How do you use acrylic paint on fired clay?

To use acrylic paint on fired clay, you’ll apply it using a brush with a small amount of paint, and some water to allow for smoother application.

Applying Acrylic Paint to Fired Clay: A Step-by-Step Guide

Using acrylic paint on fired clay is a popular way to add color and detail to your ceramic creations. Here's a breakdown of how to do it:

Ensure the Clay is Fired: Make sure that your clay piece has been properly fired in a kiln. Unfired clay will not work for this technique.
Clean the Surface: Remove any dust or debris from the fired clay using a soft brush or damp cloth. A clean surface ensures better paint adhesion.
Optional Sealing: While not always necessary, applying a sealant to the fired clay can create a smoother surface and improve paint durability.

Prepare your Palette: As shown in the video referenced above, place a small amount of acrylic paint on a palette.
Add Water: It is helpful to put water on your palette to slightly thin the paint to aid in application
Load your Brush: Dip your paintbrush into the water, then dab it into the paint. Start with a very small amount of paint on the brush, as shown in the video (0:54). This helps to avoid excess paint that can cause drips or pooling.
Apply Thin Coats: Apply the paint to the fired clay in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat, which can crack or peel.
Layering Colors: If you are adding more than one color, allow each layer to dry completely before adding a new color on top. This allows for sharp lines and color distinctions.

Type of Acrylic Paint: Most standard craft acrylic paints are suitable for fired clay.
Brush Selection: Fine tipped brushes work best for details, while larger, flat brushes work best for broad strokes and coverage.
Water Control: Adjust the amount of water used to thin your paints to achieve your desired consistency. This can be essential for different painting techniques like washes, layering, and blending.
Drying Time: Make sure the paint is fully dry to touch before you continue, as acrylic paints do not fuse with fired clay, therefore any wet paint may smudge.
Sealing the Finished Piece: After the acrylic paint is fully dry, you may choose to seal your design with an acrylic sealant. This will help protect the paint from wear and increase the longevity of your work.

Decorative Accents: Use acrylic paint to add decorative designs, patterns, or color accents to your pottery pieces.
Functional Pieces: Acrylic paint can be used on functional pieces such as mugs, planters, or dishes, but keep in mind that acrylic paints are not food safe, therefore you will need to apply sealant, and it's best not to paint the interiors of items that will come into contact with food.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully use acrylic paint on your fired clay creations.