Ceramic paints are a little different to their old friend, acrylic paint. So, what do you need to know before tackling a ceramic paint project? We’re uncovering how to use ceramic paint, what you can and can’t paint on and dodging any disasters to help before you start.

1. How do I use ceramic paints?

Use ceramic paints with a taklon brush. Ceramic paints are translucent, so you may need to build multiple coats to get an opaque colour.

2. How long does ceramic paint take to dry?

Ceramic paint generally takes 20 minutes to dry but 24 hours to cure. After painting, leave your creation to dry for 24 hours and then heat in the oven for 30 minutes at 140 degrees to “fix” (the paint will harden and bond to the material). If your ceramics aren’t oven-safe, skip this step and leave it aside to dry for a little longer.

3. How do I paint over glazed ceramic pots?

You can use the Mont Marte ceramic paints to paint over an already glazed ceramic pot. Just give the paint enough time to cure which is around 12 – 24 hours.

4. What paint can be used on ceramic?

To make sure your paint sticks to your ceramics for longer, it’s best to reach for ceramic paint. You can still use acrylic paint for brighter colours, but ceramic paint will stay on for longer, thanks to the additive inside which will harden as it sets.

5. How do I remove paint from ceramics?

If the paint is still wet, you can remove the paint with a wet cloth. But once the paint has dried, it’s difficult to remove. We all make mistakes, so if you’ve painted something and had second thoughts a few hours later, just grab the brushes and paint over it.

6. Can I paint a serving platter using ceramic paints?

Ceramic paints are not food safe and are for decorative use only. If you paint on a serving platter, you can pop your homewares on top but don’t serve actual food off it. Not even for an emergency or at your next party.

7. Can I mix ceramic paints in with pottery making?

In theory, you could mix ceramic paint into pottery to colour the clay, but careful with this as pottery and ceramic paint dry at different speeds. We’d recommend giving it a test run before committing to your project.

8. Can I use ceramic paints on clay?

You sure can! In fact, ceramic paints look great on air dry clay and polymer clays. Although keep in mind ceramic paints won’t magically waterproof your creation, (that includes ceramics) so it’s best to waterproof your air dry clay before picking up the ceramic paints. If you’re not sure how, check out our air dry clay techniques.

9. Why are my ceramic paints see through?

Ceramic paints can be transparent. For an opaque look, you can use a clear medium which is included in the Mont Marte Ceramic Paint Signature 26pc set to paint over your colour. Otherwise, it’s best to build up your colours in coats. Apply a coat, then leave it to dry for 20 minutes before going over it again.

10. Can I paint intricate or realistic details with ceramic paints?
You can. Because ceramic paints are translucent, you can paint them like you would with watercolours (just don’t add water) and layer your colours on top of one another to build up coats. The grisaille technique can also be used with ceramic paints. This is where you add your dark features and shadows in first, then add lighter colours in last. This technique will help if you’re looking to add shadows or rendering to your ceramic painting.


11. Can I use ceramic paints on glass?

You can, the Mont Marte ceramic paints work well on ceramic, porcelain, china and glass.

12. How do I best care for my ceramic paint project?

Avoid putting your creation in the dishwasher at all costs. The heat from a dishwasher will remove your design and possibly ruin your dishwasher. You can clean your masterpiece using a gentle, hand wash. Don’t let it soak in water and avoid putting it in the microwave (even to set it) or it’ll burn and ruin your microwave too.

We hope that answers a few of your commonly asked ceramic paint questions. Have anymore questions? Reach out on Instagram or Facebook, we’d love to help. Ready to try out ceramic paint? Make this mushroom painted pot with ceramic paints or try this ladybug painted pot project.