Learn how to make cabochons using clear glass gems, printed pictures, and Mod Podge. These are perfect for jewelry projects and so easy.
We get about five minutes into October when I realize I’m going to be in a time crunch to make gifts for the holiday season. It’s like a tornado or Godzilla – I can just see it coming!
So what I try to do is tackle something that is going to be reasonable . . . not too hard or overwhelming . . . but will still make an impact, and the recipient will enjoy.
This year, I’m all about those cabochons. It’s not a secret I love decoupage jewelry, and these are right up my alley. Plus I can personalize to what the recipient likes.
Do you want a plump pug cabochon necklace? How about Grumpy Cat? I can deliver. If you want to learn how to make cabochons, read the tutorial below. Then scroll down and watch the video. Enjoy!
Cabochon DIY
Equipment
Materials
- Glass domes
- Magazine pages or graphics
- Mod Podge
Instructions
- Select an illustration to match the size of your cabochon.
- Apply a layer of Mod Podge to seal the print. This will protect the print once you glue it to the cabochon. Leave to dry for 15 minutes.
- Place the cabochon on the print, and trace the outline.
- Cut out the print just within the trace line. You want the print to be a fraction smaller than the cabochon itself.
- Apply a layer of Mod Podge on both the glass cabochon and the print. Cover the surfaces entirely.
- While the Mod Podge is still fluid, place the print to the back side of the cabochon. Smooth thoroughly and wipe away excess medium that comes out the sides.
- Turn the cabochon over and leave to dry. The Mod Podge will dry clear.
- Cover the back side of the illustration with a layer of Mod Podge, to seal the print. Let dry.
- Use a wet towel to remove Mod Podge from the cabochon.
- Allow to dry for 24 hours before putting into a jewelry setting.
Video
Notes
If you enjoyed this craft idea, I’d love for you to check out these other projects:
Your guide shows gluing the photo to the back of the cabochon and then gluing the whole thing into the pendant tray. Would it make a difference if I glued the photo into the pendant tray and then glue the cabochon over the top of it? It seems to me that it might be easier to line the photo up in the tray than it will be on the back of the cabochon.
Also, what is the purpose of letting a layer of modge podge dry on the photo before applying a second layer to glue it?
Hi Joseph! First question, you can do it your own way! Either one works depending on what you find easier. Second question, this was a guest project so I can’t ask why they did it here, because you’re right, it’s not necessary here. HAVING SAID THAT, it can help prevent wrinkles on thinner materials, help you cut fabric without fraying, and help keep the ink from bleeding if it’s a printout from your computer. So there is value to doing it and it was probably just habit 🙂 Magazines don’t need it though. Their pages are thick enough and the ink is usually very water resistant!
That’s awesome. But I want to ask you this. What is the process of gluing together a cabochon glass dome to a…cabochon glass dome? You will ask why right? Well I would like to place dry flowers in side and I don’t want to do it with resin as I have loads of class cabochon sitting…can you help me with that? I tried lactate, resin, liquid glass and nothing worked. It was very unclear and looked dirty.
Hi. This was very helpful. Thank you. But the one thing i find is that the modge podge seems to leaves “streaks” or little brush lines. (I apply with a paint brush. Should i be applying it with something else?). If you want i can send you photos of what I’m talking about. It’s not a big big deal. I think they still turn out okay, but i think the paint brush lines are slightly visible.
Thank you.
@stew, I use a old gift card to swipe a thin layer of mod podge and it works great!