Paint projects are so diverse. And with that, the many diverse paint types. One particular special use would be when you want paint to be seen in the dark. Here are some best practices in this case, and some of the best glow in the dark paint options for when you’re looking to buy some for your project.
How to Use Glow in the Dark Paint
Glow in the dark paint is a fun and interesting avenue for many art projects, as well as for fun times going out with friends, but as with many such unique applications, certain considerations are needed.
For one, you should note that because most of the glow you see is actually reflected light, the lighter the background color that is under the paint, the brighter the glow will appear. You can test this out. That doesn’t mean lighter colors underneath are always better or worse; it’s just a matter of what type of look you are going for.
When you are painting with glow in the dark paint, you might notice that the first couple of applications of the paint can barely be seen, it is practically invisible. It may take several layers until you begin to see it with the naked eye. That is normal. Using a blacklight while you are painting will help let you know how it will look in the dark. You also would benefit from using a blacklight (or UV LED flashlight) while painting to check the evenness of the paint and generally check yourself in other ways mid-paint, while it is still drying.
When you are using several coats, you want to let it dry for at least 10 or so minutes before applying a new coat of paint. If you don’t let it dry fully, you might actually lose some of the glow that can be expected from the previous coat. You don’t have to use more than one coat, but you will find that it gets brighter and brighter with more coats.
As for charging the paint, regular household light won’t charge it very well or fast. Typically people choose to charge it with sunlight or several alternatives such as UV or black lights.
Best Glow in the Dark Paint
Art ‘N Glow Artist’s Acrylic Glow In The Dark Paint with Charging Light
Description: “Each order includes FOUR fluid ounces of glow paint made from premium acrylic paint and strontium aluminate glow powder, the brightest, longest lasting glow in the dark technology available anywhere. EACH 4 oz. jar also includes a FREE UV LED keychain charging light that will have you glowing in seconds. Our neutral glow paints dry clear for at least the first few coats so they are great for embellishing traditional paintings.”
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FolkArt Neon Glow Acrylic Paint
Description: “This versatile glowing and neon acrylic paint set includes 8 – 2 oz bottles of vivid, colorful and glowing craft paint. The colors in this kit include: four neon colors: neon pink, neon orange, neon blue, neon green and four glow in the dark colors: neutral glow, green glow, yellow glow, and pink glow. This brilliant acrylic paint dries to a smooth vibrant finish, perfect for adding a pop of color and glow to all your arts and crafts! Use this bright acrylic paint on a variety of surfaces such as wood, paper, canvas, Styrofoam, paper mache, and so more.”
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Neon Nights 2-In-1 Paint
Description: “Our neon paint glows brilliantly in the dark but can also easily be seen in daylight to make any arts & crafts project stand out.
These self-luminous, phosphorescent neon acrylic paints charge best under direct sunlight for a bright, memorable glow that will captivate your audience.
Our glow paint works on most surfaces including canvas, wood, plastic, and metal (not to be used as paint supplies on fabric, textiles, face, or body).”
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Midnight Glo UV Reactive Body & Face Paint
Description: “Ideal for black light birthday parties, clubbing, festivals, and anywhere with UV lighting, this blacklight reactive paint glows brightly under the proper UV lighting. It is premium quality with creamy texture that goes on smooth.”
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3D Fabric Paint, Fluorescent, Metallic, Glitter & Glow in the Dark – Set of 30
This one is not entirely glow-in-dark paints, but a mix of glow-in-the-dark paints, florescent, metallic, and glitter paints. For many projects, the mix of them could become a unique effect.
Description: “Whether you’re looking to make professional designs or you’re just starting out with fabric art, these fabric paint tubes are great for artists of all levels. They can be applied to a wide range of clothing, including t-shirts, hoodies, and jeans. You’ll get a wide range of colors to choose from, including glitter, fluorescent, metallic and glow-in-the-dark shades. From detailed portraits to abstract designs, there are so many things you can do with this versatile paint.”
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Photo by Joshua Rondeau on Unsplash
Last Updated on March 14, 2022.