Learn Glass Painting

 
Art-based hobbies can be wonderfully engaging and reveal a hitherto unknown creative side of ourselves. Glass painting is not rocket science, but it offers challenges too, just what a boring weekend calls for. Here's a quick how-to on the basics of glass painting:

Glass painting supplies for beginners:

• Glassware (flat glass, vases, wine goblets, jugs)
• Glass paints
• Paint palette
• 4-5 brushes (artificial or natural hair)
• Optional: Sponge, stencils, paper patterns

Getting started with glass painting

Select a glass piece with shapes and lines that appeal to you. Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth. Many beginners prefer starting off with ready-made paper patterns (free glass painting patterns are widely available on the Internet). Position the pattern behind the glass surface to be painted.Using a clean, dry brush, place some paint onto your palette. Start filling in your pattern with small quantities of paint, making smooth, continuous strokes. Do not dab.

Painting your own design? Prepare a rough guide by sketching an outline of your glassware on paper with the desired pattern. Indicate the colours to be used in each area, this helps you decide the brush size needed for each portion.

After painting, allow the piece to dry for 24 hours. You can also bake your glass painting; place it in a cold oven, turn on the heat to the required temperature, about 325 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Remove the glass from the oven after it has cooled completely.

Fixing errors

Made a mistake? If your paint is still wet, use a cotton bud or moisten the tip of a folded tissue to quickly wipe it off. Dry paint can be scraped off gently with a razor.

Tips for effective glass painting

• Synthetic brushes let you make more brushstrokes. With natural hair brushes, more paint can be used; they also allow for a smoother finish.
• If you are painting your glassware in a single colour, try a sponge for a smooth, even effect.
• Children (and nervous adults!) could try starting out with glass paint markers, available in frosted and glossy colours. Markers are especially handy for fine detailing.
• Often, colours look different after they are applied. When buying glass paints, ask for true colour charts painted on sample glass pieces before making your choice.

If you're painting utilitarian glassware like crockery, wine glasses or jugs that will be subjected to microwaving and dishwashing, buy glass paints that adhere well. Baking painted glassware ensures greater durability.

Once you've mastered the basics of glass painting, explore a variety of glass painting products to hone your talent even further. Discover your inner artist and delight your friends with personally crafted glass painting artefacts!