How to Make Acrylic Paint Stay on Glass For A Lifetime (Easy)
I first started painting with acrylic paint on glass way back when I had the idea to make money hand painting Christmas baubles, customized Mason Jars for Mother’s Day and making custom 21st Birthday champagne flutes as a side gig. But it didn’t take long for people to start complaining that the acrylic paint was coming off so I have to learn really quickly how to make acrylic paint stay on glass and stay a lifetime.
One easy way to ensure that your acrylic paint remains on the glass is to bake it. Gradually heat the oven to avoid thermal shock. This can cause the glass to crack, so start by placing the painted glass item in a cold oven. Then, gradually increase the temperature to around 325°F (160°C). Allow the glass to heat for about 20-30 minutes. Once done, turn off the oven and let the glass cool down completely before removing it.
This is a great technique for small projects and can help your paint last a lifetime. Do not make the oven too hot or any light colors will darken.
Another important step is to properly prepare the surface of the glass before painting. Wear some disposable gloves so that you don’t leave any skin oil on the surface of the glass as this can actually cause cracking.
Begin filling out any outline with a fine brush tipped with your preferred color. Erase any mistakes. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create beautiful and lasting acrylic paint designs on your glass projects.
TLDR: To make acrylic paint stay on glass, follow these steps: 1) Properly prepare the glass surface by cleaning it thoroughly and applying an enamel-based primer. 2) Choose a high quality heavy body acrylic paint or acrylic specifically designed for glass painting. 3) Apply the paint using brush-on or spray paint application methods. 4) Seal the paint with an acrylic sealer, Mod Podge, or a spray-on sealer. 5) Dry and cure the paint using air drying or the baking method. 6) Add finishing touches to enhance the look of the artwork. By following these steps, you can create long-lasting and beautiful acrylic paintings on glass.
Choosing the Right Paint
When it comes to painting on glass, choosing the right paint is important for a successful result. Not all acrylic paints are suitable for glass, and selecting the wrong paint can result in a poor outcome. Here are some things to think about when picking the right paint for your glass.
Best Acrylic Paint for Glass
Acrylic paints are water-based paints and I believe they are the best paints for glass as they are easy to use and clean up. They also dry quickly and are non-toxic, making them safe to use. When selecting a paint, look for one that is opaque and lightfast. Opaque paints provide better coverage and make the colors more vibrant, while lightfast paints resist fading over time.
I prefer to use a heavy body acrylic paint as I found thinner acrylic paints require multiple coats to make them appear opaque on glass as glass allows light to shine through and also from behind.
Enamel-Based Paint vs Acrylic Enamel Paint
Enamel-based paint is a popular choice for painting on glass as it provides a glossy finish and is durable. However, it is more challenging to work with and requires a longer drying time. Acrylic enamel paint, on the other hand, dries quickly and is easier to use. It also provides a glossy finish and is more flexible than enamel-based paint, making it less prone to cracking.
Quality Paint
When it comes to painting on glass, a good quality acrylic paint is essential. Low-quality paint can result in a poor outcome, making your project look unprofessional. The best option is to invest in a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for glass painting.
Of course you don’t have to use acrylic paint as there are lots of other type of paints you can use on glass but acrylic is probably the most stable and accessible with lots of ease of use.
It also works well on all types of glass materials including glass panes, bottles, glasses, wine glasses, champagne flutes etc. basically any glass paint project.
Non-Toxic Acrylic Paint
When selecting a paint for your glass project, choose a non-toxic acrylic paint. Non-toxic paints are safer to use and better for the environment. They are also easier to clean up and less likely to cause any harm. These days most acrylic paints are non toxic so you should be safe. That said, try not to eat it anyway.
Different Types of Acrylic Paints
There are lots of different types of acrylic paints available, including heavy body, fluid, high viscosity and open acrylics. Heavy body acrylics are thick and ideal for creating textured effects, while fluid acrylics are thinner and better for layering and glazing.
Open acrylics have a longer drying time, making them easier to blend. When choosing a paint, consider the effect you want to achieve and select the appropriate type of acrylic paint.
As I stated earlier, I believe the best paint is a heavy body acrylic or a specialized glass/ceramic acrylic paint. Also be careful when adding in any mediums as these can alter the drying time and also thickness of the paints which can change how they stick to smooth surfaces like glass.
Preparing the Glass Surface
To ensure that your acrylic paint stays on your glass surface, you need to properly prepare the surface before you start painting. This will help the paint stick to your glass better and stop it from peeling or flaking off. Here are two steps you need to follow:
Cleaning the Glass Surface
The first step in preparing your glass surface is to clean it thoroughly. Use warm soapy water or mild soap and a soft cloth or sponge to wash the glass. Make sure to remove any dirt, dust, or grease that may be on the surface of the glass. Rinse the glass with clean water and let it air dry completely. By removing any grease or oils that may have come from your hands or from other products, you can increase the chances for making the acrylic paint stick.
Optionally, Sanding the Glass Surface
Some artists say you can sand the surface of the glass and apply acrylic paint directly to it. Yes this method does work but I found it a bit of an effort to sand down glass just to make the paint stick. You get much better results using an enamel based primer.
Using an Enamel-Based Primer
After cleaning the surface of the glass, I found that you get the best results when you apply an enamel-based primer to the glass as a base coat. As mentioned earlier, enamel based paint helps minimize the risk of the acrylic paint peeling or flaking off. Enamel-based primers are ideal for glass surfaces because they dry to a hard, durable finish that can withstand wear and tear.
To apply the enamel-based primer, you can use a brush or a spray can. Make sure to apply the primer evenly over the entire surface of the glass. You might need to apply a few coats of primer depending on the type of glass surface you are working with. Once you have applied the primer, let it dry completely before you start painting.
By properly preparing the surface of your glass, you can ensure that your acrylic paint will stay on the surface for a long time. This is especially important if you are working with glass bottles, glass items, glass objects, glass windows, or any other smooth glass surface. Remember to use an enamel-based primer on non-porous surfaces like glass and unglazed ceramics to help the paint adhere better.
Applying the Paint
When it comes to painting glass with acrylic paint, there are two main methods you can use: brush-on application and spray paint application. Let’s take a closer look at each of these methods.
Brush-On Application
Brush-on application is the most common method used to apply acrylic paint on glass.
Here some tips to help you get the best results:
- Use the right acrylic paint – Not all acrylic paints are created equal. Make sure you choose an acrylic paint that is specifically designed to stick to glass.
- Use a flat brush – A flat brush will help you apply the paint evenly and smoothly.
- Apply a few thin layers of paint instead of one thick layer. This will help prevent the paint from running or smudging.
- Use different colors – Acrylic paint comes in various colors, so don’t be afraid to try different shades and hues and vibrant colors.
- Experiment with different finishes – Acrylic paint comes in different finishes, such as matte, gloss, and metallic. Try different finishes to achieve the desired effect.
- Create different patterns – You can create different patterns by using different brush strokes or by using stencils.
Spray Paint Application
Spray paint application is another method you can use to apply acrylic paint on glass.
Here are a few tips to help you get the best results:
- Use the right spray paint – Not all spray paints are suitable for glass. Make sure you choose a spray paint that is specifically designed for glass.
- It’s best to apply a few thin layers of paint. This will help prevent the paint from running or smudging.
- Use different colors – Spray paint comes in various colors, so don’t be scaresd to try different shades and colors.
- Create different effects – You can create different effects by using different types of spray paint, such as opaque colors, frosted look, or stained glass effect.
- Keep direct contact – Keep the spray can at a distance of about 6-8 inches from the glass surface to avoid dripping or smudging.
Acrylic Pour Painting Application
If you have an acrylic pour painting on glass, you can try baking it to help the paint adhere better. But with acrylic pour painting you usually use an acrylic paint that has a high viscosity and it can be applied quite thickly and may have air pockets that can pop when heated. I have never baked an acrylic pour on glass. My preference is to air dry it and apply a good quality glass paint sealer.
By following these tips, you can achieve great results when applying acrylic paint on glass.
Just remember to experiment and have fun with different colors, finishes, and patterns.
Sealing the Paint
Once you have painted your design onto the glass surface, it is important to seal it properly to ensure that it stays put for as long as possible. There are several methods for sealing acrylic paint on glass, and we will cover three of the most popular ones in this section.
Using an Acrylic Sealer
One of the best sealers for acrylic paint on glass is an acrylic sealer. This type of sealer is specifically designed to work with acrylic paints and provides a clear, protective layer over the painted surface. Make sure you choose the right sealer, so look for one that is specifically labeled as an acrylic sealer.
To use an acrylic sealer, simply apply a thin, even coat over the painted surface using a brush or spray gun. Allow the sealant to dry completely before applying a second coat, if desired. Once the final coat is dry, your painted glass object will be protected from scratches, fading, and other types of damage.
Using Mod Podge
Another popular method for sealing acrylic paint on glass is to use Mod Podge. This versatile crafting product can be used as both a glue and a sealer, making it a great option for many different types of projects.
To use Mod Podge as a sealer, simply apply a thin, even coat over the painted surface using a brush. Allow the Mod Podge to dry completely before applying a second coat, if desired. Once the final coat is dry, your painted glass object will be protected and ready to use.
Using Spray-On Sealers
If you prefer a more convenient sealing method, you can also use a spray-on sealer to protect your acrylic paint on glass. These sealers come in a variety of finishes, including glossy, matte, and satin, so you can choose the one that best fits your project.
To use a spray-on sealer, simply hold the can about 6-8 inches away from the painted surface and spray a thin, even coat over the entire object. Allow the sealer to dry completely before handling or using the object.
No matter which sealing method you choose, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible results. With the right sealer, your acrylic paint on glass will stay vibrant and beautiful for years to come.
Drying and Curing
When it comes to making acrylic paint stay on glass, drying and curing are critical steps that you need to follow, especially if you are going to bake the glass to make the acrylic paint permanent.
In this section, I will discuss two methods that you can use to dry and cure your acrylic paint on glass: Air Drying and Baking Method.
Air Drying
Air drying is the most common method of drying acrylic paint on glass. It involves letting the paint dry naturally in the air without using any external heat source. The drying process can take from a few hours up to a day or more, depending on the thickness of the paint layer and the humidity of your environment.
To air dry your acrylic paint on glass, simply apply the paint to the surface and let it dry for several hours. Avoid touching the paint until it’s completely dry to avoid smudging or ruining the paint. Once the paint is dry, you can use a paper towel and rubbing alcohol to clean any smudges or mistakes.
Baking Method
Another method of drying and curing acrylic paint on glass is the baking method. This method involves placing the painted glass in a cold oven and then preheating the oven to a specific temperature. The heat from the oven will help to cure the paint and make it more durable.
My only word of warning is to test this method with a duplicate piece of glass as not all glass bakes well. I once purchased some cheap glass jars that were made of thinner glass and when the oven got hot, I am not sure if the glass had air in it but the whole thing shattered.
Shattering many hours of work I put in.
To use the baking method, follow these steps:
- After applying the paint to the glass, let it dry for a few hours.
- Place the glass in a cold oven and then preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Bake the glass for 30 minutes, including the preheat time.
- Once the 30 minutes are up, turn off the oven and let the glass cool down in the oven.
It’s important to note that the baking method may not be suitable for all types of glass. As I said earlier, some types of glass may crack or break under high temperatures so do a test run. Additionally, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the paint to fade over time, so it’s important to keep your painted glass away from direct sunlight and to use a lightfast paint.
Both air drying and the baking method are effective ways to dry and cure acrylic paint on glass. If you are less experience, try air drying first and then do some baking experiments until you find the right way that works for you.
Can you use a heat gun on glass painted with acrylic paint to make it stay?
Sounds crazy I know but if I thought of this as a quick fix solution I am sure many others have as well.
Using a heat gun on glass painted with acrylic paint is really not recommended. Heat guns produce higher temperatures than an oven that can cause the glass to crack or shatter if not used carefully. It will also apply extreme heat unevenly and instantly rather than gradually which can cause burn spots and cracking.
Instead, use the baking method in a controlled temperature environment like an oven to help the acrylic paint stay on the glass.
Can you use an air fryer to cure glass painted with acrylic paint?
I added this one as I use an air fryer when making polymer clay art. I bake them on a low heat inside my air fryer in place of using an oven as air fryers heat up faster and use less power.
That said while I have had some success with smaller glass items, using an air fryer to cure acrylic paint on glass is not recommended. Air fryers are designed for cooking food using a fan forced heated element and cannot guarantee the same gradual and controlled temperature environment that an oven does.
Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food to cook it quickly. This process may cause uneven heating and may not be suitable for curing acrylic paint on glass. Additionally, the high temperatures and rapid air circulation may cause the glass to crack or shatter.
Finishing Touches
Once you have completed painting on glass with acrylics, there are a few finishing touches you can add to make your piece look even better. In this section, we’ll cover removing mistakes and adding details to give your artwork that extra pop.
Removing Mistakes
Mistakes are bound to happen when you’re painting, but don’t worry! There are a few ways to fix them without ruining your entire piece. Here are some methods you can use:
- Paper towels: If you catch a mistake early enough, you can use a paper towel to gently wipe away the wet paint. Be sure to use a light touch so you don’t smear the paint around.
- Razor blade: For mistakes that have already dried, you can use a razor blade to carefully scrape away the paint. Be sure to use a light touch and work slowly to avoid scratching the glass.
- Chalk paint: If you have a mistake that just won’t come off, you can try covering it up with chalk paint. This will give your piece a vintage look and cover up any mistakes.
Adding Details
Adding details is a great way to make your piece stand out. Here are some techniques you can use to add those finishing touches:
- Different effects: You can create different effects by using a variety of techniques such as stippling, dry brushing, and splattering. Try different techniques to see what works for your piece.
- Life painting: To make your piece look more realistic, try life painting. This involves painting the glass from the back to give it a 3D effect.
- Colour string: For a unique look, you can use a colour string to create lines and patterns on your piece. Simply dip the string in paint and press it onto the glass.
With these finishing touches, your acrylic painting on glass will look even more unique. Remember to take your time and have fun with it. If you mess up don’t worry, you can just wash the acrylic paint off and start all over again.
How to make acrylic paint stay on glass – Wrap up!
You now know the best ways on how to make acrylic paint stay on glass. By preparing the surface properly, using the right materials, and following the right steps, you can create beautiful and long-lasting art that will impress everyone who sees it.
To start, make sure to clean your glass with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. If you need to remove any stubborn dirt or grime, you can use rubbing alcohol and warm water. Once your glass is clean, you can begin applying your acrylic paint.
To ensure that your paint stays on your glass, it’s important to use the right materials. You’ll need a primer or surface conditioner to create a surface that the paint can adhere to. You can find these materials at most hardware stores.
When applying your paint, use straight, even strokes to avoid any visible brushstrokes on your piece. If you want a textured effect, you can intentionally use uneven strokes. Be careful when painting near any areas that you have taped up.
Finally, if you plan on using your painted glass outdoors, make sure to let it dry and cure for at least 72 hours before exposing it to the elements. This will ensure that your paint stays on your glass for as long as possible.
By following these steps, you too can create beautiful and unique pieces of art that will last a lifetime. So go ahead, grab a wine glass or any other piece of glass, and start painting!
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Joseph Colella is a frustrated artist with over 40 years experience making art (who moonlights as a certified Business Analyst with over 20 years of experience in tech). While he holds a Diploma in Information Technology, in true wasted talent style he spent years trying to get into various Art degrees from the Accademia di Belle Arti (Napoli), and failed to get into the Bachelor of Arts (Fine Arts) at the University of Western Sydney. His goal is to attend the Julian Ashton School of Art at The Rocks Sydney when he retires from full time work. In his spare time, he writes for the this blog, WastedTalentInc, where he shares practical advice on art, making art, and art materials. Joseph’s art has been sold to collectors all over the world from the USA, Europe and Australasia. He is a trusted source for reliable art and copyright/fair use advice and is committed to helping his readers make informed decisions about making them a better artist.
He also loves all things watches (ok it’s an addiction) so show him some love and visit his other website https://expertdivewatch.com
