How to Paint Glazed Ceramics Using Water-based Paints

Water based acrylic enamel paints will adhere to glazed ceramics. Acrylic enamels can be air dried to a high gloss and are scratch resistant when heat dried. These water based acrylics are non-toxic and can be cleaned with soap and water. Here are the steps for painting glazed ceramics using water based paints.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Water based acrylic enamels
• Glazed ceramics
• Brushes
• Oven or Blow dryer to 'heat set'

1. Use warm water and gentle detergent to clean glazed ceramics of all dirt and oil then clean again with rubbing alcohol. Let dry completely before painting.
2. Mix water based acrylic paints by stirring for 60 seconds before using. Then paint your chosen design on ceramics and lay flat to dry for 24 hours.
3. 'Heat set' oven safe ceramics by placing them in a cold oven then heating to 325 degrees. Bake the ceramics for 45 minutes in a very well ventilated space (being careful not to breath in any fumes). Then open the oven door to let ceramics cool in oven before removing.
   Or you can blow dry painted ceramics for 30 minutes to 'heat set', instead of baking in oven.
4. Test the painted finish of the ceramic by lightly scratching the paint with your fingernail. The 'heat set' paint should be scratch resistant.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove the still wet water based acrylic paint at any time by wiping with a wet towel.
• Do not use painted ceramics for eating food.