Folk Art Enamel Paint Projects

You can paint all types of surfaces with folk art enamel paint.

Folk art enamel paints are unique in their ability to adhere to shiny surfaces like glass or porcelain. This makes these paints the perfect choice for surfaces you may not have tried to paint in the past. These fun projects will give you a taste of what you can do with paint that is water and scratch resistant as well as dishwasher safe. Glass and tiles in all different forms will look beautiful with neatly embellished and unique themes.

Recycled Farm Window

Paint an old farm window to resemble a real life scene inside or out.

An old farm window can be cleaned and painted to create a shabby chic window hanging.

Scuff and sand the edges of the window wood to create a weathered look; then thoroughly clean to make sure the surface is dirt and dust free before you begin painting.

Paint a simple or complex floral pattern on the inside of the window -- including the painting over the frame and mullions for extra interest.

Embellished Brandy Glasses

Drinking glasses can be painted with abstract designs for a contemporary look.

Although very beautiful, embellished drinking glasses don't always have to be painted with floral designs. Folk art enamel paints can also be used to paint modern designs.

Create an abstract or geometric pattern as a contemporary design for custom-painted liquor glasses. Large brandy glasses make a great surface to paint with folk art enamels. A continuous, stained-glass pattern painted around the snifter in multiple colors is a unique way to bring a pattern to a solid-color table setting.

Hand-Painted Christmas Ornaments

Hand-painted ornaments are a treat on any Christmas tree.

Hand-painted Christmas ornaments are beautiful when painted with folk art enamels. You can use clear glass or colored glass Christmas ornaments in any shape or size to paint designs which create any theme you want for your Christmas tree.

Paint a Santa, teddy bear, mountain landscape, floral, random swirl or any other pattern on your ornaments. Vary the designs slightly to create interesting sets for family keepsakes or to give as a gift.

This makes a great project to share with your kids.

Ceramic Tile Murals

You can paint a tile mural in any shape with any pattern.

Purchasing a custom ceramic tile mural can be extremely expensive, but when you use folk art enamel paints you can create a mural in any theme you want for a fraction of the cost.

Kitchens lend themselves to ceramic murals. A 16-by-20-inch wide still life mural is the perfect size for the space above the cooking range.

To create a kitchen mural, assemble a rectangular pattern of 4-inch ceramic tiles -- 4 inches high by 5 inches wide -- on a piece of plywood. Nail four thin wood strips around the perimeter of your tile to keep the pieces from shifting while you paint.

Use an existing design or live arrangement for inspiration. Paint your mural on the tile and allow to cure overnight. Mount on your wall with Weldbond adhesive and a non-abrasive silicone grout. Wipe gently to remove grout from the surface of the tiles to finish.

References

• Plain Online: FolkArt Enamels

Resources

• Home Pages: Vermont Folk Art Paintings on Old Reclaimed Windows
• Kitchen Murals: Enticing and Elegant Murals and Accents
• Collector Glassware: Hand Painted Glass Ornaments