Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparing free flowing particles covered with a layer of water glass, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a mixture containing particles to be covered, water and 0.1-5% by weight water glass, calculated on the basis of the weight of the particles, the water glass being dissolved in said mixture, and (b) stirring the mixture mechanically, optionally by supplying heat from an external heat source, and permitting the water to evaporate from the mixture until at least so much water is evaporated that said mixture is no longer sticky. Furthermore, the invention relates to a process for preparing an article with a detailed surface.