Some of you might be here to look for the best spray paint for glass. Meanwhile, others want to know the tips and tricks when spraying paint on a glass surface. Whatever your reason is, you’ve come to the right place.
People say that painting glass is fun and easy, but it’s actually not. It can be fun, but easy? I don’t think so. It requires lots of techniques and practice. So, if you ever come across an article that provides you with some ‘easy-peasy’ tips on painting glass, I suggest you stop reading.
Long story short, let’s jump right into our article today.
The Best Spray Paint for Glass
By far, Krylon ColorMaster is the top choice of many DIY enthusiasts.
The paint is available in flat, gloss, semi-gloss, satin, and even primer finishes. It gives a nice even, no spatter spray and a strong, durable finish for not only just glass but other smooth surfaces like wood or metal.
It is said that the paint will dry in 10 minutes or less, but former buyers said that it actually took longer than that, a lot longer.
There are many colors available for you to choose, like smoke gray, rich plum, or sun yellow. Unpopular colors are also included to ensure you achieve your desired look.
The price ranges from $5 to $10, which is reasonable for spray paint can that actually does the work. What I like best about the Krylon ColorMaster is the 360-degree dial spray.
While some customers don’t find this as an advantage, I, on the other hand, love this feature. Unlike most spraying paint cans that have their nozzle focus in a certain direction, Krylon spray can adapt and rotate while in use, resulting in a faster and easier spraying process.
Read more: The Best Spray Paint For Metal
How to Spray Paint on Glass
- Step 1: Make sure your glass object is clean. Wash it with water, and again with alcohol or vinegar. Also, let it dry before you start painting. This helps remove all the dust, debris, or dampness that might interfere with the painting process
- Step 2: Shake the spraying can properly for about 1 – 2 minutes. The first couple of sprays should be on cardboards or anything that you’re willing to ruin. This ensures no splotches or messed up nozzle on your object.
- Step 3: Now that the paint is ready, let’s get to work.
You should create a thin primer coat (more like a mist) first before actually applying paint to the piece. Having a sound base that doesn’t run or drip can make a significant difference to the final result.
Let the base coat dry for about 10 – 15 minutes. - Step 4: Step back from the piece (12 – 16 inches) and start spraying slowly and steadily in sweep motion. It is essential to keep a certain distance from the object and hold the nozzle perpendicular when spraying to ensure the best effect.
Remember, even the smallest change can result in an uneven application. For example, tilt the spraying can upward or downward, or swing the can in the curve shape, can lead to unwanted result.
The number of layers applied depends on how you want the final result to turn out. If you want a transparent effect, 2 – 3 layers should be enough. On the other hand, an opaque look requires more than that; let’s say 4 – 5 coats.
Let the paint dry after each layer. The whole process might take some time, but I promise the result will be worth the wait and effort.
Wallah! Enjoy the final look.
I don’t know about you, but for me, spraying paint on glass was not easy at all. That’s why I suggested you stop reading those articles that say ‘easy-peasy ways to spray paint on glass.’ I mean, if you’re a patient person, then it might be easy for you.
Unfortunately, I am not. I messed up a few times before being satisfied with the final look of my glass vase, but I’m happy that I learned something new.
Practice makes perfect. It just takes a little practice to master the techniques mentioned. Good luck!
Spray Paint for Glass – Things to Know
To create a perfect painted glass surface with radiant effect, you will need to find the right kind of paint and have some certain techniques for spraying paint on glass.
Painting glass can be a fun activity to release stress after hours at work. Just grab any glass objects around the house or thrift a vase for like $7, and in no time, it will look like an expensive knick-knack from IKEA or HomeSense.
Kinds of Paint
There are some options available, depending on the final look you want your glass to look like.
- Enamel paint: This is specially used to paint glass. You can also use enamel paint on smooth surfaces like ceramics or metal. It is best to let the paint dry itself for a few days before having it cured in the oven (optional, depending on the brand).
Opaque or transparent enamel paint will give a solid-colored feeling; also, the color tends to change when you put items or fluid with different colors inside the painted object. - Acrylic paint: Not just glass, you can use acrylic paint on crystal or plastic. If you’re looking for something that gives similar effects to stained glass, acrylics should be your go-to option.
Unlike enamel paint, which can be let dry itself, it is better to oven cure acrylics for optimal durability. It also depends on what brand you’re using, so be sure the check the manufacturer’s label carefully.
If you want to mix colors, I suggest you use paint from the same brand to give the best effect. Blending paints (using a brush) directly on the surface is also available as if you’re painting on canvas. - Oil paint: Oil paint is not as common as the two types mentioned, but if you like working with oil, why not give it a try? You can gently wash the final piece by hand, as oil paint doesn’t easily come off in the water.
- Glass and Tile Medium: You can use glass and tile medium as a primer base before applying paint to the surface. Having a smooth base helps you paint easier, and the colors will also be more accurate once being painted.
Note: Keep in mind that ‘non-toxic’ does not mean ‘food-safe.’ Therefore, read the manufacturer’s label carefully to see if it’s safe to use on glass cookware. Non-food-safe paints should only be used for decorative purposes.
I have listed some of the conventional paints used on the glass surface above. Next, we move to the techniques of spraying paint on glass. Stay tuned!
Tips and Tricks
Finally, the part we have all been looking forward to. Check out these tips and tricks to see if you can use any of them to make the painting process more straightforward.
- If you really like the object you’ll be working on, spend some time to practice and master the steps before actual paint on it. You wouldn’t want to mess up something you really like, would you?
- If you plan to paint outside and the temperature is below 45℉ or above 75℉, you will want to postpone the procedure. Painting under direct sunlight will make the paint dry quicker. Likewise, the paint will dry slower if the weather is too cold.
- Spray paint tends to chip and flake after a while, so it’s not smart to let your spray painted glass come into contact with food.
- Do not put spray painted glass cookware in the dishwasher. Instead, use damp cloths or hand wash for better durability.
Remember, the paint will not last forever. I’m sorry to say that, but it’s the truth, even if you take extra care of them. Most spray-painted glass projects are used for decorative purposes.
If you want to paint your glass cookware, you’re much likely to use a brush (which gives a minor difference to using a spraying can). Spray painted glass projects are cheap fix to glass objects that you don’t use anymore, but still want to keep for decorating.
Bottom Line
I hope you saved yourself some useful information about spray paint for glass after reading my article.
If you have any glass pieces just lying around the house, why not give them a chance to become new decorations for your home?
I know some of you like thrifting little pieces for decorative purposes, and with a $5 can of spraying paint can, those knick-knacks will definitely succeed to get the attention of guests to your house.
Who knows? Spraying paint on glass might even become a new, fun hobby of you.
Lastly, if you have any questions, or want to share your thoughts with us, feel free to comment down below. Thank you for reading.
I am Peter Levick, with over 10 years of experience in the home improvement industry, I have become a seasoned expert in painting and paint sprayers. Through numerous DIY projects, I have developed a keen eye for aesthetics and a deep understanding of the technical aspects involved. My expertise extends to various paint sprayer systems, and I stay updated with the latest advancements. I bring a meticulous approach to every project, ensuring stunning and durable results. Clients can trust in my craftsmanship and commitment to delivering exceptional work.
