How to Paint on Slate

Artists use different things to create their art. Painters are no different. Many painting artists use traditional canvasses but some try painting on more creative surfaces. Here's how you can paint on slate.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Slate tiles
• Acrylic paints
• Paintbrushes
• Mild soap and water
• Sponge
• Sealant
• 3/16-inch masonry drill bit
• Leather cord

1. Find some slate to paint on. Look for slate tiles at home improvement stores or a stone quarry. Sometimes, you can find slate at old abandoned houses. But ask permission to get any slate not on your property. Ask local masons who work with stone if they know places that'll sell slate or even give away broken slate tiles.
2. Prepare the surface of slate. First, wash the slate with a mild soap and water. You can use a mild cleaner if the slate has caked on dirt. Use a sponge to get caked on dirt off. Let it dry completely before you start the painting.
3. Select the right paints and paint brushes. Acrylic paints work best on slate and give the brightest results. Use durable paint brushes. Buy different varieties of paint brushes depending on what you're painting on the slate.
4. Use a base coat to help the paint stick to the surface of the slate better. Simply paint the area that you plan to work on with a neutral color such as tan or white. Then let it dry. Once it's dry, you can begin your painting.
5. Paint any theme you'd like. Paint almost anything on the slate as the only limit is your imagination. You may need a second coat. Let the first coat dry. Slate can soak up the paint. Apply a second coat if the color fades.
6. Coat the final painting with a glaze to protect the finished painting. Buy a sealant at any craft or hobby shop. Use a second coat if necessary.
7. Drill a hole through the slate to add a leather cord for hanging up the finished painting. Be sure to use at least a 3/16 inch masonry drill bit. Other drill bits might break or won't go through the slate.

Tips & Warnings

• Use bright lighting to help you paint on the slate.
• Watch out for the sharp edges of slate, especially broken slate.

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