Hello again fellow artists! Today, we’re jumping into the realm of painting glass with acrylics. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the process of transforming ordinary glass surfaces into vibrant works of art.
Glass is a unique medium that beginning artists often shy away from, but you can actually paint glass objects relatively easily with inexpensive acrylic paint. You’ll need to do some extra prep work, but it’s totally doable. Let’s get started!
Another phenomenal way to paint glass is by using hydro-dipping! Check out our new tutorial to explore this fun and easy dipping technique!
Can you really paint glass with cheap acrylic paint?
You absolutely can paint most glass or ceramic products with hobby store acrylic paint. That’s the awesome thing about acrylics and why we all love them. They’re inexpensive, extremely versatile, and they’re easy to acquire. Plus, the range of colors available is outstanding, saving time and frustration mixing your own palettes.
There are two major pointers, you must follow to effectively pull off glass painting though: Properly prepare your object and choose the right paint!
Choosing the Correct Acrylic Paint
When looking for the appropriate acrylic paint for painting glass, take some time to consider your object and the finished look you’re aiming for. While you may need to experiment a little on your own, here are a few quick tips:
- If you want an opaque finish, you’re going use a heavy body paint like Liquitex Heavy Body Acrylic. This brand produces artist-grade options. They’re high-performing acrylic paints at an affordable price.
- For a semi-transparent look, choose a gloss acrylic or a thinner acrylic liquid from Liquitex, FokArt, or DecoArt—all available at your local craft store. Some of these brands carry a specific formulation for glass. Shop around for a few minutes and experiment with formulations that contain glazes, sparkles, or metallics.
- To get a delicate stained glass effect, you will likely need to thin your paint with an appropriate medium. While using water for acrylics is normal for canvas painting, the one downfall of inexpensive acrylics is the lack of grip. We love acrylics! They wash off easily. They are goof-proof, and they’re usually non-toxic, but they just don’t grip like an oil or lacquer. Choose a professional acrylic medium to thicken or thin your acrylic paint without sacrificing grip. You can also try glue or Floetrol.
- Overall, acrylic enamels like these from FolkART are the best choice for painting glass. Enamel paints don’t typically need a primer, and they dry to a harder, more protective coating. However, they aren’t food-safe, so if you’re painting on a dish or cup, you’ll want to choose a safer product.
- If your art will be displayed in sunlight, consider the lightfastness of the paint you choose. Lightfastness refers to the amount of fade resistance upon exposure to UV and artificial light. Typically paints are ranked 1-8, with 8 being the highest performing. Liquitex uses a letter system with “I” equalling excellent and “V” equalling very poor.
Preparing Your Glass
Whether you’re painting a vase, premade glass windows, or a set of coffee cups, you’ll need to give the glass some grip before you can effectively paint it with common acrylics. As mentioned, if you’re using acrylic enamels, you may get by with little to no preparation. Otherwise, you’ll need to use a primer. I generally lean towards a bright Titanium White spray primer, but acrylic sprays are difficult to find. If you can’t find any, a simple coat of gesso usually does the trick.
Alternatively (or in addition), a light sanding with 150 to 180-grit sandpaper is a good idea. Roughing up the glass gives it a little more grit for the paint to adhere to.
Creating Your Masterpiece
Now that you know what it’s going to take, let’s dive into the step-by-step directions for creating a glass masterpiece. As always, I’ll give you a suggested workflow, but adapt it to fit your own preferences! Remember, art is nothing but personal expression, so do it your way, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
Materials:
Before we embark on our artistic adventure, let’s gather the necessary goodies:
- Glass Surface: Choose your canvas – it could be a glass panel, a window pane, a jar, or any other smooth glass surface.
- Acrylic Paints: Follow the recommendations above to select high-quality acrylic paints in a variety of colors to suit your artistic vision.
- Paintbrushes: Ensure you have a selection of brushes in different sizes and shapes to achieve various effects. A flat foam roller or brush works well for your gesso primer, and a smaller round brush is great for corners and the rim of jars. Typically, synthetic bristle brushes are the top choice for acrylic paints.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a palette or a few cups to mix up your acrylic paint and medium.
- Mediums (Optional): Consider using acrylic mediums such as pouring medium or glass paint medium to enhance adhesion and transparency.
- Water Container: Keep a container of water handy for cleaning your brushes.
- Paper Towels: These will be useful for blotting excess paint and cleaning up spills.
- Painter’s or Stencil Tape (Optional): If you’re painting on a window or glass pane, painter’s tape can help create clean edges and protect surrounding areas.
- Accessories: You may want to use glitter, a decorative stencil, or a ribbon to accentuate your glass piece.
- Clear Acrylic Spray: Unlike primer, your clearcoat can be oil-based. Any spray clear coat is good. However, acrylic is less toxic, so if you can find it, go for that!
Step 1: Prepare Your Glass Surface
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your glass surface with soap and water to remove any dirt, dust, or fingerprints. I like to clean mine a second time with a typical window cleaner or rubbing alcohol to remove soap residue.
Allow the glass to dry completely before proceeding. If you’re working with a window or glass pane, ensure it’s securely positioned and protected from accidental damage. You can use your stencil tape to secure it a piece of cardboard or wood.
Step 2: Prime the Surface
While acrylic paint can adhere to glass without priming, applying a primer or base coat can improve adhesion and durability, especially for smooth glass surfaces. You can use a product specifically designed for priming glass or opt for a clear acrylic gesso.
Apply the primer evenly using a brush or sponge and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: Plan Your Design
Before diving into painting, take a moment to plan your design. Consider the composition, colors, and overall aesthetic you want to achieve. You can sketch your design on paper or directly onto the glass surface using a washable marker or chalk, which can be easily removed later.
Step 4: Apply the Acrylic Paint
Now it’s time to unleash your creativity! Experiment with brushstrokes, techniques, and layering effects to achieve the desired look. I like to start thin when painting glass and work in small incremental layers. When using thick coats, eventually cracks will appear. I’ve had much better luck with thinner coats.
Acrylic paints dry quickly, so work efficiently and in small sections to avoid drying lines or streaks.
Pro Tip: If the rim of your object is wide enough, consider painting the inside of the vessel instead of the outside. For instance, paint the inside of the Mason Jar. This slight change in technique adds to the luminosity of the paint, keeps it protected from outside pollutants (and children’s sticky fingers), and prevents chipping.
Step 5: Build Layers and Add Details
One of the most common mistakes when painting glass with acrylic is a streaky look. Brushstrokes are inevitable on some pieces, but most of them can be prevented by using a soft-bristed brush and working in layers.
As you paint, gradually build up layers of color and texture to create depth and dimension in your artwork. Use dry brushing, stippling, or sponging to achieve interesting effects. Take your time to add details and refine your design, paying attention to highlights, shadows, and fine lines. If you don’t like it, carefully wipe it off with a wet wipe, or let it dry and scrape it off with an Exacto knife.
Step 6: Allow for Drying Time
Once you’ve completed your painting, allow it to dry completely before handling or displaying it. Acrylic paint dries relatively quickly, but thicker layers may require additional drying time. Be patient and avoid touching the surface until it’s fully cured to prevent smudges or smears. I like to let mine dry for at least 4-6 hours before applying a seal acrylic.
Step 7: Seal the Project (Optional)
To protect your artwork and enhance its longevity, consider sealing it with a clear acrylic sealer or varnish. Choose a product designed for use on acrylic paintings and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Sealing your masterpiece will also enhance the vibrancy of the colors and provide a glossy or matte finish, depending on your preference.
Again, you’ll want to do thin layers. Spray paint should be applied at a distance of at least six inches in a sweeping motion across the object. I always do at least two coats, but gauge your coatings related to where your object will be placed and how much handling of it will occur.
Curing Alternative: You can also choose to seal your acrylic-painted glassware with heat. This involves baking the dish in the oven. Allow your painted glass to dry for at least one hour. Then, place in a cold oven on a baking dish. Turn the oven on, and set to 350 degrees. Bake at 350 for thirty minutes.
Do not preheat the oven. Glass must be heated slowly. Turn off the oven and allow the glass to cool before removing. Not all glass and acrylic paint is oven-safe, so check your paints before choosing this method.
Do sealers and varnishes confuse you? Well, don’t be ashamed, there are so many out there, and it can be overhwelming in the varnish aisle. If you need help with getting that perfect glossy finish, take a look at “Clear Coat for Acrylic Painting: Find the Perfect Seal for Your Pour.”
Step 8: Display and Enjoy!
Once your painting is dry and sealed, it’s time to display it proudly for all to admire! Whether you hang it in a window to catch the sunlight, place it on a shelf as a decorative accent, or gift it to a friend, your painted glass masterpiece is worthy of display!
Painting Glass Ideas
When it comes to painting glass, the world is your oyster. While some painted vases and stained glass pieces can be fairly expensive, with these innovative craft ideas, you can fill your home or studio with masterpieces on a budget.
Painting glass offers a great opportunity to reuse and repurpose. Most thrift stores are filled to the brim with fun jars, bottles, picture frames, and glass figurines. Go peruse your nearest stores!
1. Faux Tiffany Lamp
Tiffany lamps are a vintage staple, and they can cost a pretty penny. However, if you have an 80s model chandelier or lamp, they are easily turned into a faux stained glass work of art that resembles the famous alternatives!
2. Winter Festivities
When the cold months roll around, grab some white acrylic and spend a cold evening painting dots and snowflakes in your windows, mimicking the snowy landscape.
3. Upgraded China
If you want a cabinet full of unique plates, cups, and bowls, but can only afford the white ones from Dollar General, then use these tips to create your own high-end designs on a dime!
4. Repurposed Mirror
Large pieces of art are not cheap, and framing certainly isn’t. However, you can often find pre-used windows or large mirrors for relatively cheap in second-hand stores. Grab one with a frame that you like, and start creating!
5. Signature Christmas Ornaments
Christmas ornaments seem to get more expensive every year too. I love buying a few packs of clear, round ornaments in different sizes. I paint some with our initials, meaningful phrases, or with the Magic Marble hydro-dipping technique. If you fill a few with faux snow, and leave a few clear. I love the look it creates!
Shouldn’t you be glass shopping?
Alright, alright… you’ve got all the info you need to create some truly epic acrylic-painted glass projects, so what are you still doing here? Get out there and pick your muse, collect your paints, and get going! Painting glass with acrylic is a bit addictive, so we suggest you go ahead and buy a few of those vintage bottles or the whole case of Mason jars.
Until next time…Happy painting!
