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Is Acrylic-Painted Pottery Food Safe, Dishwasher Safe & Oven Safe?

When it comes to painting ceramic bisque with acrylic paints, we know how rewarding it can be to create your own masterpiece – whether it’s a puffin, a fox, a mushroom or a beautiful woodland-themed plate. One of the most common questions we get from our ArtyPax customers is:


  • Can I put my finished piece in the oven or dishwasher?

  • Is acrylic painted pottery food safe after painting?


If you're asking the same, this blog post is here to help! Let’s clear up some common myths and give you practical, safe alternatives for caring for your painted pottery.


What Is Ceramic Bisque?

Ceramic bisque plate ready to be painted

At ArtyPax, all of our pottery kits are made from ceramic bisque – that means the pottery has already

been fired once in a kiln and is ready to be painted. Bisque pottery is porous, allowing it to absorb paint easily – making it the perfect surface for water-based acrylic paints.


However, when using acrylic paints, they’re not glazed or re-fired after painting, so they’re decorative pieces – ideal for creative hobbies, home décor, gifting and craft activities.


Can You Put Acrylic Painted Pottery in the Oven?

Oven in a domestic kitchen

Short answer: No, not safely or effectively.


There’s a common myth online that you can “cure” acrylic painted ceramics by baking them in the oven. This only applies to specialist bakeable paints or ceramic-specific markers – not standard craft acrylics.


Why not?

  • Acrylic paints are water-based and not designed to be oven-cured.

  • Heating acrylic paint may cause it to bubble, crack or release fumes.

  • It won’t improve durability and could damage your artwork or pottery.


Solution:

Instead of baking, protect your painted pottery by sealing it with a water-based acrylic varnish or sealer. We recommend using a clear gloss or matte decoupage sealer, spray sealer, or brush-on varnish that’s suitable for unglazed acrylics. Such as Mod Podge or water based Yacht varnish.


Can You Wash Acrylic Painted Ceramics in the Dishwasher?

Dishwasher with plates in

Short answer: Not recommended.


Acrylic-painted pottery that hasn’t been kiln-glazed is not dishwasher safe. Water, heat and detergent will weaken the paint, cause it to peel or fade, and may even damage the bisque surface over time.


Why?

  • Acrylic paints can be removed with scrubbing if not sealed properly.

  • Dishwasher temperatures are high and can cause paint to lift or blister.


Solution:

  • If you absolutely must wash it, do so very gently by hand, using a soft cloth and mild soap.

  • Never soak the piece or use abrasive sponges.



Is Acrylic Painted Pottery Food Safe?

Plate with cutlery and herbs

Short answer: No, not unless treated by a professional.


Regular craft acrylic paints, while non-toxic, are not classed as food safe – especially when applied to a porous bisque surface that hasn’t been kiln-glazed. Even sealed surfaces can wear down over time with use and washing.


Why?

  • Bisque absorbs paint and can retain bacteria.

  • Acrylic paints may leach if in contact with food or drink. Plus oils and grease form food can penetrate the painted surface and stain your design.

  • Varnishes and sealers are typically not food grade.


Solution:

  • Use your painted plates and mugs for decorative purposes only, such as display pieces or keepsakes (think wall décor, pen pots & dried flower vases).

  • If you want to create a food-safe ceramic, we recommend using ceramic glazes and kiln firing to cone 06 (local community kilns may be able to help you).

  • If you still would like to use food with your painted piece, like a plate for example. Then use wrapped foods (such as little cakes in foil trays or wrapped sweets in a bowl) and use greaseproof paper/clingfilm over your piece for added protection.


Tips for Long-Lasting Painted Ceramics


  • Use high-quality acrylic paints designed for craft use. Artist grade acrylics are used within our paint strips.

  • Seal your work with a water based clear acrylic varnish (matte, satin or gloss). Your choice of finish & applications (spray or brush on).

  • Keep pieces away from direct heat, moisture, and UV light. This will make them last for many years.

  • Treat finished items as decorative unless professionally glazed. One off decorations unique to your home.


Ready to Get Creative?


At ArtyPax, we provide beautifully designed nature-inspired paint your own ceramic kits, perfect for relaxing at home, family crafts and thoughtful handmade gifts. While our kits are intended for indoor decorative use (they can be prepared for outdoor too), they are an eco-conscious, artistic and fun way to enjoy creativity without the need for a kiln!



If you have any questions about how to care for your ArtyPax pottery, feel free to reach out to us or follow us on social media for tips, inspiration and customer creations!


No kiln needed | Kiln Free Pottery Painting | Supports Nature

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