When it comes to DIY projects, especially those that involve a bit of creativity and fun, Rust-Oleum’s Glow in The Dark paint might seem like a perfect pick.
With promises of a glowing effect on various surfaces, this paint sounds like a magical addition to your craft arsenal. But, before you rush to your nearest store or click ‘buy now’ online, let’s take a closer look at what you’re getting into.
I’ll share my personal experience with the product, the pros and cons, and how it stacks up against other similar paints on the market.
My Experience With Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint
I was excited to use Rust-Oleum’s Glow in The Dark paint for a few craft projects around the house. The idea of having glowing stars on my kids’ ceiling or a fun glow-in-the-dark sign for the backyard sounded like a great way to add a unique touch to our space.
However, my excitement quickly turned into frustration.
- Application Process
Applying the paint was a task in itself.
The instructions are straightforward—shake the can well and apply to a clean, dry, white or light-colored surface.
Easy enough, right?
Well, not quite. I found that the paint tended to clump inside the can, making it difficult to stir and apply evenly.
This wasn’t just a minor inconvenience; it significantly affected the outcome.
It took a lot of effort to get the paint mixed properly, and even then, the consistency wasn’t ideal.
After several coats, the paint did start to show a glow, but it wasn’t as vibrant as I had hoped. Even after charging the paint under natural sunlight and artificial light sources, the glow was faint and faded quickly.
I was left feeling disappointed, especially given the effort it took to apply the paint.
Pros of Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint
Let’s start with what Rust-Oleum’s Glow in The Dark paint does right.
- Versatile Application: You can use this paint on various surfaces like wood, metal, plaster, masonry, and even unglazed ceramic. This makes it a versatile choice for different DIY projects.
- Fast Drying: The paint dries to the touch in about 45 minutes, which is fairly quick. This can be a plus if you’re working on a project with multiple layers.
- Ease of Cleanup: Cleanup is straightforward—just soap and water. This is a relief, especially if you’re working with kids or on a large project.
- Indoor Use: The paint is designed for indoor use, so it’s perfect for projects like bedroom ceilings, indoor signs, or craft projects that don’t need to withstand outdoor conditions.
Cons of Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint
Unfortunately, the cons seem to outweigh the pros with this product.
- Weak Glow: The glow effect is minimal, even after charging under strong light sources. It’s barely noticeable and doesn’t last long. In my experience, it glowed for about 30 minutes, far less than the advertised two hours.
- Inconsistent Application: The paint clumps inside the can, making it difficult to stir and apply evenly. This can lead to a patchy glow effect, which isn’t ideal for any project.
- Limited Outdoor Use: Although the product doesn’t explicitly state that it’s for indoor use only, it doesn’t hold up well outdoors. The glow effect quickly fades, and the paint seems to degrade faster when exposed to the elements.
- High Maintenance: To keep the glow effect going, you’ll need to recharge it frequently by exposing it to light. This can be a hassle, especially if your project is in a location that doesn’t get a lot of direct light.
Tips For Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint
If you do decide to use Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark paint, there are a few tips to help you get the best results possible:
- Use a White or Light-Colored Base: The paint works best on white or very light-colored surfaces. If your project isn’t naturally light, consider applying a white base coat first.
- Apply Multiple Coats: One coat isn’t going to cut it. You’ll need at least three to four coats to see any significant glow. Be patient and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Charge It Properly: The paint needs to be charged under strong light sources—natural sunlight works best. If that’s not possible, use a strong artificial light source, like a UV lamp.
- Store Properly: Store the paint in a cool, dry place. This will help prevent clumping inside the can and ensure that the paint remains usable for future projects.
- Consider a Top Coat: If you’re using this paint outdoors, a clear top coat might help protect it from the elements and prolong the glow effect.
How Does Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint Compare To Other Brands?
When it comes to glow-in-the-dark paints, Rust-Oleum isn’t the only option out there. Here’s how it compares to a few other popular brands:
1. DecoArt Americana Glow-in-the-Dark Paint
- Glow Intensity: DecoArt offers a brighter glow that lasts longer than Rust-Oleum, making it a better choice for projects where the glow effect is crucial.
- Ease of Use: This paint has a smoother application process with fewer issues related to clumping or uneven coverage.
- Durability: While both are intended for indoor use, DecoArt seems to hold up better over time without frequent recharging.
2. FolkArt Glow-in-the-Dark Paint
- Glow Intensity: FolkArt’s glow is comparable to Rust-Oleum but slightly better in terms of longevity. It’s also easier to charge and maintain.
- Ease of Use: FolkArt’s formula is smoother, making it easier to apply evenly without clumping.
- Versatility: This brand is also versatile, suitable for a variety of surfaces, but like Rust-Oleum, it’s best for indoor projects.
3. Krylon Glowz Glow-in-the-Dark Paint
- Glow Intensity: Krylon’s Glowz is known for a strong initial glow, but it fades quickly, similar to Rust-Oleum. However, it is slightly easier to apply without the clumping issues.
- Ease of Use: Krylon’s spray application is a bit more convenient for larger projects, but the coverage isn’t as consistent as it could be.
- Durability: Like Rust-Oleum, Krylon’s Glowz is more suitable for indoor projects and doesn’t hold up well under outdoor conditions.
Where To Buy Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint?
First things first, if you’re determined to try this paint despite the mixed reviews, you can find it at most major hardware stores or online retailers like Amazon, Home Depot, or Walmart.
Be sure to shop around for the best price and read those customer reviews—they’ll give you a pretty good idea of what to expect.
Final Thoughts On Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint
In summary, Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark paint is a product that comes with its share of challenges.
While it offers some versatility in terms of application and ease of cleanup, the overall performance leaves much to be desired.
The glow effect is minimal and short-lived, and the application process can be frustrating due to clumping inside the can.
If you’re looking for a strong, long-lasting glow, you might be better off exploring other brands like DecoArt or FolkArt.
That said, if you’re set on using Rust-Oleum for a small indoor project and are willing to put in the extra effort to achieve the desired effect, it could still be worth a try.
Just be prepared for the possibility that the final result may not meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In my experience, the glow from Rust-Oleum’s Glow in The Dark paint lasts about 30 minutes to an hour at best, far less than the advertised two hours. The intensity of the glow fades quickly, so it’s not ideal for projects where a long-lasting effect is crucial.
Glow-in-the-dark paint does work, but the effectiveness varies widely depending on the brand and application. Rust-Oleum’s version does glow, but the effect is minimal and short-lived. Other brands, like DecoArt, offer a brighter and longer-lasting glow.
The lifespan of glow-in-the-dark paint can vary based on how it’s stored and the conditions it’s exposed to. Generally, it’s recommended to use the paint within a year of purchase for the best results. Once applied, the glow effect will gradually diminish over time, especially if the paint is exposed to sunlight or harsh conditions.
From my research and experience, DecoArt Americana Glow-in-the-Dark paint seems to offer the longest-lasting glow. It holds its glow longer than Rust-Oleum and other similar products, making it a better choice for projects where longevity is important.
Conclusion: Should You Buy Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark Paint?
After spending time with Rust-Oleum Glow in The Dark paint, I can’t wholeheartedly recommend it. While it might work for very small, indoor projects that don’t require a strong or long-lasting glow, there are better options available.
Brands like DecoArt and FolkArt offer superior performance in terms of glow intensity, ease of application, and durability. If you’re looking for a glow-in-the-dark paint that really shines, I’d suggest exploring those alternatives before settling on Rust-Oleum.