How to Repaint Vintage Ceramics

Create a new look to old ceramic pieces in your home.

Ceramic has been used for thousands of years for both function and artwork, with evidence of ceramic works dating back to 10,000 BC. Ceramic continues to be a common sight in households across the nation, seen through glasses, bowls, plates and other items. When looking to update vintage pieces of ceramic, one of the quickest ways is simply repainting.

Things You'll Need

• 360- to 600-grit sandpaper
• Paintbrush
• Cloth
• Base-coat primer
• Craft acrylic paints
• Spray-on glaze

Instructions

1. Rub the vintage ceramics in a gentle circular motion with superfine sandpaper. Look for sandpaper with a grit between 360 and 600. Continue rubbing until gloss of the outer glaze is removed.

2. Use a dry paintbrush to remove debris from across the surface and inside the cracks of the ceramic.

3. Take a slightly damp cloth and gently rub the surface of the ceramic to remove any debris or dirt that remains on the piece after brushing.

4. Use a paintbrush to coat your ceramic with a base coat primer. This helps prevent the original colors from bleeding through your new paint.

5. Paint the piece your desired colors, using an appropriate paint medium for ceramic, such as craft acrylic paints. Allow the paint to dry completely for 24 hours. While acrylics dry much faster than other mediums, such as oil-based paints, it is important that the surface is completely dry before moving to the next step.

6. Coat the entire ceramic piece with a spray-on gloss glaze — or matte glaze — if you are looking for a less shiny finish. The ceramic has most likely already been fired once, so the glaze helps return the shine and protect the new paint coat without the use of a kiln.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint colors can change while drying on your ceramic. Try a test spot first before painting your entire piece to make sure you like the color.

• You can find spray-on glaze at most craft stores.

• Always use a spray glaze in an open and ventilated space. Follow the directions carefully on the back of the spray can for best results.

References

• WoodZone: Sandpaper 101
• Michaels: Techniques
• Depauw University: Ceramics Resource — History