Method for Printing onto Melamine

Dress up a plain melamine plate with printed designs.

Melamine is a popular material used for creating dinnerware and utensils. It is durable and does not break easily, making it a good choice for everyday use. You can customize your melamine dinnerware or accessories by printing and stamping on it, making them match your kitchen or dining room decor. Since melamine has a slick glassy surface, glass paints or enamel paint works well and adheres to the surface. You can print freehand designs or use stencils and stamps to print on melamine.

Things You'll Need

• Melamine
• Glass paint or enamel paint
• Paintbrushes
• Stencils or stamps
• Clear tape
• Palette or disposable plate
• Rag cloth or cotton

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the melamine ware, removing all traces of dirt.

2. Place the stencil over the utensil, using small pieces of clear tape to adhere it to the surface. Omit this step if using design stamps.

3. Squeeze paint on a palette or disposable plate. Using a brush, dab the paint over the stencil, making sure it spreads over the design in all corners and crevices. If using a stamp, spread a good amount of paint on the palette and dip the stamp in the paint, rocking it back and forth to cover the stamp completely. Place the stamp over the melamine utensil to imprint the design onto it.

4. Remove the stencil carefully so that the paint does not spread. Repeat the printing with the stencil or stamp, depending on how you want to design the melamine utensil.

5. Leave the melamine ware to dry completely, ensuring the surface is protected from dust.

Tips & Warnings

• Cure glass paint by placing the melamine ware under the hot sun.

• Use a combination of colors to design your melamine utensil.

• Hand wash printed melamine ware to prevent scratching of the design and paint.

References

• Art at Home Studios: Tips for painting on glass