help painting ceramic lamp shade

[joyfulheart]

My dh bought a floor lamp with a glass/ceramic white lampshade. We both agree it needs a little help!

I want to paint the shade. Does anyone know what kind of paint I should use? Acrylic? Or is there a special paint for glass and ceramic? Is it a fire hazard to paint and lamp shade?

TIA...

[maybemom05]

I don't think it's a fire hazard if you're painting on the ceramic that is contained to the lampshade - however, I would steer away from gluing anything on to the shade, fabric, lace, etc. If the ceramic conducts heat from the bulb, it might cause a problem. Also, make sure you're using the correct wattage bulb.

I believe that acrylic paint will work - I've seen it done on TV, but I'm not sure what kind of paint they used. A sales person at Michael's Crafts should be able to help you ( you don't necessarily have to purchase it there, but they'll know one way or the other.)

good luck!!

[Ember]

I know to paint on ceramic you use a special primer called KILZ. I'm not sure about the fire hazard though. That shade will probably get pretty hot. Ask the paint pros at the home store. They would know.

[joyfulheart]

Wow, you mamas are quick with the responses
Thank you!

[Ember]

I meant to add that I used KILZ on ceramic tiles and then painted over it (faux marble) with latex paint and it worked perfectly. That was about 5 years ago on tile that lined the edge of the bathtub and it's still holding up wonderfully.

[weebitty2]

You can use acrylic or latex paints, but I'd recommend priming first with kilz, and not using the lamp (or using it without the shade) for at LEAST 24 hours after the paint dries. I've done it with hurricane lamp globes and never had a problem, although eventually you'll need to repaint. (It's been about every 5 yrs for me, but our lamps burn oil, not electricity, so they get pretty hot and have to be cleaned a lot )