When thinking of decorating any type of pottery or dish, it's important to know whether you intend to use it at all, or if it's simply for decoration. This is especially important if you are going to decorate your own ceramic goblet. If you intend to use it, then it's important to make sure any paints, glazes, etc- are non-toxic and safe for use with all beverages.
Certain paints and glazes are toxic, when used with ANY type of liquid or food, others are only toxic if used with wine or acidic beverages or food. Make sure you read paint and glaze labels carefully before purchasing them, to ensure you are purchasing the correct types.
A ceramic goblet can simply be glazed with a clear glaze and the original pottery color can be seen through it, or you can paint it one solid color and then do a clear glaze over it. This is especially good if you intend on actually using the goblet. If you'd like, you can do a floral design on the outer bowl of the goblet or any other type of pattern- this is especially pretty if you intend on displaying it.
Whether you want to paint it in "olden style" or make it a more modern piece, that's up to you- but plan ahead beforehand, and even sketch any designs on the outside before beginning to paint, this way you are less likely to make a mistake that would require you to repaint it.
Some especially pretty goblets can be seen at medieval and Renaissance fairs or festivals, they are usually painted to look "old" and then Celtic or other medieval designs are then painted or etched onto them.
Things such as feathers, gemstones, rhinestones, stones or even seashells can be affixed to the outside of the goblet with hot glue or even some sort of "super" glue. These types of decorations are best if you use them on ceramic goblets only intended for decoration or display- feathers, stones, etc, won't wash well and will come off if overly hot or cold liquids are put in the goblet.
If you aren't wanting to do anything that matches any sort of pattern or "decor", then you can use plain paint and make up your own designs. The sky's the limit when it comes to decorating your own stuff, that's the great part of craft and art projects- you can make them however you like.
If you've made the goblet yourself, from the very beginning, then you likely already have an idea of what you're going to do with it, if not- then you can peruse glassware and pottery websites, and even stencil-design websites that will give you some ideas as to what you can do to decorate your ceramic goblet.
Stenciling, "tie-dye" style and even just plain stripes in different colors can be stunning and beautiful but the choice is yours, use your imagination!
Lucy Bushman is an accomplished niche website developer and author.
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