I want to paint ceramic mugs and i recently bought a kit from Toys r Us but it only contained pastel-colored paints. So I went to Wal-Mart and bought some Elmer‘s tempera paint and I‘m wondering if it will still work as well. After I finish painting the mugs, yes, I will be putting it in the oven for about 25 minutes. please and thank you :)
Tempera paint is NOT the type of paint to use because it's water based. It will wipe right off the mugs. Try waterproof acrylic paint, you will have better luck with it.
I have done a lot of ceramic and glass painting over the years, and I prefer either Pebeo porcelaine brand of acrylics(somewhat pricey) or Delta Ceramdecor Perm Enamel paint. You can air dry or bake in the oven for permanency. However I do not recommend putting the items in the dishwasher, even on the top rack. The directions will say that you can, but I don't like to take the chance after I have put that much time and effort into the project. It's the detergent and temp of the water that can do the damage. So here's what to do: Prep all your ceramicware and or glassware the same way. Wash with hot water and mild dish detergent. Rinse well, and let drain dry or wipe dry with lintfree dish towel. NOT a terrycloth towel. Be carefull not to touch the area you are going to paint. Oil from fingers will not let paint adhere to surface. I like to wear stretchy rubber gloves when I paint glassware and cups, plates, etc. Next give the item a vinegar bath. Wipe the surface to be painted with a clean cloth dipped in white vinegar. Wipe dry with lintless dish towel. Once you start painting, do not clean your brushes with water. You can clean them with the thinner/cleaner that you will find in the section with the paint. Water will break down the propertys/binders that make your paint stick to the surface. You can clean the brushes when you are finished with your project, with warm water and mild hand soap. Go to either Michael's or Hobby Lobby and ask one of the staff members to help you find the paint and brushes you'll need, and a book that will guide you thru this whole process. Read it carefully. I could tell you all the steps here, but it would take up too much space, and besides a book is a nice thing to have to refer to, also will have patterns. Good luck with your projects.
