Oil Paint Pens on Float Glass

Well now, that’s interesting. The black lines disappeared completely, all the other colors stayed. These pens were all solid opaque colors, but I also tested some gold and silver metallic pens:

For this test I drew the same design in gold on one piece of glass, and silver on the other and then rotated one so they were opposite. I think that the metallic pens have some real possibilities for actual design.

After the tests looked good, I decided to try some actual glass art pieces. I started with a kiln carving pattern and added some glass:

I started by painting the gray parts of the pattern with an opaque oil paint pen (knowing that it would turn white when fired)

After the green was dry, I filled in around the edges with silver oil paint pen:

After the whole heart was filled in, I added another layer of glass and fused the whole thing flat. I should note here, make sure you work in a well ventilated space, the fumes are a little strong from the oil paint.

Interesting, you can see the two tones of paint, although it’s very subtle. Here is the final piece cold worked and slumped.

There are certainly possibilities there, particularly for layered metallics and the opaque white. I’d like to try it on glass with a color.

Conclusions:

• Could be used for adding signatures to artwork prior to firing
• Could be used for adding dates and names to custom ornaments or trinkets
• Could be used for adding slogans and quips to artwork
• TEST before you use any oil paint pen on an artwork, apparently not all pens are the same!

Safety:

• Use in open well ventilated area, a mask for organic vapors is a good idea
• read and follow safety guidelines on the paint pens