Glass is smooth and non-porous, so nothing soaks in and everything depends on how clean it is. Degrease it thoroughly, and paint where water cannot creep under the coating, such as the outside of a vase. Jubilee, Super GILD and GILD Originals work on decorative glass, as far as a water-based paint can. Chrome, as an oil-based paint, grips better and gives the mirror finish. Bleo needs a porous surface to soak into, so it will not work on glass.
On this page
Four ways to paint glass, from solid colour to a mirror finish.
Solid British heritage colour on jars, bottles and vases.
Our most reflective metallic, close to gold leaf, for vases, frames and ornaments.
A softer metallic sheen for decorative glass and display pieces indoors.
Foil pigments align as it dries for a mirror-like silver, brushed by hand. Best on smooth, non-porous glass.
Glass is smooth and non-porous, so preparation matters more here than anywhere else.
Glass must be completely free of grease and fingerprints before you paint.
Check the colour and how it grips on a small, hidden area first.
Use a soft synthetic brush. Thin coats give a smoother, more reflective finish than one heavy coat.
These are decorative finishes. Paint where water cannot get beneath the coating, such as the outside of a vase.
Set out by job. GILD Originals and Super GILD are the one true step up.
| On this surface | Jubilee | GoodGILD Originals | BetterSuper GILD | Chrome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Finish | Solid, opaque colour | Soft metallic sheen | Bright, highly reflective | Mirror-like silver |
| Base | Water-based | Water-based | Water-based | Oil-based |
| Outdoors | Yes | No | Yes | Mainly interiors |
| Coverage | Two thin coats | Two thin coats | Near full in one coat | Very thin layers |
| Touch dry | About 30 minutes | About 1 hour | About 30 minutes | 4–6 hours |
| Top coat | Not needed | Optional | Optional | Never |
From hand-stencilled linen napkins to softly gilded candlelight, discover four simple handmade ideas that bring colour, texture and character to your table. Using Bleo River Blue and Super GILD Platinum, these projects celebrate thoughtful entertaining, natural materials and the pleasure of making something by hand.
Karen Musgrave Hill’s journey into botanical art began as a serendipitous discovery, evolving from coloured pencil drawings to intricate glass vessels. Her work merges delicate botanical illustrations with layered decoupage and gilding techniques, creating one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate nature and craftsmanship. Influenced by vintage Japanese papers and rich colour palettes, Karen’s art reflects her passion for precision and beauty. She continues to explore new techniques, preparing for an exciting solo exhibition showcasing her distinctive fusion of art and glasswork.
No. Keep painted glass out of the dishwasher and wash it gently by hand to preserve the finish.
Yes, on decorative areas only. Guild Lane paints and finishes are not food safe, so they should not be used on surfaces that come into direct contact with food or drink.
Keep the paint away from food, drink and drinking edges.
It can be, but we don't usually recommend it. Painted glass is mostly decorative and doesn't need the extra protection. Never top coat Chrome.
Not usually. Clean and degrease the glass thoroughly. On very smooth or slick surfaces, light sanding or a primer can improve adhesion.
Use a soft synthetic brush and apply very thin, controlled layers without overworking them. Do not apply a top coat.
Chrome is oil-based, so work in a well-ventilated room and clean brushes with white spirit, never water.
No. Bleo needs a porous surface to soak into, such as fabric, raw wood, cork or terracotta. For colour on glass, use Jubilee.
Super GILD can be used outdoors. Chrome forms a waterproof finish but is designed mainly for interior pieces, and GILD Originals is for interior use only.
We design and develop our premium paints here in Kent, the Garden of England. With the beautiful North Downs on our doorstep, we're inspired to create colours that work in harmony with the natural beauty that surrounds us.
We make paints that are a joy to use.
