Painting crockery is a fantastic way to express your creativity while decorating your dinnerware with unique, handmade designs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, this blog provides everything you need to know to get started with painting crockery. We discuss which paints to use, whether acrylic paint is suitable for porcelain, and provide a step-by-step guide for painting your own crockery. Additionally, we will share inspiring ideas and practical tips to elevate your creations to the next level.

Which paint for painting crockery?

When painting crockery, the choice of paint is crucial for a durable and beautiful result. Special porcelain paint or ceramic paint is the best choice because this paint is specifically designed to adhere to smooth surfaces like porcelain, glass, and ceramics. Porcelain paint is often dishwasher safe after curing, ensuring your artwork will last for a long time.

Can you paint porcelain with acrylic paint?

Yes, you can use acrylic paint to paint on porcelain, but it’s essential to know that not all acrylic paints are suitable for this surface. Use acrylic paint specifically designed for glass and ceramics for the best results. This paint adheres better and is often dishwasher-safe after baking in the oven. Make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the best outcome.

Can I paint crockery myself?

Absolutely! Painting your crockery is a fun and creative activity that is not only relaxing but also allows you to create unique and personalised pieces. Whether you want to paint a complete set or just a few accent pieces, you can achieve beautiful results with the right supplies and techniques.

Supplies for painting porcelain

To get started with painting porcelain, you'll need a few basic supplies. Below, we discuss the essential items you'll need:

Paint

Choose special porcelain paint or ceramic paint for the best results. This paint is designed to adhere well to smooth surfaces and is often dishwasher-safe after curing. Porcelain paint comes in a wide range of colours and finishes, from matte to glossy, providing plenty of creative options. Brands like Talens Art Creation and Folkart offer quality options that are easy to use and provide a durable finish after baking.

Paint brushes

Use fine, synthetic brushes for detailed work and wider brushes for larger surfaces. Make sure to use high-quality brushes to avoid streaks and loose hairs. Synthetic brushes are ideal because they apply paint evenly and are easy to clean. Invest in a few different sizes of brushes so you can paint both precise details and broader areas without any problems.

Degreaser

A good degreaser is essential to thoroughly clean your crockery before you start painting. Grease and dirt can reduce the paint's adhesion, so make sure your crockery is clean and dry. Use a special porcelain cleaner or a simple mixture of warm water and dish soap. Avoid using wet wipes or cleaners that leave a residue, as this can negatively affect the paint's adhesion.

Palette and mixing bowls

A palette and mixing bowls are useful for mixing and thinning your paint. This helps you get the exact colour and consistency you need for your design. Use a ceramic or glass palette, as these materials are easy to clean and do not absorb paint. Plastic or ceramic mixing bowls are ideal for mixing small amounts of paint and keeping your workspace organised.

Tape and stencils

You can use painter’s tape and stencils to create clean lines and intricate patterns. Painter’s tape is perfect for masking off parts of your design that you don't want to paint, and stencils are great for creating repeatable patterns and intricate motifs. Make sure to use good-quality tape that doesn’t stick too much but also doesn’t let paint seep through.

Felt-tip and porcelain markers

For fine details and line work, felt-tip and porcelain markers are a great solution. These markers offer precision and control and come in a variety of colours and tip sizes. They are easy to use and ideal for beginners who are less experienced with brush techniques. We recommend the porcelain markers from the brand Edding.

Oven and baking tray

A regular household oven is necessary to bake your painted crockery, allowing the paint to cure and become dishwasher-safe. Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for the correct temperature and baking time. Place your crockery on a baking tray covered with baking paper to protect it and ensure it heats evenly.

Step-by-step guide to painting crockery

Painting crockery is a process that requires some preparation and patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Clean and degrease your crockery

Use a degreaser to thoroughly clean all surfaces. This ensures that no grease or dirt is present, which could reduce the paint's adhesion. Allow the crockery to dry completely before you begin painting.

Step 2: Choose your design

Decide what you want to paint and, if necessary, make a sketch on paper. This helps you get a clear picture of your design before applying it to the crockery. For more complex designs, you can use a stencil or make a light pencil sketch on the crockery.

Step 3: Apply the first layer of paint

Use a thin layer of paint and let it dry completely. For some designs, it may be helpful to apply several thin coats for a more intense colour. Work patiently and ensure each layer is completely dry before applying the next one to prevent the paint from running or becoming streaky.

Step 4: Add details

Use fine brushes to add details and accents, such as dots, lines, or patterns. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before proceeding to avoid smudging. You can also use porcelain markers for extra-fine details.

Step 5: Correct any mistakes

Don’t worry if you make a mistake; you can easily correct it. Use a damp cloth or cotton swab to remove wet paint, or gently sand off dry paint with fine sandpaper.

Step 6: Finishing touches

Once you’re satisfied with your design, check for any spots where the paint may not be fully covered and touch these up if necessary.

Step 7: Bake in the oven

Follow the instructions on the paint packaging for baking your crockery. This process helps to set the paint and make your crockery dishwasher-safe. Place the crockery in a cold oven, set the temperature as indicated, and let it cool in the oven after baking to prevent cracking.

Step 8: Maintenance and care

After your crockery has cooled and been removed from the oven, it’s ready for use. Although most porcelain paints are dishwasher-safe after baking, hand washing is recommended to extend the lifespan of your artwork. Avoid abrasive cleaners and metal sponges to keep your design intact.

With these steps, you can create beautiful, personalised crockery pieces that are not only functional but also unique additions to your dining table. Enjoy and take pride in your creations!

Painting crockery with kids

Painting crockery with children is a fantastic way to engage in creative activities and create beautiful memories together. It’s not only fun but also helps develop fine motor skills and patience in kids. Start with plain white crockery and use kid-safe porcelain markers or paint. Let their imagination run wild by creating their own designs or using stencils for extra guidance. Make sure to protect your work surface with newspapers or a plastic tablecloth, and wear old clothes or aprons to prevent paint getting on clothes. After painting, you can bake the crockery together in the oven to make the artwork durable. This makes it extra special as they can use their own painted plates, mugs, or bowls at the next meal. It's a great project for rainy days, birthday parties, or just a creative afternoon at home.

Ideas for decorating your crockery with paint

Decorating your crockery can be done in countless ways, depending on your taste and skills. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Floral patterns: Paint delicate flowers and leaves for an elegant and classic look.
• Geometric patterns: Use tape to create clean lines and patterns for a modern appearance.
• Seasonal themes: Customise your crockery to match the seasons, with snowflakes in winter or sunflowers in summer.
• Personalise with names: Create personalised plates and mugs by adding names or initials, perfect as gifts.

Tips for painting crockery

Here are some of the best tips for painting crockery:

• Choose the right crockery: Start with crockery that has a smooth and flat surface. This makes painting easier and ensures an even coat of paint. Avoid crockery with a lot of relief or texture, as this can cause paint to build up and result in an uneven finish.
• Clean thoroughly: Before you start painting, make sure your crockery is completely clean and dry. Use a mild detergent and warm water to remove dirt, dust, and grease. Rinse well and let the crockery dry completely. This helps the paint adhere better and prevents dirt from interfering with the paint.
• Use suitable paint: Opt for paint specifically designed for porcelain or ceramics. Porcelain paint and acrylic paint suitable for ceramics are often dishwasher-safe after baking. Read the instructions on the paint packaging to ensure you're using the right type of paint.
• Work in thin layers: Apply the paint in thin layers to avoid drips and uneven coverage. Let each layer dry thoroughly before applying the next one. This may take some patience, but it results in a much smoother and more professional-looking design.
• Use stencils or painter's tape: For clean lines and intricate designs, use stencils or painter's tape. Stencils help you create consistent patterns, while painter's tape helps you achieve straight lines and sharp edges. Make sure to press the tape down firmly to prevent paint from seeping underneath.
• Experiment with techniques: Try different painting techniques to create unique effects. You can stamp with a sponge or stamp, draw with porcelain markers, or paint with a brush. Each technique gives a different effect, so experiment to find what you like best.
• Bake the crockery: After you've finished painting, you need to bake the crockery to set the paint. Follow the instructions on the paint packaging for the correct temperature and baking time. This ensures the paint adheres well and is durable, so your crockery can be safe to put in the dishwasher.
• Get inspired: Look online for inspiring ideas and examples to spark your creativity. Websites like Pinterest and Instagram are full of beautiful examples of painted crockery. Draw inspiration from others and adapt the ideas to your own style.

Painting crockery is a wonderful way to express your creativity and create unique pieces you can use daily. With the right materials and techniques, anyone can create beautiful designs, whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist. So gather your paints and brushes and start painting your own crockery today!