How to Paint Glasses With Acrylics That Won't Wash Off
Upcycling Glass: From Jam Jars to Jewel-Toned Decor
Wondering how to paint glasses with acrylics? Hang on to your old jam jars and wine bottles because you can easily give them a second life with just a few simple tools.
Repurpose Your Old Glass Jars
Keep reading for simple techniques, ideas for different effects, and how to ensure the acrylics bind to the glass surface for best results.
Don’t drink or eat from jars or bottles painted on the inside
Glass that’s been painted on the inside, or near the rim, should never be used for food or drink because the paint may contain chemicals that are not food-safe.
Read what Consumer Reports has to say in the article: How Safe Is That Painted Drinking Glass?
How to Paint Glasses With Acrylics That Last
Learning how to paint glasses with acrylics opens a world of creativity and fun. Whether working on wine glasses, mason jars, or glass plates, you can create something unique and intriguing for your home.
How to Paint Glass Objects With Acrylics (General Guide)
The following general guide is designed to get you ready for glass painting.
Step 1: Gather Your Glass Items
Start by selecting clear glass objects with smooth or slightly textured surfaces. This can include:
Wine glasses
Mason jars
Vases
Glass bottles
Glass plates
A reflective surface can enhance the vibrant colors of your finished piece, especially when working with transparent paint.
Step 2: Remove Labels
Many bottles and jars come with stickers or branding. Soak the labeled area in isopropyl alcohol (15 minutes approximately) and peel the label off.
Step 3: Wash and Prep the Glass
Clean the glass jar with soapy water and dry with a lint-free cloth or paper towel to avoid fuzz.
Then, wipe the entire surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils and dust.
Step 4: Plan Your Design
Beginner-friendly design ideas include:
Polka dots using a paint marker
Floral swirls
Geometric or boho patterns
A stylized glass of water
Acrylic portraits of transparent or real subjects
Colour string effects or acrylic pour painting
Step 5: Gather Your Materials
Materials to have on hand include the following:
Acrylic enamel paint or acrylic glass paint
Paint pens or paint markers (for fine lines and control)
Mod Podge or clear acrylic sealer (Gloss or Dishwasher-Safe Gloss is the best choice for durability)
Masking tape (optional, for blocking sections)
Sponge dauber (blends or softens brush marks)
Palette knife for creating textured designs
Spray paint or clear coat (optional final seal)
Step 6: Paint Your Glass
As you learn how to paint glasses with acrylic, the first thing to keep in mind is how much paint to apply.
Only use a thin layer for the first coat and allow each coat to dry completely before applying another.
To prevent peeling, use a spray adhesive after the first coat. You only need to do this once. After that, you can continue to build your paint layers.
How to Create The Stained Glass Effect
This art project gives a transparent, jewel-toned look to glass using Elmer’s glue and food coloring.
What You’ll Need
Clean, clear glass jars or bottles
Elmer’s school glue
Gel or liquid food coloring
Skewers or stir sticks (if using skewers, you can break them in half)
Small containers for mixing
Instructions
Prep Your Workspace: Line a tray with paper towels. Set your glass upside down to catch drips.
Mix Paint: In a container, combine about 1 tbsp of glue with food coloring. Adjust for deeper, vibrant colors.
Coat Glass: Pour into your jar and gently swirl to coat the entire area.
Drying: Set upside down and let air dry for 24–72 hours.
Speed Up With the Cold Oven Method
Let the glass air-dry for 1–2 hours until tacky.
Place in a cold oven, then set to 200°F (93°C).
Bake 30–60 minutes, then let cool inside the oven.
How to Create The Sea Glass Effect
The sea-glass effect mimics weathered beach glass using Mod Podge and food coloring. It dries with a frosted, matte look in shades like aqua, seafoam, or grey tones.
What You’ll Need
Clear glass jars, bottles, or plates
Mod Podge (Gloss or Matte)
Food coloring
Paper towels or foil
Cookie sheet
Stir stick or spoon
Cold oven (optional baking method)
Instructions
Prep: Line your tray. Clean your glass completely.
Mix: Combine Mod Podge with food coloring in a small container.
Apply: Swirl the mixture inside the glass. Tap gently to release bubbles.
Drain and Dry: Turn upside down to drip excess. Let dry for 24–48 hours.
Optional Cold Oven Baking
Air-dry for 1–2 hours until tacky.
Place in cold oven, set to 200°F (93°C).
Bake 30–60 minutes.
Cool fully in the oven
Did you try it yet? How did it work out?
Let me know in the comments (click the button below) whether you’ve tried this and how it turned out.