Elena Rossi
Painting on vinyl records is a fun and creative way to recycle old records that no longer play. It is important to note that once a record is painted, it can no longer be played, so it is advised to use records from thrift stores or yard sales. Before painting, the record should be wiped down to remove any dust or dirt. A base coat or primer is then applied to ensure the paint adheres properly and does not peel. After the base coat dries, acrylic paint or spray paint can be used to create the desired design. Multiple thin coats are recommended for acrylic paint to avoid streaking. Once the paint is dry, a coat of varnish can be applied for extra protection. The final step is to hang the vinyl creation on the wall and admire your work!
How to cover vinyl records to paint on them
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Painting material | Acrylic paint, spray paint, gesso, primer, varnish |
| Painting tools | Paintbrush, foam brush, rag |
| Painting techniques | Pouring paint, using tape to cover certain areas, applying multiple thin coats |
| Record selection | Old, scratched records from thrift stores or yard sales; do not use records that still play |
| Surface preparation | Wipe the record with a rag to remove dust and dirt, apply gesso or primer as a base coat |
| Drying time | Allow paint to dry completely before adding additional coats or varnish; wait 24-48 hours before applying varnish |
| Additional tips | Cover album info with tape to preserve it, use a pouring medium to thin acrylic paint, varnish as a top coat to protect the paint |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a vinyl record to paint on
Condition of the Record
It is recommended to choose a vinyl record that is already scratched or damaged. Once a record is painted on, it can no longer be played, so you don't want to ruin a record that someone may still want to listen to. It's best to avoid taking a record from someone else's collection, especially if it is in good condition and they may still want to play it. Instead, opt for records that are old, scratched, or damaged, ensuring that you don't diminish the listening pleasure of anyone.
Source of the Record
You can find records to paint on at various places, including thrift stores, yard sales, vintage shops, and nostalgia stores. Thrift stores and yard sales are great options, as you can often find records that are more affordable and may already be scratched or damaged. Vintage and nostalgia stores tend to have curated collections, so the records are usually in better condition and may cost more.
Size and Shape
Consider the size and shape of the vinyl record, especially if you have a specific design or artwork in mind. Records come in different sizes, such as 7-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch, each offering a unique canvas size to work with. Think about the overall composition of your artwork and how it will fit within the circular shape of the record.
Personal Connection
You may also want to choose a record that holds some personal significance or meaning to you. Perhaps it's an album you used to love listening to, or the artwork resonates with you. Adding a personal touch can make the final piece even more special and meaningful.
Number of Records
If you're planning a larger project or a series of artworks, consider the number of records you'll need. Ensure you have enough records to practice and perfect your technique, as well as create your final pieces.
Remember, the most important aspect is to choose a record that you or the owner won't mind altering permanently. By selecting the right vinyl record to paint on, you'll be well on your way to creating a one-of-a-kind work of art!
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Prepping the vinyl record surface
Now, you'll use a medium called gesso to act as a base coat on the vinyl. Gesso will ensure the paint sticks to the vinyl and doesn't peel off. Cover any area that will be painted with your design using gesso. This step can be imperfect and doesn't need more than one coat. Once the gesso is touch-dry, you can begin painting your design.
If you're using acrylic craft paint, it's best to lay down several thin coats instead of one thick, streaky coat. Allow each section to dry a bit before adding the next if your design has overlapping areas. If you're using spray paint, you can spray the entire surface of the record and let it dry before painting on it with a paintbrush for a more detailed design. Alternatively, you can spray paint onto spots of the record for a starry sky or planet effect.
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Using a base coat or primer
When preparing to paint on vinyl records, it is important to use a base coat or primer so that the paint adheres properly. Firstly, use a rag to wipe down the record and remove any dust or dirt. Next, you can apply a base coat or primer. A product called gesso can be used as a base coat on vinyl records. Gesso will ensure that the paint sticks to the vinyl and can be purchased from craft stores. You can also use spray paint and primer, which will also provide a white base coat for your record.
When applying the gesso, you can decide whether your design will cover the entire record, just the black vinyl part, or individual shapes. Apply the gesso to any area that will be painted. This step does not need to be perfect, as the gesso will be covered by paint. Only one coat of gesso is needed, and you can begin painting once it is dry to the touch.
If you are using acrylic craft paint, it is best to lay down several thin coats instead of one thick coat, as thick paint may streak. If your design has overlapping sections, it is best to paint one area at a time, allowing each section to dry before adding the next.
Once you have finished painting, you can add an extra layer of protection by coating the record in varnish. Wait 24-48 hours for the paint to dry before applying varnish. Varnish can be purchased from craft stores, and a matte varnish is a good option to use on vinyl records.
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Painting the vinyl record
Painting vinyl records is a fun way to recycle old records that no longer play and turn them into unique pieces of art. However, it is important to note that once a record has been painted on, it can no longer be played, so it is best to use records from a thrift store or yard sale.
Preparing the Vinyl Record
Before painting, it is important to prep the surface of the vinyl record so that the paint will adhere properly. Use a rag to wipe down the record and remove any dust or dirt. Next, apply a base coat using a medium called gesso. Cover any area that will be painted, this could be the entire record, just the black vinyl part, or individual shapes. Gesso will be entirely covered by paint, so this step can be imperfect and doesn't need more than one coat.
Once the gesso is dry, you can start painting your design. Acrylic craft paint is a good option as it dries fast and sticks to the primer. Apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat to avoid streaks. If your design has overlapping areas, paint one area at a time, allowing each section to dry before adding the next.
If you want quick and even coverage, or a bold, edgy effect, you can use spray paint. You can spray the entire surface of the record or just a few spots to create a cool effect, such as a starry sky or planets.
Finishing the Vinyl Record Artwork
Once all the coats of paint are dry, your vinyl artwork is ready to hang on the wall. If you want to add an extra layer of protection, you can apply a coat of varnish. Wait 24-48 hours for the paint to dry before varnishing. A matte varnish will give your artwork a nice finish.
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Varnishing the vinyl record
Once you have finished painting your vinyl record, you might want to consider varnishing it. Varnishing your vinyl record will add an extra layer of protection and help preserve your artwork. It is best to wait until the paint has been drying for 24–48 hours before adding a varnish coat.
Your local craft store will have a variety of varnishes and topcoats to choose from. A popular choice is a matte varnish, which can be found in the acrylic paint section. When applying the varnish, make sure to paint on a light coat and spread it out evenly over the entire surface of the record. Allow this to dry completely before displaying your artwork.
If you are using a brush to apply the varnish, you can choose between Polymer/Polyurethane varnishes or Mineral Spirit/Solvent-based varnishes. Polymer/Polyurethane varnishes are strictly for use with acrylic paints, while Mineral Spirit/Solvent-based varnishes are suitable for oils and other types of paints. Both types of varnishes come in Gloss, Satin, or Matte finishes. However, keep in mind that satin and matte varnishes will lighten the appearance of darker colours.
Water-based polymer varnishes have a liquid gel consistency and are harder than a normal paint film. They are not designed to protect surfaces that are frequently touched or for outdoor use, even with UV protection. Some companies recommend thinning water-based polymer varnishes before use, as matting agents tend to sink to the bottom. Thinning can help release any foaming but can be time-consuming.
If you prefer to spray on the varnish, all spray-on options are solvent-based. To achieve an impeccable smooth matte surface, practice is key. You can also dilute Golden's Soft Gel Gloss by adding 50% or more water to the gel and brushing it on as an isolation coat. Alternatively, you can spray a 2:1 mixture of Golden GAC-500 to Transparent Airbrush Extender onto the record using an airbrush or spray unit. Allow each coat to dry for at least six hours, and make sure it is no longer tacky before proceeding.
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Frequently asked questions
First, wipe down the record with a rag to remove any dust or dirt. Next, apply a base coat of gesso to the vinyl. If you want to preserve the album info, put tape over it before applying the gesso. Once the gesso is dry, you can begin painting.
Acrylic paint is a good option for vinyl records because it dries quickly and adheres well to the primer. You can also use spray paint for quick, even coverage or a bold, edgy effect.
Once your paint is dry, you can apply a coat of varnish to protect your artwork. Wait at least 24 hours after painting before varnishing, and be sure to spread the varnish evenly over the entire surface of the record.
