Spoiling my pets is practically a hobby, and recently I decided to get crafty and paint some Pet Bowls. My cats, Huckleberry and Floyd, are serious about their hydration, and their current water bowl just wasn’t cutting it in terms of size. I considered a few quick fixes, but none felt quite right. Using a large kitchen mixing bowl seemed a bit mismatched with my décor, and buying a dog bowl (because large cat bowls are surprisingly elusive) risked ending up with something overtly canine-themed. That’s when the idea of painting my own pet bowls sparked.
There are a few essential considerations when you’re thinking about painting pet bowls to ensure they are both beautiful and safe for your furry companions.
First, the material of the bowl is crucial. You need to select bowls made from ceramic or porcelain. These materials are able to withstand the baking process required to set the paint and make it durable and food-safe after painting your pet bowls.
Second, the type of paint is equally important. Oil-based paints are the way to go. While there are paints specifically marketed for ceramics and porcelain, any oil-based paint suitable for oven-curing will work effectively for decorating pet bowls. Ensure that the paint is labeled as non-toxic once cured to guarantee the safety of your pets when they use their new bowls.
Third, size matters when choosing pet bowls. For water, I opted for a 29-ounce bowl, which is a substantial upgrade for my thirsty cats. If you are painting pet bowls for wet food, a smaller size, around 10 ounces, would be more appropriate. To determine the ideal size for your pet, a simple trick is to measure the capacity of their current bowl by filling it with water and using a measuring cup (remember, 1 cup equals 8 ounces). This will give you a good benchmark when selecting new pet bowls to paint.
Mistakes happen, but they are easily fixed when painting pet bowls! Rubbing alcohol is your best friend for correcting any errors before baking. It effectively removes the oil-based paint, allowing you to refine your design until it’s perfect.
For a fun afternoon project, I invited my friend Emily to personalize pet bowls for her cat, Chandler, alongside me. I went for a modern, abstract design in all black for my pet bowls. Within the abstract patterns, I subtly included a paw print, a fish, and the initials “H” and “F” for my cats, adding a personal touch. Emily’s approach was brighter and more cheerful; she created a yellow and red bowl adorned with flowers and suns. We both were thrilled with how our painted pet bowls turned out, and while our cats seemed indifferent (as cats often are!), we know they are enjoying their upgraded dining experience.
Important Note: While these painted pet bowls are technically oven, microwave, and dishwasher safe after baking according to paint instructions, hand washing is highly recommended. This simple step will significantly extend the life and vibrancy of your painted designs, keeping your personalized pet bowls looking fantastic for years to come.
