The Best Paint for Glass

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Painting on glass can be hugely satisfying, easy to use, and versatile. With a little imagination, all kinds of everyday glassware can be turned into unique and beautiful art pieces.

This craft can be experimented with for a very modest initial cost and the only other things you need are a good set of acrylic paint brushes and something to paint. While standard paint brushes are versatile tools, high-quality art brushes will make it easier to add detail to your DIY craft projects.

To help you select the best paint for glass projects available, the following in-depth guide may prove useful. We did a deep dive into product specifications, features, and customer reviews to create a list of favorites.

BEST OVERALL: FolkArt Gloss Finish Acrylic Enamel Craft Set
BEST VALUE: B BEARALS Glass Paint, Stained Glass Paint 12 colors
BEST FOR WINDOWS: Plaid Gallery Glass Window Color
BEST FOR TILES: Pebeo Vitrea 160, Frosted Glass Paint, 45 ml Bottle
BEST FOR LIGHT BULBS: Magicdo Stained Glass Paint with Palette,Transparent
BEST FOR ORNAMENTS: Arteza Craft Acrylic Paint, Set of 20 Colors, 2oz
BEST FOR JARS: Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint
BEST PAINT PENS: ARTISTRO Paint Pens for Rock Painting, Ceramic, Glass
BEST SPRAY: Krylon K09035000 Stained Glass Aerosol Paint

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Paint for Glass

While most of these products share similar characteristics, there are a number of differences that can impact choice. For example, the best paint for glass windows isn’t necessarily the best to paint glass jars, tile, or ornaments. The following sections explain the key features that may help you select the best paint for painting glass in your home.

Type

Most of the best, high-quality paint for glass for DIY and craft use is water-based acrylic. Standard acrylics are very versatile and can be used on paper, wood, canvas, and other materials. However, while they can be used on tile and glass, they may eventually get scratched or wear away on these materials.

Acrylic enamels have been developed to solve the problem. Unlike traditional enamels, which are solvent-based, acrylic enamels are still water-based. They can be used to paint glass jars to light bulbs, and they dry with good scratch resistance. Most can also be hardened further by curing in a household oven (depending on the object painted). Acrylic enamels are nontoxic, though that does not mean food safe.
Solvent-based glass paints are frequently the choice of professionals because of their outstanding durability. They can be used on glass, ceramic, and metal surfaces. However, they are toxic, flammable, and produce unpleasant fumes. The use of a respirator is advised, and they are definitely not recommended for children. They are often considerably more expensive than their acrylic counterparts.
Tempera paints come in handy for short-term use when painting glass bottles, jars, and windows. They adhere reasonably well but can be washed off with little effort. This makes them popular for store window designs that will be changed on a regular basis.
Chalk paint is meant for durability and longevity. It can be used on multiple surfaces including glass, ceramic, metal, wood, and canvas paper. It also doesn’t require any prep work to apply and select brands can be used for indoor and outdoor projects.

Form

Paint for glass comes in a variety of forms and sizes. While a 2-ounce bottle is probably most common, these paints can also be found in 0.5-ounce tubes similar to the way artist oil paints are supplied, right up to 11-ounce spray cans.

2-ounce bottles usually contain acrylic enamels and are sold individually or in sets. The latter is often an economical way to start. They generally contain enough paint to complete a number of small projects.
Tubes of paint are very similar to the 2-ounce bottles offered. But, less paint is included since the tubes usually have 12 to 14 milliliter capacities.
Spray paints for glass are great for covering large areas and come in a variety of finishes, including those that mimic the texture of sea glass and metallic. It’s an interesting medium to explore if you want to cover a whole glass vessel.
Paint pens have foam nibs of various widths, allowing anything from a broad brush application to fine line detail. This design offers more precise control than most other paint products, making paint pens preferable to users less comfortable painting with a brush. Compatible with a variety of materials, paint pens provide versatility and convenience.

Features

The way glass paint behaves, both when wet and dry, will have an impact on choice.

A starter set of a dozen bottles of mixable paint can actually produce hundreds of different colors.
Pigment strength and transparency are factors worth investigating. Some offer strong, bright colors even when highly transparent. Others appear like watercolors if a single coat is applied, but they get richer and more translucent with subsequent coats.
Water-based acrylic paints are usually nontoxic, but few are food safe. It’s recommended not to paint areas that will come into contact with the mouth, like the rim of a glass, for example.
While most acrylic enamel glass paints can be toughened by curing (more on that in another section), they offer limited weather resistance unless varnished or sealed with an additional product.
Several surface finishes are available. Gloss is most common, but frosted and shimmer effects are also popular, as are metallic finishes. Spray paints for painting glass can mimic textures like sea glass or frosted glass.

Permanent vs. Temporary

Those considering glass paint for a temporary window display, such as in a store, might want to look into tempera paints (which are also very kid-friendly). They produce an opaque effect and adhere readily to glass, but they can be cleaned off relatively easily when it’s time for a new display.

Standard acrylics can be used as semipermanent glass paint. They don’t harden as well as acrylic enamels, so they can be removed if necessary. However, a sealer coat can be applied on top if a permanent fix is preferred.

Acrylic enamels are generally intended as permanent glass paint, as are professional solvent-based products. They aren’t indestructible, but can prove very durable.

Glass Curing

Once allowed to air dry, which usually takes 24 to 72 hours, acrylic enamels are quite hard and can offer reasonable resistance to wear. However, durability can be dramatically increased by one of two processes.

The first is to use a spray-on or brush-on sealer. Two or three coats are applied, then left for 24 hours to cure. It’s worth experimenting with a single item before proceeding with a batch, as different sealers might affect texture or opacity.

The second method is to oven bake the acrylic enamel. Starting with a cold oven the glassware is raised to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, baked for 30 minutes, then allowed to cool naturally. After 72 hours, the piece should be tough enough to withstand being cleaned in the top tray of a dishwasher and will also be microwave safe.

It’s worth checking manufacturer directions for specific product instructions. Some recommend slightly higher temperatures or longer durations. However, caution is needed as some paints, particularly sprays, are not suitable for high temperatures.

Our Top Picks

Having read about the various factors that can impact your choice of best paint for glass, it’s now time to look at some of the top glass paints currently available. While they all offer versatility, each has specific areas where they excel. For that reason, these paint recommendations are separated into different categories.

Best Overall

FolkArt Gloss Finish Acrylic Enamel Craft Set

Pros

8 bottles of various colors
Thin consistency; easy to brush on
No sealing required
Dishwasher safe after 21 days

Cons

Takes some time to fully cure
May need oven curing for heavy-duty purposes
Pricey

Both beginners and experienced crafters can enjoy FolkArt acrylic enamel paints. They have a thinner consistency than standard acrylics, making them easier to brush on. They provide suitable coverage and produce rich, vibrant colors with high opacity. They mix well, too, so this eight-piece starter set can produce virtually any color imaginable.

FolkArt acrylic enamels dry to a tough finish that doesn’t need to be sealed. Oven curing will further increase durability, though the manufacturer says it isn’t completely necessary. However, while dry to the touch in just a few hours, if not baked it will take 21 days to be dishwasher safe. FolkArt acrylic enamel paints are also effective on ceramics.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic enamel
Form: 2-ounce bottles
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the FolkArt Gloss Finish set on Amazon.

Best Value

B BEARALS Glass Paint, Stained Glass Paint 12 colors

Pros

12 bottles included
Nontoxic
Sun-resistant

Cons

Small quantity per bottle
Takes some time and effort to fully dry

The B Bearals glass paint set contains 12 mixable colors in compact 0.84-ounce bottles. This allows those new to glass painting to try this fascinating craft at very little expense. These nontoxic paints comply with both U.S. ASTM D-4236 and European EN71-3 safety standards, so kids can join in the fun. It’s a versatile product that can be used on any glassware, with sufficient heat resistance for sunny windows or for painting glass bottles and light bulbs.

B Bearals acrylic paints have a smooth flow which reduces the appearance of brush marks. The bright colors can be enriched by adding subsequent coats. Paint reaches full-color fastness if air-dried for a week, or it can be left 24 hours then baked for 2 hours.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic
Form: Bottled
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the B BEARALS glass paint on Amazon or at Sears.

Best for Windows

Plaid Gallery Glass Window Color

Pros

Safe for children
Dries in 8 hours
Can be peeled off if needed
Comes in 30 colorways

Cons

Takes a week to fully cure
Not suitable for heavy-duty purposes

Gallery Glass window paint is thicker than most acrylic enamels, which makes it ideal for application to vertical surfaces like windows where it clings without running. It is water-based and nontoxic, so it is safe for use by children. While popular for glass painting and window art, it will also adhere to any glassware.

This paint dries to a translucent finish, but it may appear milky at first while wet. Although dry to the touch in around 8 hours, this paint takes approximately a week to fully cure. The finish is semipermanent, meaning it dries like a skin that can be peeled and scraped away. This makes it an excellent product for storefront displays. Gallery Glass is available in over 30 colors.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic, water-based
Form: 2-ounce bottle
Permanent/Temporary: Temporary

Get the Plaid Gallery Glass paint at Walmart.

Best for Tiles

Pebeo Vitrea 160, Frosted Glass Paint, 45 ml Bottle

Pros

Suitable for use on china, glazed earthenware, porcelain, or terra cotta
Comes in 36 colorways
Dries in 24 hours

Cons

Comes in less quantity per bottle than comparable options

Pebeo Vitrea 160 is a popular brand with artists both for the high quality of the paint and its versatility. These water-based, nontoxic acrylic enamels have a low odor and can be used straight from the bottle or thinned to produce higher transparency or blends. After drying for 24 hours, painted items can be baked for additional durability, making them safe for dishwashers and microwaves. In addition to glass, Pebeo Vitrea 160 can be used on all kinds of tile: china, glazed earthenware, porcelain, or terra cotta.

This formulation comes in 36 different colors and several finishes. Pebeo glass and tile paints can be intermixed to provide the artist with almost limitless possibilities.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic, water-based
Form: Bottled
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the Pibeo Vitrea paint on Amazon.

Best for Light Bulbs

Magicdo Stained Glass Paint with Palette,Transparent

Pros

Kid-friendly
U.S. ASTM D-4236 and European EN71-3- compliant
Works on glass and ceramics
High heat resistance

Cons

Limited quantity per color; may not be suitable for large projects

Magicdo’s kid-friendly, nontoxic paints come as a set of 12 tubes, each weighing 0.4 ounces, that closely resemble artist oil paints. An easy-to-clean mixing palette is included so users can blend their own colors for greater creativity. An initial coat appears highly transparent, but additional coats will achieve a richer color if desired. These acrylic enamels meet both U.S. ASTM D-4236 and European EN71-3 safety standards.

Magicdo paints work well on all glass surfaces and many ceramics, too. Oven curing can be used to increase durability. This paint’s high heat resistance makes it a particularly good choice for use on light bulbs. However, light bulbs should never be placed in an oven, so those need to be air-dried for a minimum of 24 hours.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic
Form: Tubed/bottled
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the Magicdo Stained glass paint on Amazon.

Best for Ornaments

Arteza Craft Acrylic Paint, Set of 20 Colors, 2oz

Pros

Universal uses; adheres to any smooth surfaces
20 colors offered
Squeezable bottles
Comes in multiple sizes

Cons

Pricey
Some users have reported overly thick consistency

Those looking for maximum versatility may want to try Arteza’s high-quality acrylics. These nontoxic paints have high viscosity so they adhere well to any surface, though as a water-based medium they can easily be thinned if necessary. These intermixable paints offer artists the opportunity to make their own color creations.

Arteza quick-drying acrylics can be used on almost any material from paper, canvas, and leather to rock, ceramics, and glass. The large variety of suitable materials make these paints an excellent choice for all kinds of ornaments and DIY projects. This set of 20 colors in 2-ounce squeezable bottles offers particularly good value for beginners to glass painting. Larger 4-ounce tubes are also available for those who paint frequently. They conform to U.S. ASTM D-4236 and European EN71-3 standards. However, they are not enamel and should not be baked.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic
Form: 2-ounce bottle
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the Arteza Craft acrylic paint at Walmart.

Best For Jars

Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint

Pros

Leaves a matte finish on glass
Offered in 12 different colors
Dries in 30 minutes
Suitable for a variety of surfaces

Cons

Some users report limited matte luster with some colorways

Whether Christmas is coming up and you want some decorative green and red jars for candles or want to create some unique, DIY string lights, you’ll need a paint that can stick to jars long term. The Rust-Oleum Ultra Matte Interior Chalked Paint is suitable for beginners to glass painting as well as experienced DIYers. Its texture is easy to brush while leaving bold, matte colors that last.

Each of the 12 matte paint colors dries in 30 minutes with a heavy-duty, long-lasting finish to paint glass jars, light bulbs, and even vases. Plus, it comes in a large 30-ounce container which can cover multiple large and small projects. Finally, feel free to use this paint on glass, ceramic, metal, wood, and canvas paper surfaces.

Product Specs

Type: Chalked paint
Form: Canned
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the Rust-Oleum chalked paint on Amazon.

Best Paint Pens

ARTISTRO Paint Pens for Rock Painting, Ceramic, Glass

Pros

12 markers included
Suitable for precise painting
Can be used on paper, fabric, stone, and glass
High opacity paint

Cons

Not suitable for large projects
Some users report fading

Most people find pens much easier to control than brushes. So Artistro’s acrylic paint pens allow people of all ages and skill levels to create their own works of art. What’s more, they can be used to draw on almost anything, from paper and fabrics to stone and glass. Artistro colors have high opacity, so they retain their brightness even when used on dark bases.

If decorated items are suitable for baking, then Artistro acrylics can be cured in the oven for increased permanence just like other acrylic enamels. This set contains 12 markers with a medium tip and offers superb value. Fine and ultra-fine tips are available for those who want to create more precise lines.

Product Specs

Type: Acrylic
Form: Paint pens
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the ARTISTRO paint pens on Amazon.

Best Spray

Krylon K09035000 Stained Glass Aerosol Paint

Pros

Easy to use
Moderate transparency
Dries in 30 minutes
Affordable price point

Cons

Not suitable for outdoor use
Requires multiple coats for no opacity

Krylon spray-on glass paint comes in 11.5-ounce cans and can be used to quickly transform plain glassware. The entire item can be colored, or interesting effects can be created by masking areas with paper tape before spraying. The spray paint offers moderate transparency with an initial coat. To increase opacity, subsequent coats can be added with around 30 minutes between each. Full curing takes around 12 hours.

Krylon aerosol spray paint provides effective durability for a variety of indoor DIY and craft projects. However, it can only be air-dried and should not be used on windows in full sun or on light bulbs. Nine colors are available, and the product conforms to ASTM D-4236.

Product Specs

Type: Translucent
Form: Spray paint
Permanent/Temporary: Permanent

Get the Krylon aerosol paint on Amazon.

Our Verdict

For a reliable, permanent paint for glass, look no further than the FolkArt Gloss acrylic enamel paints with 8 colors included and ease of application. Alternatively, for a budget-friendly, temporary paint, the Plaid Gallery paint is suitable for indoor and outdoor use and comes in over 30 colorways.

How We Chose the Best Paints for Glass

We researched the most sought-after paints for glass in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are determined by their type, form, durability and longevity, compatibility with multiple surfaces, and other special features included by top brands.

To ensure our list was as broad as possible, we included chalk, water-based, translucent, and acrylic paints that come in bottled, spray, and pen forms. The majority of these options are permanent to ensure they are heat and dishwasher-safe, while the temporary options offer versatility for seasonal holiday decorations or storefronts.

Plus, many of the paints in our above list come in various colors and can be used on multiple surfaces including glass, ceramics, wood, paper, and canvas. Finally, select paints listed above are safe for children to use and are U.S. ASTM D-4236 and European EN71-3- compliant.

FAQs

This comprehensive look at the features to consider when choosing the best glass paint may have given you a decent understanding of these versatile art products. However, with the variety of uses and decorative effects possible, it would be no surprise if a few questions remained. Here are answers to several of the most common ones.

Q: How do you prime glass for paint?

While it’s not always necessary, primers can promote better adhesion. A variety of brush-on or spray-on products are available. It’s important to check compatibility with your colors. For example, an enamel-based primer should be used with enamel-based acrylics. The primer should dry for between 24 and 72 hours before applying paint on top of it.

Q: How do you seal acrylic paint on glass?

Sealing acrylic paints can be done either by baking in an oven (manufacturers provide specific instructions on the curing process for their paint) or by applying a coat of sealer. Brush-on and spray-on versions are available.

Q: How do you remove spray paint from glass?

Small spots can be removed using acetone (most nail polish remover contains acetone). Apply with a cotton swab, leave for a minute or two, then wipe off with a damp cloth. Larger areas can be removed with white vinegar that has been heated (in a pan or microwave). There is a useful article on removing paint from glass here.