Painting pottery is fun, an inexpensive way to renovate an old item, to create personalized gifts or centerpieces. Read these steps if you want to learn everything you need to paint pottery at home.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Painting the Plates
Step 1. Choose the paint
Depending on how you want to use the ceramic, there are a few slightly different approaches to choosing the paint, each of which will have a different yield in terms of appearance, durability and use.
- Normal paint (for example acrylic) together with a transparent cover will give you shiny plates, very beautiful to look at but not safe to use.
- A cold ceramic pen varnish allows you to create quick designs and is safe in case of contact with food, but it won't last long if you use the item often.
- A hot ceramic paint will give the design shine while maintaining food contact safety, and in most cases it will last for years.
Step 2. Do you prefer the brush or the pen?
Once you have established the type of color to use, buy a brush specifically for what you want to reproduce or a pen. A paint pen allows you to draw as if you were using a marker - it's perfect for words and lines, but it's not very flexible.
- A thin brush is perfect for making flowers, buds and branches.
- A flat tip brush is ideal for geometric work, straight lines and for filling in spaces. If you want to reproduce a stencil, you will need this type of brush.
Step 3. Buy everything you need
Buy decorative plate varnish, painter's tape if you want to make lines or corners. An apron and disposable gloves are always needed.
Step 4. Paint the plate
After washing and drying the plate perfectly, apply the color to make your creation. The specifics of this step vary depending on the color but, to get started, you will need to do the design with hot paints or acrylics. Use a thin brush.
- To paint flowers, buds and leaves, use the fine-tipped brush. Apply a drop of color to the base of the bud or leaf and blend it with the brush towards the chosen direction.
- For straight lines on a plate or bowl, apply tape above and below the area where you want to make the line. Use a ruler to make sure the space between the tape bands is even. Paint the free space with firm brush strokes, using the flat brush, then remove the tape.
- For an unusual motif that recalls the artistic movement of the early 20th century, De Stijl tries to reproduce rectangular sections, crossing the ribbon and filling each section with different colors. Leave one or two sections natural for a geometric-optical effect.
- The acrylic paint can be reapplied when the first coat has dried for an even more brilliant effect. This is usually not necessary with other ceramic paints.
Step 5. If necessary, draw with a cold pen
You'll find them in most home improvement and paint stores, but also online. They are lightly soiled and perfect for children's parties and other group activities.
- Draw, write, or scribble just like you would with a regular colored marker. The dye will dry quickly once applied. If the pen doesn't seem to work, angle the tip and shake it gently.
- Try to make a one-color background; let it dry, then add the other colors to reproduce a cheerful image.
- Be sure to add your signature behind the plate so everyone will know who created it.
Step 6. Work in an airy environment
Paint in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, especially if you use acrylic paint. The fumes can be unpleasant and aggravate existing ailments, such as allergies.
Step 7. Smooth the surface
If the plates seem too shiny to hold the tint, consider sanding them gently with an ultra-fine sandpaper such as 1800 or 2000. Don't apply too much pressure and try to sand perfectly.
- The sandpaper creates micro-abrasions in the glossy coating of the plate, allowing the paint to adhere more easily.
- Don't scratch the coating too much. A light sanding is more than enough.
Step 8. Add a clear finish to the acrylic paint
If you choose to paint a decorative plate with acrylic dye, allow it to dry thoroughly before applying a coat of clear acrylic enamel. Let it dry, then apply a second coat.
The dish will be very shiny and good looking but will not be suitable for eating. Display it on a shelf or give it away. Remember to say it's just for beauty
Step 9. Cook the paint
If you choose to paint a plate with a special ceramic color, find a place to let it dry for at least 24 hours. When it is completely dry, bake it in the preheated oven according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Always stick to instructions. If the steps do not coincide with those described in this guide, follow the specific directions for the product.
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The dish will look brilliant and perfect. This method also allows you to use it for food. Choose an expensive dishwasher-safe ceramic paint. The design will remain intact over the years.
While you can technically use the dishwasher, as with all painted dishes, consider the hand wash option. It is more delicate and will make the dish last longer
Step 10. Use the plate painted with cold dye
If you have chosen pens to decorate your dish, once dry it is ready to use. No other steps are needed.
You will be able to eat safely on your plate, but with time and the use of utensils, teeth and other sharp objects, the paint will flake. And it won't be washed in the dishwasher
Method 2 of 3: Paint a Ceramic Tile
Step 1. Recognize your limitations
Ceramic tiles - which line the kitchen, bathroom or laundry room - can be painted, but the process is painful enough to no longer seem like a hobby. Also there are limits on how long you can paint and how long it can last.
- Establish an action plan. If you want to paint tiles, you will have to avoid using the environments they are in for a while. So, plan not to use the bathroom or kitchen.
- Paint the right tiles. If they are in heavily used and humid rooms, there is no need to proceed as your creation won't last long. You can choose to repaint the tiles of a little used environment or accept that your work does not last long.
Step 2. Gather the necessary materials
Painting ceramic tiles requires more patience and preparation than any of the other methods described in this guide, but there should be no problem if you follow the instructions. Get the following things:
- Fine sandpaper, 220 or 240
- Electric orbital sander
- Heavy gloves, goggles and mask
- Abrasive powder, such as Ajax or Calinda
- Bleach, for any molds
- Highly adhesive primer, specific for glossy surfaces
- High quality paint or epoxy
- Clear urethane or epoxy gloss
- A wide brush and / or roller
- Rags and a vacuum cleaner
Step 3. Clean and smooth the tiles
The first thing to do is to be sure that the tiles are ready to be painted. Wear a mask and goggles to prevent dust from getting into your eyes and airways. If you are concerned that 220 paper will sand too deeply, you can use a thinner one. Remember that the process will take longer in this case.
- Start with the abrasive cleaner. Thoroughly degrease the area to be repainted until it is completely clean, then dry it.
- Disinfects. With a clean cloth, prepare a bleach solution and wipe the tiles again to kill mold.
- Sand the tiles. Place the sandpaper on the orbital sander and start sanding the tiles carefully. The aim is to remove the polish without damaging the ceramic.
Step 4. Apply the primer
Just like the lamp, the cleaned ceramic needs to be protected with an even coat of primer.
- Choose the right primer. Apply an oil-based one to ensure water resistance.
- Apply two coats. Once the first is dry, apply the second coat. Let it dry well (for a couple of hours), then smooth the surface with ultra fine paper such as 1500 or 2000 and remove any irregularities.
Step 5. Choose the paint
Now that the tiles are ready, it's time to color them. Choose the best paint you can afford. There are three options:
- Epoxy paint is glossy and lasts a long time, but it is the most expensive.
- The acrylic one, not recommended for areas where there is a lot of movement, is easier to use and is less expensive.
- Acrylic paint gives a soft and supple appearance, but does not have a long service life.
Step 6. Paint using a brush
A wide flat tip brush is ideal. Start with a thin layer, let dry then add a second. The result will be better than with a single thick coat.
- To learn how to properly apply the paint lightly, refer to the instructions on the can.
- To get a geometric pattern, cut out shapes with masking tape before starting; use a laser level and ruler to make precise stripes on the tiles. When you're done painting, remove the tape (before applying the finish) to check the design.
Step 7. Finish the job
Wait 2 or 3 days for the paint to dry completely, then apply the polishing coat. It will take two hands. Let the first coat dry, testing it by touch. Choose between an urethane and epoxy polish. They both have advantages:
- Urethane is less expensive, quick to apply and easier to use. However, it doesn't hold up much.
- Epoxy is tough, shiny and essentially permanent, which is why it's the best choice for high-traffic areas or areas that get wet often. However, it is more expensive and must be applied with extreme care.
Step 8. Clean
Throw the card. Vacuum to remove dust and debris. Clean and put away what's left. Let it dry well. Remember, it takes at least 2 or 3 days.
Method 3 of 3: Painting a Ceramic Lamp
Step 1. Get what you need
To repaint an old ceramic lamp you will need to follow four basic steps: sand down, primer, paint and polish. For painting, the best choice is spray paint. Many recommend Krylon brand paint which has bold colors and is durable, but other brands are fine too. In any case, buy the following things:
- Mask and protective goggles
- Electrician's tape
- Ultrafine sandpaper, at least 1800
- A sander
- Old newspapers and blotting paper
- A neutral-colored, general-purpose spray primer, such as dark gray
- Glossy or semi-glossy spray paint, color of your choice
- Protective transparent spray enamel
Step 2. Sand the lamp
Unless you need to paint an unfinished lamp, the first thing to do is wipe the surface with sandpaper to smooth it out so the primer sticks well. To prevent dust from filling your nose and mouth, use a face mask.
- Remove the lampshade. Remove other parts of the lamp that will not be painted. If the light bulb is still there, remove that too.
- Smooth. Put the sandpaper on the sander and pass it over the entire surface of the lamp, applying minimal pressure.
- Don't overdo it. To the touch, the surface should not be rough or uneven. Sanding helps the primer to adhere better.
Step 3. Clean up
Once you have finished sanding, wipe a sheet of absorbent paper and / or mild detergent over the lamp. Remove all created dust and other impurities.
Step 4. Apply the primer
Once sanded and cleaned, the lamp is ready for primer. Move outside or to your garage. Put on your goggles and face mask. Since you will be using a spray paint that can penetrate mucous membranes and irritate them, make sure the room is well ventilated.
- Prepare the lamp. Place it on a layer of newspapers that is wider than the base, so you will be able to clean up better. Use electrician's tape around the cord or other parts that could otherwise get stained with paint, including those under the base.
- Apply the first coat of primer. Spray evenly and with a steady hand. Once applied, let it dry for at least 3 to 4 minutes. There is no need to wait more than 10 minutes.
- Apply the second coat of primer. This way, you'll have an even, smooth base to spray paint on. You should have covered the previous color as well.
Step 5. Paint
Give the primer about 30 minutes or even an hour to dry, then start painting. For a great look, apply more than one coat of paint.
First hand. With smooth movements, apply a layer of paint to the lamp. The primer will likely change the color slightly. If you do more than one pass, you will be able to have a brighter and more uniform result
Step 6. Wait for it to dry
Depending on how long you let it dry, you will be able to pass a second coat quickly, but the average estimate is about an hour and a half or two. It is advisable to wait at least an hour before proceeding with the second coat of paint.
In reality, spray paint takes a day to completely dry, but you don't need to wait that long between coats
Step 7. Apply second and third coats as needed
Repeat the steps described above for at least two more times. Each layer must be thin.
Step 8. Apply the gloss layer
Once the paint is dry, apply the spray sealer. For a professional look, choose a glossy and clear one.
- As for the dye, when the first coat has dried you can pass another one to maximize the shine.
- If you are satisfied, protect the lamp from the elements and let it dry overnight. Don't touch it if you can.
Step 9. Final touches
The next morning, remove the tape from the lamp and take it indoors. Reassemble it to complete it.
Don't feel compelled to use everything that originally made it up. Look for alternative stores that you like
Advice
- Remember to use non-toxic paint for anything that comes into contact with food. Most ceramic paints are non-toxic, but check the label to be sure.
- When painting the details, start with the background, let it dry and then work on the details with a thin brush.
