Rust-Oleum Vs. Krylon Mirror Glass Paint: Which Is Better?
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When looking for a product to achieve the perfect mirror-like finish on your glass, you need to consider the different features of each product.
Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect is an acrylic paint that comes in various colors and finishes, while Krylon Looking Glass is an acrylic paint specifically designed for glass surfaces. So, which one is the better mirror spray paint? Let’s find out!
Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect
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Rust-Oleum transforms clear glass into a highly reflective mirror-like surface with just a few sprays. Paint on the reverse side of the glass to achieve a faux mercury glass finish on your vases and other ornamental glass.
Krylon Looking Glass Paint
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Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect vs. Krylon Looking Glass
Price and Value - Depends on the Work Area
At first glance, Rust-Oleum is way more affordable at less than $8 for a 6-oz canister compared with Krylon sold at more than $18 per 6-oz can, especially if you're working on a small area only. If working on a larger site, though, you get more value from Krylon.
Usage - Winner: Rust-Oleum
If you're looking for glass paint or one that can turn acrylic or glass into mercury glass, take the Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect Spray Paint because it works on several surfaces. It is safe to assume that Krylon works only for glass since it has not specified its other uses.
Drying time - Winner: Krylon
Rust-Oleum dries in 10 minutes while Krylon Looking Glass Paint transforms clear glass into mirror glass in 5 minutes.
Coverage - Winner: Krylon
DIY Mirror glass candleholders made with mirror spray paint - Image by Sarah Tran
Rust-Oleum covers only 4 sqft per 6-oz can, but Krylon covers 15 sq ft. When working on larger areas, you get more value with the Krylon Looking Glass Paint.
Application - It’s a Tie!
Both spray paints are aerosol, so it's tied for this category.
Opacity - Winner: Rust-Oleum
DIY Antique mirror made with mirror effect paint - Image by Jenna Sue
Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect Spray Paint has a slightly opaque finish, while Krylon Looking Glass Spray Paint is more translucent, so if you want more coverage, Rust-Oleum is your best bet between the two.
Finish - Winner: Rust-Oleum
Related to the opacity of these mirror finish spray paints is the finish. Rust-Oleum's finish is much more refined compared with the mottled effect of Krylon when taken closer. While both can turn a clear glass into a highly reflective mirror-like finish when looked at from a distance, the real difference comes when you're closer to the same.
Mirror Glass Paint FAQ
1. What kind of paint do you use on glass mirrors?
Acrylic paint and water-based enamel craft paints are suitable for painting a mirror because they allow liquids to be "buffed" off when dry. However, acrylic paint needs time to cure before it is safe against liquids or touching, whereas with enamel, you can wash the material as soon as it cures.
2. Can mirror glass be painted?
Painting glass is a delicate, detailed task. The paint can peel off of the surface or chip away if not handled with care and skill.
The secret is cleaning your glass properly with an all-purpose glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol and paper towel or lint-free rag. This step removes all forms of grime, dirt, or dust that may affect the quality of your finished project.
3. Is there a paint that looks like a mirror?
Yes, you can use Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect and Krylon Looking Glass to achieve the mirror effect. But if you're looking for a finer, highly reflective, and opaque finish, you can try metallic silver leaf with a leaf adhesive.
Conclusion
The Rust-Oleum and Krylon Looking Glass can turn your acrylic or clear glass into mirror glass in minutes after you spray on the reverse side. Both mirror spray paints have merits, so it’s up to you to decide which works best.
Use Rust-Oleum Mirror Effect Spray Paint if:
- You're working on small areas only.
- You work with multiple surfaces.
- You want an opaque finish with your sprayed glass.
Use Krylon Looking Glass Paint if:
- You're working on a large surface.
- You want a faster output.
- You're ok with the translucent effect.
Does mirror reflective paint come in colors besides silver and gold?