How do you paint mirrored glass?

Painting mirrored glass requires some special considerations compared to painting regular glass. The reflective coating on mirrored glass can be damaged if not prepped properly before painting. Proper paint and tools also need to be used to avoid brush strokes and uneven coverage on the smooth, reflective surface. With the right supplies and techniques, it is possible to successfully paint mirrored glass in order to create unique decorative pieces for the home.

What You’ll Need

• Mirrored glass surface to be painted – this could be an old mirror, mirrored tiles, or mirrored glass sheets
• Paint designed for glass surfaces – look for acrylic craft paints
• Fine grit sandpaper – 600 grit or higher
• Cleaning spray – glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol
• Soft cloths
• Painter’s tape
• Foam brush or soft paint rollers – avoid regular stiff bristled brushes
• Newspapers or drop cloth
• Primer – optional

Gather all supplies before starting the painting project for easy access. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area as well.

Preparing the Mirrored Surface

Proper prep is crucial when painting mirrored glass to avoid damaging the reflective coating. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Wash the mirrored glass with cleaning spray and a soft cloth to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want painted. Press the tape down firmly along all edges.
3. Lightly scuff the surface with a fine grit 600+ sandpaper. This helps the paint better adhere to the slick glass surface.
4. Wipe off any dust with a soft, dry cloth after sanding.
5. Apply a thin coat of primer if desired. This isn’t mandatory, but can help the paint coverage.

Be extremely gentle when sanding to avoid scratching the mirror coating underneath. Just a light scuffing is needed for the paint to grip. Wipe gently as well when cleaning so as not to destroy the reflective layer.

Choosing the Right Paint

Picking paint designed specifically for glass surfaces is key when painting mirrored glass. Here’s what to look for:

• Acrylic craft paint – This works best for painting mirrored surfaces. The acrylic formula flexes well without cracking or peeling.
• Avoid oil-based paints – Oil paints take longer to dry and cure, which can react poorly with the mirror coating.
• Use paint pens cautiously – Paint pens work, but the alcohol solvents can sometimes damage the mirror backing. Test first in an inconspicuous spot.

Craft paint from the hardware store is an affordable option. There are also paint brands made specially for glass like FolkArt Enamel and Pebeo Vitrail. Get paint in the opacity you desire – transparent, translucent, or opaque.

Choosing Painting Tools

The tools used to apply the paint are important as well. Here are some tips for choosing proper painting tools:

• Use a foam brush rather than a stiff, bristled brush. The foam glides smoothly across the surface.
• Soft paint rollers also work for evenly applying paint without leaving brush strokes.
• Try a sponge brush for small details or touch-ups.
• Avoid regular, stiff bristle brushes as they will leave visible stroke marks.

Foam brushes are inexpensive and provide great control for painting mirrored glass. Mini foam rollers or sponge paint applicators are other good options. Test different tools on scrap glass to see what works best.

Painting Techniques

Follow these tips when applying paint for a flawless painted mirror:

• Work in thin, even coats allowing paint to fully dry between coats.
• Always keep the foam brush or paint applicator lightly touching the surface to avoid drips.
• Overlap strokes to blend the paint smoothly across the glass.
• Paint in one consistent direction for each coat.
• Seal paint after the final coat with a clear acrylic sealer or varnish.

Expect to apply several thin coats of paint rather than one thick coat for even coverage. Lightly sand between coats if needed to smooth out any brush strokes. Add paint effects in layers as well for a dimensional look. sealing the finished piece provides protection from scrapes or peeling.

Painting Designs and Patterns

When planning painted designs, keep these tips in mind:

• Outline any patterns first with a pencil then trace over with paint.
• Add dimensional details like dots, stripes, or squiggles in layers.
• Use painter’s tape and stencils to create sharp edges or geometric shapes.
• Refer to photos or create templates when painting intricate designs.
• Consider mirroring images for a reflected look.

Let creativity shine by painting patterns, textures, silhouettes, landscapes or abstract designs. Removable adhesive vinyls can also be used to mask off sections before painting. Allow each layer of the design to fully dry between coats for best results.

Troubleshooting Painting Issues

Here are some common painting problems and how to avoid them:

Issue	Solution
Streaky, uneven coverage	Ensure glass is lightly sanded first. Apply thin coats allowing drying time between.
Paint peeling or flaking	Use proper paint for glass. Do not overbrush strokes while painting.
Brush strokes visible	Use foam or sponge brushes instead of stiff bristled brushes.
Paint dripping	Keep brush lightly touching the glass. Don’t overloaded with paint.
Designs bleed or smear	Outline first with pencil. Allow each layer of the design to dry fully.

Check for any reactions on scrap glass first. Immediately wipe away any drips. If issues occur, sand away paint and reprepare the surface to start over.

Drying and Curing Paint

Oil-based paints take up to 2 weeks to fully cure while acrylic paint will dry within 1-2 days. Here are some more tips for proper drying:

• Allow minimum one hour between paint coats.
• Air dry paint instead of speed drying methods to avoid cracking.
• Cure times will be longer for thicker paint layers.
• Do not place painted side down directly on surfaces while drying.
• Avoid washing or submerging in water until fully cured.

The paint needs sufficient time drying between steps for the best durability. Once completely cured, most acrylic paint is dishwasher safe on glass. Let oven-baked paint cure for at least a week before cleaning.

Polishing and Sealing

After the painted mirror is fully dry, finishing steps include:

• Gently polish away any leftover haze with glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
• Apply a clear acrylic sealant spray or brush-on varnish.
• Allow sealer to fully dry then polish again for shine.
• Add a foil edge tape on the borders for a finished mirrored look.

The sealer prevents smearing or smudging of the paint over time. It also adds moisture protection. For extra glass-like reflectivity, adhesive mirror panels can be applied to the edges as well.

Painted Mirrored Glass Project Ideas

Here are some fun ways to use painted mirrored glass:

• Upcycle an old mirror with modern abstract designs.
• Create artsy tabletop accent trays or dessert plates.
• Decorate planters, vases or terrariums for floral arrangements.
• Add artistic backsplashes to kitchens or bathrooms.
• Make colorful mosaic address signs using mirrored tiles.
• Incorporate into jewelry displays, candleholders or coaster sets.

Painted mirrored glass presents almost unlimited possibilities for DIY crafts and home decor projects. Match designs to any theme or color palette. Consider mixing in some stained glass paint for part of the design as well for extra dimension. Let dry paint be the guide when handling to avoid smearing. Add a protective finish spray once completed to allow for everyday use. With these tips, it’s simple to create stunning painted mirror pieces for any room.

Conclusion

Painting mirrored glass requires careful prep work, the right paint and tools, and proper painting technique. But the results can make for incredible decorative accents. Use acrylic craft paints designed for glass along with soft, foam brushes. Outline any patterns first before painting and apply colors in thin, even coats. Allow each layer to fully dry between painting steps. Finish off with a clear sealer to protect the paint. Troubleshoot any issues like drips or streaks as needed. With some patience, creativity, and the right methods, you can turn any ordinary mirrored surface into a beautiful painted work of art.