, just prep it.

I use a glass vessel for my Mod Podge because it’s easier to clean. If I forget and it dries, I can just peel it out and wash as usual. It also avoids wasting disposable plates.

Prep Your Subject (In This Case, My Bears)

It’s a good idea to prep or prime whatever you’re working on. I painted all the bears black with acrylic paint. I usually use white, but after one pass it was clear even a second coat wouldn’t fully hide what I wanted covered. Since most of the glitter I’m using is darker, black made more sense.

Because these are flocked, I couldn’t just brush over them. It was more of a paint and pat motion to get the coverage I wanted.

My Mod Podge Mixture

Before applying Mod Podge, you want to adjust the consistency. I mix mine with a bit of water, not the whole bowl, just a small area where I dip my brush. Think of it like mixing paint. A little at a time until it feels right.

If it’s too watery, you risk drips and glitter running. Too thick, and the glitter can clump and take longer to dry. If I go too far, I’ll offload some onto a paper towel and adjust from there.

First Layer of Mod Podge

Once the mixture feels right, I start applying it to one section. In this case, the head of the bear. This lets me hold the piece without getting everything on my hands.

I work quickly so the Mod Podge doesn’t start drying before I’m ready.

First Layer of Glitter

As soon as the Mod Podge is on, I move straight to glitter. I sprinkle it on quickly and evenly. When I’m done, I don’t shake off the excess right away. I set the piece down and walk away.

This part matters. I want the glitter to have time to adhere and settle.

After a few minutes, I gently tap off the excess onto scrap paper. You can also use a soft, fluffy brush to lightly remove loose glitter. Don’t force it. Just a light dusting.

Sealing the First Layer of Glitter

I apply the Mod Podge mixture over the glitter using a patting or pressing motion, not brushing. This helps avoid turning it into a thick, clumpy paste.

Then I let it dry completely.

This layer shouldn’t be thick. None of the layers should be.

It’s tempting to add more glitter right away, but it’s better to let that section dry fully. That way you can handle it safely when you move on to the next area.

Once it’s dry, I repeat the same process on the next section and seal that as well.

Second Layer of Glitter

After everything dries, you’ll usually see spots you missed. That’s normal. That’s why I do a second layer.

I repeat the same steps, and that’s usually enough to even everything out. There’s something very satisfying about finishing that final layer of Mod Podge.

Optional: You can use a small fan to help speed up drying. Just don’t aim it directly at loose glitter. I know the saying is, “No Regrets,” but you don’t want to regret that.

Conclusion (No Glitter Fallout, But It Takes Time)

Letting the Mod Podge dry properly is key. If you rush it, you’ll end up with clumps.

You could use resin instead, but I find it messy and unpredictable. There’s always a chance it won’t cure, and I’m not willing to risk that after putting in this much work.

The final result still has that classic scratchy glitter texture, but without fallout. It’s a slower process, but it’s worth it.

Just wait till you see what I do with these bears.