Enamel Paint for Glass

The use of glass enamels is relatively new in comparison to the painting on stained glass. The enamel paints are materials which harden after being exposed to air. These paints attain a glossy finish after hardening and on transparent surfaces as glass looks fabulous. There are many products of such paints available in the market. While using these paints, the process of air-drying or baking can be used to harden it.

Glass Enamel Paints

For any creative person who wants to try his hands on variety of surfaces, enamel paint for glass, wood as well as other surfaces are available. A brief info on these products and the technique of using them is given below.

Delta PermEnamel
This paint is primarily made for painting on glass however, one can also use it for different materials like metals, tiles and ceramics. The surface to be painted with PermEnamel first, must be cleaned with soap and water. This surface, then, needs to be painted with the conditioner; the conditioners generally come with enamel paint products. Applying conditioners to the surface of glass helps in binding the paint to the surface in a proper manner. A hazy layer of conditioner can be observed after its application and it needs to be left undisturbed for 10 days. After this curing period the PermEnamel paint can be used to realize what you want to create with this paints and glass. In addition, to heighten the effect the PermEnamel Gloss Glaze can be used to make the paint appear transparent.

Plaid Folk Art Enamels
The Plaid Folk Art Enamels is an acrylic enamel paint meant for use on glass. This paint doesn't offer compatibility with water. Before using this paint, one would require the glass surface to be cleaned with alcohol. In order to add a greater degree of transparency to the paint, one can think about adding the clear medium provided by Folk Art Enamels. Curing process for this paint requires a period of 21 days in air-dry condition.

Decoart Ultra Gloss Acrylic Enamels
This product can be used on different surfaces including glass. The surfaces other than glass include resin, candles, plastic, etc. Vinegar and warm water should be used for cleaning the surface before applying enamel paint. This glossy paint product is resistant to scratching and maintains the integrity of the patterns or the designs created on the glass for a long time. Unlike, other products available in the market which need conditioners for the paint to bind properly, the Ultra Gloss Acrylic Enamels can be used on its own. Air-curing is the commonly used process for this paint. In order to make the enamel paint suitable to dishware, one should consider oven baking it after the application.

Enamel Paint Pens for Glass
The enamel paint pens, that are available, are handy to use and suited for different types of surfaces including glass. Tip of these pens is around 2 mm and their average cost ranges from $2-$3. Baking makes the enamel paint pens suited for dish ware.

Enamel Paint Drying Time

The time required for enamel paint to dry depends on the two factors i.e. temperature and humidity. It can range from few hours to several days. It may amaze you to know that the enamel paint doesn't actually dry; curing is the process/reaction which follows after the exposure of these paints to air. In the process of curing, the paint gets oxidized. An artwork undertake when the temperature is low takes longer time in drying. Humidity is also a factor which causes the drying time to extend. The hot and dry conditions helps in quick drying/curing. Thickness of the coat also affects the time needed for drying. A thick coat requires more time for drying and vice versa.

Enamel paint for glass gives us the freedom to decorate glass utensils. Decorated with artwork, the appearance of these glass items is enhanced to a great extent. One should however, take the necessary precautions while using these paints for dishware. Enough amount of curing/drying should be carried out, in order to, make the glass utensils safe for use after application of these paints. So, get that favorite color of yours and paint the glass with beautiful patterns and designs.