How to Turn Old Glasses Into a Snowman Ornament That’ll Melt Hearts
You know when you're about to toss something, and a little voice says, "Wait, you could totally DIY this!" That was me with these old glasses. The lenses were scratched, the frame a little bent — but I couldn’t let them go to waste.
And with Christmas right around the corner, I had snowmen on the brain.
This DIY snowman ornament from old glasses is sweet, simple, and uses items you likely already have in your craft stash.
Plus, it’s such a fun way to upcycle eyeglasses into a handmade ornament you’ll be proud to hang on the tree.
Tools and Materials:
- Old eyeglasses (prescription or sunglasses — either works!)
- Ammonia-based glass cleaner + lint-free towel
- Acrylic paints:
- White
- Black
- Orange
- Pink
- Assorted paint brushes (liner, round, and flat)
- Painter’s tape
- Fabric scrap or ribbon for the scarf
- Optional: Acrylic spray sealer (for a glossy, protected finish)
- Water cup + plate or palette
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1. Clean the Glasses
Before you paint anything, give your glasses a good clean.
Spray them down with an ammonia-based cleaner, rinse with water, and dry with a lint-free towel.
You want a smooth, grease-free surface for the paint to stick to.
2. Tape and Base Coat
Use painter’s tape to mask off the frame — this keeps your lines clean and protects the plastic.
Then brush on a thin coat of white paint across both lenses in the same direction. Don’t worry if it looks streaky — we’re building layers.
💡 Pro Tip: Let each coat dry fully before adding the next! A hair dryer on low can speed things up.
3. Crosshatch for Full Coverage
Once dry, paint a second coat in the opposite direction (horizontal if you went vertical before).
Repeat this process 2–3 times, switching directions each time.
The result? A beautifully opaque "snowy" base that even Olaf would envy.
4. Paint the Snowman's Face
Time to bring your snowman to life!
On the top lens, use black paint to make two oval eyes. Add tiny eyebrows if you're feeling fancy. Then paint a carrot nose with orange acrylic in a sideways triangle shape.
For the mouth, dip the end of your brush handle into black paint and dot it into a smiling curve.
Use a clean, dry brush dipped in pink or rosy shadow to gently swirl on some cheeks.
On the bottom lens, use black paint to create three round buttons going down the center. You can freehand it or use the end of a brush for a cleaner look. Super easy and super cute!
What’s a snowman without a scarf? Cut a small piece of holiday fabric or ribbon and tie it around the bridge of the glasses (aka the “neck”).
Optional: Seal It
If you want your snowman to last for years to come (and resist scratches), give it a quick spray with clear acrylic sealer.
Let it dry completely before hanging.
More Christmas Crafts:
How to Make a Snowman Ornament from Eyeglasses
Turning an old pair of glasses into a snowman ornament is just the kind of heartwarming, crafty project we all need around the holidays.
It’s personal, eco-friendly, and guaranteed to earn a few “awwws” when guests spot it on the tree.
Comments
Join the conversation
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I will not try this project as there are way too many people who need them so I agree DONATE them!! The Lion's Club does a great job of finding those in need.
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I will totally try this! I have 3 faux trees and all my children wear glasses. I’d like to do it now but I’ll probably have to wait until he new year to get them all new pairs so I can make one for each tree. Thanks!
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
How about donation to groups that get them to people that can’t afford glasses?
I agree- donate the glasses to the Lions Club or other needy organizations. Do we really need another “repurposed” piece of junk on the tree?