Painting on glass

It is possible to paint on glass with almost any colour that uses a lacquer or varnish as a medium. However the wash resistance and permanence of the colour will vary with the choice of materials.

For small scale projects that require non-toxic materials we recommend Liquitex Glossies, which are acrylic gloss paints that can be used on almost any hard surface.

For a more professional finish Pebeo Vitrea 160 are paints the work as low temperature glazes. The colours are fixed by heating the glass in a domestic oven. Finished items can safely be used as tableware and will tolerate careful washing.

For a quick fix, hobby glass paints such as Vitrial are coloured transparent lacquers that achieve a 'stained glass' look . They contain solvents that are not safe for children and are not permanent.

Preparation. instructions, degrease, light, solvent, brushes.

Have the correct instruction sheet for the paint you are using.

Before painting the glass should be carefully washed and rinsed with clean water.
Then degreased with methylated spirits, then allowed to dry. Arrange the work so that light illuminates the glass from behind, a light box is a very useful aid.

Make sure you have the correct solvent for the paint before you start because most glass paints dry quickly and brushes are easily ruined. Do not use dirty or poor quality brushes unless you really want a rough result. Brushes should be soft and springy.

more information Vitrea 160