Painting with chalk paint is pretty similar to using regular paint. However, doing so on a glass surface does have an extra step to get the best-finished project that looks professional and aesthetically pleasing.
There are two types of chalk paint: a spray can or a paintbrush. Spray paint offers a smooth finish, while a paintbrush is textured. Before applying either, clean the surface and prime it using a primer or steel wool. Use tape to block off your working area and apply two coats of paint.
Applying paint correctly to your glass surface is vital to get a quality finish. So whether you have chosen to use chalk paint from a can to get that smooth finish, or paint applied with a paintbrush for a textured look, painting on glass surfaces is doable and can be a centerpiece to any home or protect.
Choosing Your Paint
There are two types of chalk paint you can choose from. One comes in a spray can (example on Amazon), and the other is applied like regular paint using a paintbrush (example also on Amazon). Both are good options, as it comes down to your painting and the effect you want.
However, you want to purchase chalk paint that says it adheres to glass for the best application.
While spray paint and regular chalk paint work great, subtle differences could sway your decision. Paint applied using a paintbrush is more likely to have a textured surface once it’s dried. Spray chalk paint will coat the glass surface in a smooth, even finish.
So really, it all comes down to how you want the finished product to look.
Prepping Your Surface
When painting on glass, it’s essential to prepare the surface before applying the paint for the best visual effect of your finished project.
You first want to wipe the surface with a dry, clean rag to remove any dust or debris that might be adhered to the glass surface. Not doing this simple step can make your painted surface look bumpy. In addition, any hairs left on will also be visible after you apply your paint.
Next, you want to block off the area you are working with. Using masking or painter’s tape, outline the area you plan to paint on.
This prevents any spreading of the paint to parts of the glass you didn’t want to be covered. If you are using spray can paint, ensure you have covered more of the area you don’t want to be painted, given the spray range.
The last step in preparation you need to do is to prime the surface. This can be accomplished in several ways, with varying results and methods.
Primer vs. Steel Wool: Which is More Effective?
Primer paint and steel wool offer a way to prime the glass surface for chalk paint application. However, primer paint needs to be designed for that specific task, so make sure you buy glass-specific paint. Then, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and paint the primer on the area you will work with.
Before applying your chalk paint in the next step, the primer must be completely dry.
On the other hand, steel wool can be used by rubbing either sandpaper or steel wool pads along the glass surface.
This purpose is to roughen up the surface, so the paint has an easier time sticking to the glass. The bonus with this method is that there is no waiting period. Once the surface is primed, you are ready to continue your project.
Painting Your Glass
Depending on what kind of paint you choose, painting with a paintbrush or in a can will determine how you complete the next step.
If you choose to use paint that will be applied with a paintbrush, then you need to be aware that the end result will be textured, no matter how you apply it. The best way to minimize this textured surface is to paint the first layer with brushstrokes that all go in a single direction.
Once that has dried, paint a second layer with all the brushstrokes going in another direction.
Painting with a spray can will be much smoother, giving it a nice, even finish. Spray can application is generally quicker and simpler as well.
All you have to do is cover the glass area you are working with two coats. Then, allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next one.
Letting it Dry
No matter your chosen painting method, you want to let it completely dry before removing the protective tape. Once it’s time to remove the tape, you want to run a razor along the masking tape.
It will slice the edge of the tape from the paint without ripping up any of the paint, which can leave the edges ragged and uneven.