How to Decorate Your Own Porcelain Mug
Porcelain is a type of clay that is prized for its fine texture and white color. Many types of dishes and cups are made from porcelain. You may want to decorate your own porcelain pieces to make a custom set of dishes or cups. This makes a fun project to do with friends. Paint is the easiest way to decorate a porcelain mug. Glazed, fired mugs are the easiest type to find and use.
Things You'll Need
- Porcelain mug
- Masking tape
- Grease pencil
- Porcelain paints
- Paintbrushes
- Paper towel
Instructions
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Clean the mug thoroughly. Any dirt, residue or even oils from your hands can inhibit paint from sticking well. You may want to wear gloves as you clean and during the painting process.
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Cover the lip of the mug with masking tape. Although you can find non-toxic paints for porcelain, it is still better if your design does not touch the lips of whoever is drinking from the mug, for the additional safety of both the drinker and the design. Do not paint inside of the mug.
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Draw your design onto the mug using a grease pencil. You can also make stencils or use masking tape to cover up areas that you want left unpainted. Masking tape makes it easy to paint stripes. It is not necessary to draw in the design, but drawing it first is very helpful if you are worried about placement of the design or want to use a complex design.
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Paint in the design with your brushes. If the design allows, fill in one color at a time, like a paint-by-number, to keep the design clear and neat. Wait for the paint to start drying before moving on to each new color or adding any details. If you make mistakes, wipe them away quickly with a damp cloth or paper towel. You can use a tube of porcelain outliner paint to add details rather than using a thin brush, if desired, as you may find it easier.
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Allow the paint to dry completely. If possible, it is best to wait a full day before adding additional coats of paint. Some paints must be baked in an oven before the piece is ready to use; look at the directions on your paint for specific instructions.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to choose a paint that is designed for glazed porcelain. Some paints are designed to be used underneath the glaze instead.
Use non-toxic paints if you intend to use the mug for drinking.
References
- Photo Credit PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
