Archive for November, 2008

Practice Your Painting Skills

master-bedroom-007img_0215Many of you out there may not have considered this priceless tool when you want to create a sample design or practice your painting skills. Waxed paper is a cheap and an easy product to use just for this purpose. It is also a great way to paint a design sample for a wall. Hold it up to the wall to get an idea of what your finished design will look like. This can save you valuable time and prevent you the expense of re-painting if you do not like it on the walls.

Often waxed paper can be found at your local dollar store. Just tear off usable size sheets as you go. Once you are finished with your design allow it at least an hour to dry. It will be ready for you to either tape it or hold it up to the wall to see your sample design. If you do not like it, just throw it out and start all over again.

If you are using it to practice on, again just tear off in easy to use sheets. Go to town practicing your designs. No need to allow for drying time, just crumple it up and dispose of it in your trash can when your sheet is full. Pull out another sheet and practice some more. It is as easy as that. Always remember, practice makes perfect!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Painting Designs on Wine Glasses

coffee-cups-0521coffee-cups-0501The sky is the limit with the designs that can be painted on wines glasses and other party glassware. Whether you are looking for something simple like a floral design or to have a cute friend painted on a special glass, they are perfect for these type of designs. Just let your imagination flow and see where you end up. Have fun along the way.

You do not have to know exactly what image you are going to paint when you begin. It is actually a lot of fun to start with an idea and continue to build on it as you go along. You might be surprised how easy it is to come up with ideas as you work. It seems like you just know by seeing it what feels right. You can always wash it off and start over if you are not happy with the finished product. This makes painting on glass a great way to learn how to paint. It is easy to fix a mistake and is not costly, which makes it even better!

If you are not a freehand painter you can select from copyright free clip artto use as your design. If you decide to go this route, you may either use transfer carbon to place the design on outside of your glass, or tape the image on the inside of the glass and paint from the picture. If you use the carbon it is possible you will see the lines from the inside of the glass. If all else fails, it is easy to paint on glass using swirls, squiggles, and polka dots in multi-colors. Let the fun begin!

Amy
http://www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com/
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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A Great Paint for Coffee Cups

new-hd-canvas-pictures-052new-hd-canvas-pictures-047If you ever have wanted to paint on coffee cups, tea cups, or mugs, you may have wondered if there was a paint on the market that would be microwave safe. Through my painting experience I have tried different types of paints and have found one recently that claims to be not only dishwasher safe, but microwave safe as well. This wonderful product is Pebeo 150 Paint.

This product is very durable. It adheres well to different types of glass including porcelain and clear glass such as wine glasses and martini glasses. It is very transparent, almost stain glass looking when painted on clear glass.

This paint has a different behavior than working with regular craft acrylic paint. It may take some experimenting to get your technique down, however once you find what methods works best for you, the finished product is just great. It will be able to stand up to frequent use.

It is imperative that the directions are followed when using this paint. The 24 hour drying time before baking is really important. If you bake it too soon, it could cause the paint to bubble and ruin your design. You do not want to spend all that time working on your design and then have to throw it away because you did not let it air dry long enough. Be patient and you will have a lovely piece of artwork when you are done. Go on and get busy!

Amy
http://www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com/
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Designs You Can Use to Paint on Glass

wine-glass-and-bowl-order-002If you are someone who does not have much artistic ability if any, you too can paint on glasses and create a lovely piece. That is the neat thing about painting on glasses, they are easy to do and can look nice even if just a simple pattern is used. Maybe even something laying around your house can be used for the design. Let your imagination run free with this one.

I have seen some really neat art work that is made by placing polka dots in random placements all over a piece, or placed together in certain patterns to form a more structured design. Items that can be used to create the polka dots are pencil tips, the eraser on a pencil, the end of a paint brush, and a stylus. These are just a few items that come to mind. I love painting with dots, big and small. They can add more interest even to piece that I am able to hand paint.

Maybe even consider different brush strokes like the dry brush stroke using a flat paint brush. Multiple colored swirls and squiggles all over in different colors can create a festive look. Painting different shapes everyone is familiar with like squares, triangles, and rectangles. That would be a nice contemporary look.

You could even use a sponge and pounce the color on to the glass. It does not have to be a special sponge. Any will do. Keep an open mind and the designs ideas will follow. Remember to have fun. That’s what it is all about!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.comhttp://www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com/
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614-530-0219

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Choosing Your Paint

The paint you choose for your project can really determine the outcome of your product. You will need to consider what it is being used for when making your selection. It seems that many artist will start off trying different products and then settle on one form that fits them best.

 

 

I love paint and try different brands frequently. If I see something new coming out on the market, I immediately research it and find out where I can buy it. I love the internet for that very reason. It is so easy to get online, find the products you are looking for and purchase it right then and there. You don’t even have to leave your home or your chair for that matter!

 

After trying many different types of paints, the one I love the most for most of my projects is the Folkart, Acrylic Enamel Paint. It is made for glass, however I use it on everything I paint except for fabric. I do stick to fabric paints for those projects. I even us it when I do decorative painting on walls!

 

It is very user friendly and holds up well for most projects that I do. It looks lovely on the walls I have painted and turns glassware from hum drum to WoW! It is a very durable paint and will hold up well for years.

 

There are many different paints out on the market. Don’t be afraid to try new products. It may require learning how to work with it before you use it on a good project, but that is okay. That really is part of the learning process. If you have questions about a paint and the behaviors of it, I am certain you can find an expert who love to share their wisdom with you. Believe me, I have done this many times. I also return the favor and help others who ask me for advice.

 Jump in and have fun!

Amy
614-530-0219
glass-to-coordinate-with-plates-0022

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Anyone Can Paint Wine Glasses

red-hat-lady-glasses-and-sample-glasses-0081crazy-margarita-glass-003You may feel that you have to have a lot of artistic talent to be able to paint on glassware such as wine glasses. If you have ever spent any time looking at sites where these type of glasses are sold, you will find a variety of designs from very simple to extremely detailed and difficult. Often even the simple designs are very nice and anyone would love to receive them from you as a gift.

I have done many fun glasses that are very colorful and party like with just polka dots all over them. I have even done ones with different colored squiggly lines. Very simple and most anyone can do them.

For those of you who are not able to paint freehand, you might consider taping your picture on the inside of the glass and paint from there. You could even buy transfer carbon and trace the picture you want to paint on to the glass before proceeding. Either way would be easy for you to complete your design work.

Do not be afraid to jump in and give it a try. You will feel a sense of accomplishment and might be surprised how nicely your glasses will turn out. You will be able to give your friends and family a personalized gift from your heart. Now go paint!!

Amy
http://www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com/
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Baking Your Hand Painted Glasses

crazy-margarita-glass-016It is funny, I have received so many emails this past week from people who are attempting to paint their own glassware. They want to give them as gifts for the upcoming holiday. They are asking questions from what kind of paint to use, to is it really okay to bake the glassware in the oven?

You might have the same questions also, but were too afraid to ask. Well, first of all do not be afraid to ask. I know I sure have asked my share of questions of other artists, even though I have been painting for years. Most of which have been more than willing to share information as well as giving out pointers. I know I am more than willing to help others with their questions.

My first suggestion when beginning to paint on glass is to follow the instructions on the paint you are using. I highly recommend if it suggests allowing the piece to dry for a certain amount of time, to make sure you follow this carefully. It could make a difference in how your piece turns out.

The most important thing to remember when you want to bake glassware, is to place it in your oven when it is cold. Begin your pre-heating process after it has been placed in the oven. When the baking process has completed, allow your pieces to cool down completely before removing them from the oven. Sudden change in temperature is what causes the glass to break. If you follow these directions, you should be fine.

When in doubt, always ask!!

Amy
www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com

aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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Gather Your Friends to Paint Fun Glasses for Your Group

If you belong to a club such as the Red Hat Society or maybe even a local garden club, hand painted glasses would be fun to have for your gatherings. You do not all have to have the same type of glass. There are so many types to choose from and you can make your selection based on your favorite drink. Any type of glass can be turned from a boring old glass to something bright, fun, and festive.
It would even be fun to gather your club friends and paint your own glasses. They are easy enough to do. This would be a great way to socialize while doing a craft or work of art. Depends on how you look at it!
The glasses can be found cheaply at local department stores or home good stores. You really do not need that many supplies. A little rubbing alcohol to clean off the glass prior to painting, a small selection of acrylic enamel paints, a few brushes and water bins, maybe even a few paper towels and you will be ready to go.   This is a fun way to relax and get caught up with your friends and have something pretty in the end.red-hat-lady-glasses-and-sample-glasses-004red-hat-lady-glasses-and-sample-glasses-008red-hat-lady-glasses-and-sample-glasses-019
After you have completed your glasses you may either take them home and bake them to cure the paint, or allow them to air dry and the paint will be cured in 21 days. You can still use them, just hand wash and handle with care. It’s really quit simple as you can see.
Amy
614-530-0219

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How To Paint Wine Glasses

red-hat-glasses-036Painting wine glasses is really quite simple. It is a project that is possible to complete within a few hours from start to finish. So, if you entertain frequently or you are in need of a quick gift, this is a perfect idea.

 

 

Choose whatever type of glass you would like to paint. The wine glass seems to be the most popular, but base it on what type of drinks you and your guest will like to drink. I would recommend finding cheap glassware to start off with. You can progress to the pricier versions when you gain more experience. If you make a mistake, remember it washes off and you may start all over again!

 

 

The first thing you need to do is wash your glass and swab it off with rubbing alcohol. Try to avoid touching it at this point, as much as is possible while you are painting it. It is a great idea to have the design in mind prior to starting. If you are not a freehand painter, you may use carbon paper or similar products available at your local craft store, to transfer the design to the glass.

 

 

Once you complete the painting of your glass, you should allow the piece to air dry for at least 1 hour prior to baking it. Please refer to the instructions on your paint to confirm the proper timeframe. There are some paints that require 24 hours of drying time prior to baking. It is important to follow these instructions. Bubbling of the paint may take place if baked before

 

the paint has cured the proper length of time. You do not want your piece to be ruined after you have worked so hard on your project.

 

 

Always place your glass pieces in to a cold oven and then begin to preheat it. Once your pieces are finished baking, allow them to cool down completely prior to removing from the oven. These steps are very important to avoid breakage.

 

 

Typically, you will either be required to preheat your oven to 350 degrees and bake the glassware for 1/2 and hour, or 300 degrees and bake it for 35 minutes. Each type of paint varies and it is important to read the instructions prior to baking your pieces.

 

 

Once you have completed these steps you may begin to use your glasses. They are dishwasher safe if placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. It is recommended that they be washed by hand to preserve their design. That is up to you!

 

 

Amy

 

 

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Tis The Season

wholesale-order-from-megan-71108-031sample-design-glasses-066sample-design-glasses-082Holiday entertaining and parties are just right around the corner. You almost can smell the turkey’s roasting and the holiday pies being baked for all to enjoy. A nice touch to your celebration would be hand painted wine, champagne, martini, margarita, or pilsner glasses. Add to the painted glasses a set of either glass or plastic dessert and dinner plates. What a festive feeling your party will have.

These special items are very affordable for most. They can be painted with the design of your choice. You are not limited to what you see on the local stores shelves. These pieces will be lovely on your holiday table, making your guests feel special that you went the extra step to make your event unique.

These pieces are dishwasher safe if placed on the top rack. The glassware is baked to set the paint. The plastic is coated for added protection. You may either throw them out when the party is over, or hand wash and save for next year to be reused again. Some of your guest may even ask to take them home. You would be surprised how impressed your friends and family will be.

Amy
http://www.amyspaintedhouseandmore.com/
aamilou@aol.com
614-530-0219

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