I love a project that turns something destined for the recycling bin into something useful and unexpectedly polished, and this fall soap dispenser set does exactly that. With three old glass liquor bottles, a little paint, and a set of pump tops, you can make a coordinated countertop trio that looks right at home in a kitchen or guest bath for autumn.
As someone who spends plenty of time in the kitchen, I’m always drawn to practical décor—the kind that earns its keep. This project is ideal if you like easy upcycling, want a seasonal touch that isn’t overly fussy, or need a handmade gift set that feels thoughtful without being complicated. The finished bottles can hold hand soap, dish soap, and lotion, or any other liquid essentials you use every day.
Materials
3 empty glass liquor bottles, 16 to 25 ounces each, labels removed
Instructions
1. Soak the bottles in warm soapy water for 20 to 30 minutes, then peel off the labels and scrub away any glue residue.
2. Wash the bottles thoroughly, let them dry, and wipe the outside with rubbing alcohol so the primer and paint adhere cleanly.
3. Lightly sand the outside surface of each bottle with 220-grit sandpaper, focusing on glossy spots, then wipe away the dust.
4. Tape off the bottle neck threads if needed, then spray on a light, even coat of primer and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s directions.
5. Apply a second light coat of primer if the glass still looks slick or patchy, and allow it to dry fully before painting.
6. Paint the first bottle burnt orange, the second warm cream, and the third deep brown or matte black using foam brushes and thin coats for a smoother finish.
7. Let the first coat dry, then add a second coat to each bottle; use a third coat only if the color still looks streaky.
8. Add simple fall details with the small brush, such as a gold band near the shoulder, a few tiny leaf shapes, or a softly brushed accent around the base.
9. Once the paint is completely dry, spray or brush on a clear matte or satin sealer to protect the finish, then let the bottles cure fully.
10. Trim the dip tubes on the pump tops so each reaches close to the bottom of its bottle without bending.
11. Use a funnel to fill the bottles with soap, lotion, or dish liquid, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
12. Screw on the pump tops, wipe the bottles clean, and arrange the finished set together on a tray or beside the sink.
Variations & Tips
Color swap: If you prefer a softer fall palette, try sage green, muted terracotta, and ivory instead of the classic orange-and-brown combination.
Finish choice: Matte paint gives these bottles a modern, pottery-inspired look, while satin sealer makes them easier to wipe clean around a busy sink.
Bottle selection: Choose bottles with similar heights for a matched set, or vary the shapes slightly if you want a more collected, eclectic look. I find that sturdy, straight-sided bottles are easiest to paint evenly.
Pump fit: Before painting, test each pump top on each bottle so you know the threads fit properly. This saves frustration later, especially when working with repurposed bottles from different brands.
Use ideas: In the kitchen, I like one bottle for hand soap, one for dish soap, and one for lotion. In a guest bath, the trio works nicely for hand soap, body lotion, and mouthwash if you label them with small hanging tags nearby rather than on the bottles.
Cleaning tip: Hand-wash only after painting, and avoid soaking the finished bottles for long periods so the decorative finish stays intact through the season.
Gift version: Pair the set with a small tray, a dish brush, or a folded hand towel for a practical housewarming or hostess gift that feels much more custom than store-bought décor.