When you think about crafting, the first thing that comes to mind is working on different types of paper items to make pieces for either display or actual use. But crafting actually covers a wide range of media that also includes non-porous materials, such as vellum, acetate, glass, ceramic, vinyl, and metal. That is why acrylic and enamel paints, StazOn ink pads, and clear superglue are staples on the shopping lists of those who are into art projects.
Crafting with Non-Porous Surfaces
Non-porous materials are those that are unable to absorb gas or liquid. Unlike porous materials, these do not let anything through at all because they do not have any holes that will allow a substance to go in or out. That said, special types of supplies are used to do crafting work on such surfaces to ensure that they stick for a long time and do not get easily wiped or washed off.
These cover a range of smooth and rough materials, including glass, varnished surfaces, leather, and vinyl. Because the ink, glue, or paint cannot “take root” on your surface, there is a risk that whatever you apply can be scratched off or removed after a while. As an artist or crafter, your goal is to ensure that your work lasts for a long time. Without the proper materials and techniques, you might as well say goodbye to your masterpiece after a few days or weeks.
Experts recommend that you use a scouring pad on your surface first just to break up its smooth and shiny texture and create something rough for your glue and color to grip, and then follow with an adhesion primer. When working with acrylic paints, it is recommended that you also apply a little primer to the paint itself to boost its bonding properties. Better yet, go for enamel paint.
Things to Remember About Non-Porous Materials
Glass
Glass is a great non-porous material to paint on because it brings in the ethereal effects of transparency and refraction to your finished product. However, it is also one of the most tricky. Before working on glass, be sure that you clean and dry it thoroughly before applying anything. Experts recommend that you make the surface opaque first, so your medium adheres in a more stable manner. You can do this by applying a thick wash of background color before painting your design on.
Metal
To prepare metal for painting, you need to clean the surface thoroughly to remove the grease and apply a rust-controlling primer. If there’s any peeling paint or rust, remove them. If there are any dents or holes, repair these, too. You can then use a brush or paint sprayer to apply the new coat of paint. For this material, acrylic is the most preferred option.
Different surfaces require different materials and techniques. Before starting on any crafting project, try to understand the type of supplies that you are working with and research on how they interact with one another. Crafting is a tedious but highly rewarding experience once you’ve completed a project. Don’t let your creativity and hard work go to waste by using incorrect products.