You can paint ceramic tile permanently – no oven required! The following instructions below describe two different methods. The heat setting method is for tiles that are not yet installed and can be “baked” in an oven. The air drying method is for tiles that are already installed.
The heat setting method
For the heat hardening method, use Liquitex Glossies, water-based acrylic enamel paints that are formulated to adhere to slippery, non-porous materials. When heat set, Liquitex Glossies dry to a scratch resistant, high gloss finish.
First, clean the tiles with soap and warm water. After rinsing, follow a second time with isopropyl alcohol or a 50/50 mixture of water and vinegar. Dry with a paper towel and avoid touching the tiles.
Next, it’s time to paint. The Liquitex Glitter is very easy to use and clean. They can be mixed to any color and air dried by evaporation. Errors can be corrected by wiping with a damp cloth while the paint is still wet, or by repainting if the first coat has already dried.
After the paint has completely air dried, place the tiles on a cookie sheet and put them in a cold oven. Set the temperature to 325 degrees F and “bake” for 45 minutes, then turn the oven off, open the door, and allow the tiles to cool slowly.
Test the paint finish by lightly scratching the surface with your fingernail. If paint can be scratched, increase drying time or bake time. The tiles can then be installed with a non-abrasive acrylic tile grout. The tiles can be cleaned with a mild dish detergent and warm water, without abrasive cleaners.
The air drying method
The air drying method requires a bit more work, but is worth it if you want to paint ceramic tiles that were previously installed. For this method, use Delta Air Dry PermEnamel products.
To prepare the tiles for painting, first clean the tiles with water and a mild dish soap; do not use glass cleaner, vinegar, or any other additive on the tile. Continue applying Delta PermEnamel Surface Conditioner with a clean, dry, soft brush. Conditioner has a four-hour pot life, so apply only to areas that can be paintable within that time frame. The conditioner will leave a film on the tiles. Do not clean this film as it contains the necessary bonding agents to make the paint permanent.
After the conditioner has had enough time to evaporate, paint the tiles with Delta Air Dry PermEnamel paint. One caveat: this paint doesn’t mix well with water. Do not use water to thin the paint, and make sure the brush is completely dry if you rinse it with water. To correct paint errors, reapply the surface conditioner, allow it to evaporate, and then repaint.
Once the paint has completely dried, apply PermEnamel Glaze to further protect the new paint. Apply at least two coats of polish and allow one hour to dry between applications.
Tiles must air dry for a full ten days before the paint is considered permanent. No water or other liquid should come into contact with the tiles during this time. Once cured, the tiles can be washed with warm water and a mild dish detergent, without abrasive cleaners.
Final thoughts …
Although both methods are considered permanent, be careful when using the tiles in areas that are repeatedly exposed to hot water, as well as in areas of heavy use.
Both methods can be used to paint the tiles a completely different color, but if you’re feeling creative, try painting tile murals or other designs, either freehand or using stencils.
