How to Paint Light Bulbs

Thinking Outside the Bulb: Using Light Bulbs for Decoration

Light bulbs can be decorative as well as practical. One way to use light bulbs as decoration is by coloring light bulbs using paint so that they emit different colors of light.

Home improvement stores carry a few basic colored light bulbs, such as blue, green or red. If the color you are looking for is unavailable, or if you want to be creative, painting a light bulb is just the project for you.

Painting a light bulb is an easy and inexpensive way to transform a room. The easiest way to paint a light bulb is to coat it in one solid color. This will give the room a soft glow in the hue of your choice. For added character, you can paint the light bulb in several different colors so that a blend of shades will be seen.

Because painting light bulbs is so easy, crafty individuals treat light bulbs as a small canvas. Tiny shapes or spheres are popular designs that can be painted on light bulbs, especially for those who enjoy hosting parties and festivities. Painted light bulbs also make great gifts and come painted in holiday or birthday themed scenery.

Why Paint a Light Bulb?

How to Paint Light BulbsMost people who choose to paint light bulbs want to produce light in a different color. This is an inexpensive, easy and mess-free way to change the look of a room. You don’t need to be tech savvy or even creative to pull this project off, and painting light bulbs is a great way to personalize the look of kids and teens rooms.

Another reason why painting light bulbs is a popular project is because they can be given as gifts that are both budget-friendly and personal. Someone who loves birds can receive a bird painted light bulb, while a birthday-themed bulb can have the person’s name and balloons painted on. Best of all, when the light bulbs are installed, they display the artwork in a distorted, yet creative way.

Painted light bulbs are also ideal for nightlights, especially in baby and kids rooms. They also make great decorative garden lights that resemble the look of flowers or simply add a soft, colorful glow to the outdoor area. With the endless possibilities and simplicity of this project, painting light bulbs is a great family activity, encouraging kids to get involved with hands-on projects and gift giving.

Light bulbs do not have to be working to make great gifts or additions to the home, however. Painted light bulbs are used in kids art projects to make flowers, hanging ornaments or stained glass. They can be painted with a special token of remembrance, such as that of a favorite sports team, memorable occasion or even handed out as Eco-friendly wedding favors.

Choosing a Light Bulb and Paint

Before getting started, decide if you will be painting a working light bulb or one that is burnt out. This will determine which types of paint you can use on your light bulb.

For bulbs that still work, you will need to buy a special paint that is made for glass and can be baked in the oven. If you cannot find this type of paint, choose one that is non-water based, otherwise it will evaporate off the bulb when it becomes heated.

For a burnt out bulb that will serve as a decorative item, you can choose an acrylic or water-based paint. For the best results, choose a clear light bulb, as they allow the colors to vibrantly shine through. White light bulbs will work, but may distort or weaken the brightness of the colors.

Preparing a Light Bulb for Painting

Clean the light bulb using a gentle microfiber cloth, removing any dust or debris. To help the paint stick, you can place a few dabs of rubbing alcohol onto the cloth. You will need to secure the light bulb so that it stands up and is sturdy enough to paint on.

One way to do this is by clamping the base to the table or countertop. If you do not have a clamp handy, consider using a putty-like material to secure the base of the light bulb into. As a last resort, you can hold the light bulb in your hand, painting one side at a time. It's more tedious, but it works.

Painting a Light Bulb on Both Working and Burnt Out Bulbs

Once secured, you can begin painting the light bulb. Because this is a simple and cost-effective project, choose to paint several light bulbs to keep on hand, whether it be for replacements as the bulbs burn out or for additional gifts. If choosing to paint the bulb one solid color, use a brush to gently apply the paint in the color of your choice. Or choose to mix colors together to create a unique hue for your room.

If choosing to paint a scene on the light bulb, you can paint a background color for your setting. Apply one coat of paint and allow it to dry. Then paint your scenery as you wish, either by freehand or using stencils as a guide. Keep in mind that your painting job does not have to be perfect; the design will appear vague and distorted on your walls and ceiling.

Paint can be applied to your light bulb using any method you choose, include a large or small brush, sponge or makeup wedges. Each painting tool will provide a different look, so the best option is to experiment with different painting methods. Most importantly, make sure that you are gentle while painting the bulb so that it does not crack or break.

Adding the Finishing Touches

The light bulb will need at least 4 hours to dry, so either set a timer or let the bulb dry overnight. As long as your light bulb is secure, you can leave it as is. If you painted your light bulb in-hand, hang the bulb upside down to dry. When completed, any bulbs painted with glass paint will need to be baked in the oven. Read the directions that came with the paint for exact times and temperatures. Non-water based paints will dry on their own and do not need to be baked.

Enjoying Your Painted Light Bulb

What you choose to do next with your light bulb is up to you; you can package it up and use it as a gift, or install it into a light socket right away. Make sure that when installing your painted light bulb, the light switch is turned off beforehand. When the bulb is installed and turned on, you will be pleasantly surprised at just how much a room can be altered just by the look of a colored light bulb. Consider this newfound project as a great addition to your home improvement needs.

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