Faux Finishes Ideas, Glass Painting

Like most artists, professional glass painter, Julie Jacobs can't remember a time when art was not part of her life. Although she had no formal training as an artist, Jacobs was always interested in paining and experimenting with different mediums for her artwork. After painting designs on everything from t-shirts and glassware to canvas chairs and wooden jewelry boxes, Jacobs was encouraged by friends and family to start a business and sell her creations. "At first, I started out at private home parties where I would have a chance to meet with guests and see what they liked," says Jacobs. After just a few shows like these, Jacobs saw that her painted glassware was the most sought after of all her designs. "I knew that I wouldn't have time or room in my home to concentrate on too many different types of objects that can be painted," Jacobs recalls, "So I decided to devote my efforts to what customers wanted."

For application on glass, Jacobs works exclusively with enamel paint. To properly prepare the surface, Jacobs machine washes all glassware and allows it to air dry. After the glass is completely dry, Jacobs brushes alcohol on the surface to make sure all soap residue and oils are removed. "It's important not to touch the surface with your hands since glass picks up oils from the skin," says Jacobs. After the alcohol has evaporated, Jacobs applies colors that she has mixed herself. Following application, Jacobs "heat sets" the finished product to protect the designs from chipping and cracking.

Three years after her first show at a friend's home, Jacobs' glass creations, ranging from goblets and plates, to vases and mirrors, are featured at art shows, galleries and antique dealers. Jacobs has also created works of art in many clients' homes based on the floral designs featured on her glass items. "Some customers have asked me to design similar motifs on fireplace mantles and bathroom vanities," says Jacobs.

Jacobs is currently working on a catalog of her popular glass designs. Her work is featured in the January 23 issue of Paint DeCor, a Better Homes & Gardens publication. She can be reached by e-mail, DesignbyJJ@Hotmail.com, and also has a toll-free number, 866-690-4094.