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Hydro Dipping with 2X Rust-Oleum

Hydro dipping a lightbulb in blue paint

Hydro Dipping, also called Water Image transfer printing, is the process of transferring an image to an object via water.

Valu Hydro Dip light bulb ornament

Hydro Dip planter

Hydro dip skull

You can hydro dip any item with a nonporous surface - all you need are a few simple supplies!

  • A tote to hold water (size depends on size of object dipping)
  • 2X Rust-Oleum Spray Paint and Primer
  • Your choice of what to Hydro Dip
  • Latex gloves
  • Paint stirring stick

Step 1 - Using your 2x Rust-Oleum Spray Paint prime the item that you are going to Hydro Dip. Allow that to dry.

Step 2 - Fill your tote with lukewarm water. How much? At least 1½ times the depth of the item you are dipping.

Hydrop dip instructions step 1

Hydrop dip instructions step 2

Hydrop dip instructions step 3

Step 4 -Using a glove, take your item to be dipped and slowly dip it into the water. Tip - Look for the best colored area to dip it into. As you dip it into the water, the paint will stick to the item.

Step 5 - After dipping it into the water, it's IMPORTANT to hold the item underwater until you use a paint stick to push away any remaining spray paint on the top of the water. If not, as you remove it from the water it will stick as you remove it.

Step 6 - Let it dry and you're done! If desired, after it's fully dried, you can use a clear coat spray to protect your work of art.

The possibilities are endless what can be Hydro Dipped - Pictured here we dipped light bulbs to use as Christmas Tree ornaments and outside clay pots to have ready for the spring planting season.

Valu Home Center Team photo