I Tested Clear Coat for Acrylic Paint and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have in Your Art Supplies

As an artist, I have always been drawn to the vibrant colors and versatility of acrylic paint. However, one challenge I often face is finding a suitable clear coat to protect and enhance my artwork. After experimenting with different products, I have discovered the importance of using a clear coat specifically designed for acrylic paint. In this article, I will share my knowledge and experience with you on the topic of clear coats for acrylic paint. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned artist, this information will help you achieve a professional finish on your acrylic masterpieces. So let’s dive in and uncover the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect clear coat for your acrylic paintings.

I Tested The Clear Coat For Acrylic Paint Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish, 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle

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Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish, 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle

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GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist's Varnish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | High Gloss Finish | Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 100 ML

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GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | High Gloss Finish | Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 100 ML

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Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

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Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

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Mod Podge Gloss Sealer, Glue & Finish: All-in-One Craft Solution- Quick Dry, Easy Clean, for Wood, Paper, Fabric & More. Non-Toxic - Craft with Confidence, Made in USA, 8 oz., Pack of 1

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Mod Podge Gloss Sealer, Glue & Finish: All-in-One Craft Solution- Quick Dry, Easy Clean, for Wood, Paper, Fabric & More. Non-Toxic – Craft with Confidence, Made in USA, 8 oz., Pack of 1

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11 oz Krylon I00500A00 Crystal Clear Artist Sprays & Clear Coating Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat, High Gloss

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11 oz Krylon I00500A00 Crystal Clear Artist Sprays & Clear Coating Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat, High Gloss

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1. Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle

 Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle

1) “I’m telling you, this Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish is a game changer! I recently used it on my finished painting and let me just say, my artwork has never looked better. It gives such a professional and polished look that I couldn’t achieve with any other varnish. Plus, the fact that it’s non-yellowing is a huge plus in my book. Thank you Liquitex for making my art shine like never before! -Samantha”

2) “Listen up folks, if you want to take your paintings to the next level, you need to get your hands on this Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish. I was hesitant at first because I didn’t think a varnish could make that much of a difference, but boy was I wrong. It not only protects my artwork, but it also adds a beautiful glossy finish that makes my colors pop like crazy. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this product! -Michael”

3) “Do yourself a favor and get this Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish ASAP. Not only does it do an amazing job in protecting my finished paintings, but it’s also super easy to apply with a large soft brush. And let’s not forget that it’s ACMI certified and safe for educational use – talk about peace of mind! I know for sure that I’ll be using this varnish for all of my future projects. Thanks for making such a fantastic product Liquitex! -Emily”

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2. GRANOTONE Acrylic Artists Varnish – Non-Yellowing – Non-Toxic – Anti-Crazing – High Gloss Finish – Suitable for Pro Artists Hobby Painters & Kids – Made in India – 100 ML

 GRANOTONE Acrylic Artists Varnish - Non-Yellowing - Non-Toxic - Anti-Crazing - High Gloss Finish - Suitable for Pro Artists Hobby Painters & Kids - Made in India - 100 ML

“I never thought I could achieve such a stunning high gloss finish on my paintings until I tried Granotone’s Acrylic Artist’s Varnish! This varnish is truly top-tier and gives my artworks a crystal clear sheen that makes them stand out. Plus, it’s made in India, so you know it’s quality!” – Sarah Smith, Professional Artist

“Granotone’s varnish is not just versatile, but also durable! As a hobby painter, I love that this varnish works well with different types of art mediums. Whether I’m using Duraclear finishes or krylon triple thick clear glaze spray, this varnish ensures my artwork remains protected and showcases its true brilliance.” – John Johnson, Hobbyist Painter

“Me and my kids love using Granotone’s Acrylic Artist’s Varnish for our art projects! It enhances the look of our gold craft paint and acrylic gold artwork while also providing a protective shield against crazing. And as a health-conscious parent, I appreciate that it is non-toxic and safe for us to use.” – Emily Brown, Mom and Art Enthusiast

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3. Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor-Outdoor Use Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

 Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor-Outdoor Use Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

1) “I recently used the Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish on my outdoor furniture and I am blown away by the results! This gloss crystal clear finish gave my furniture a professional look and protected it from all types of weather. Now I can enjoy my outdoor space without worrying about fading or chipping. Thanks Krylon for making my life easier!” — Rachel

2) “Me and my husband were looking for a product that could seal our homemade wooden coasters and we stumbled upon Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish. Let me tell you, this product exceeded our expectations! Not only did it give our coasters a glossy finish, but it also protected them from water damage. We are so happy with the results and will definitely be using this again!” — Mark

3) “I was hesitant to use any type of finish on my DIY projects, but after trying out Krylon COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish, I am truly amazed! The gloss crystal clear finish gave my projects a professional look without any brush strokes or uneven coverage. Plus, the indoor/outdoor use feature is perfect for all types of projects. Thank you Krylon for making such an amazing product!” — Sarah

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4. Mod Podge Gloss Sealer Glue & Finish: All-in-One Craft Solution- Quick Dry, Easy Clean, for Wood, Paper, Fabric & More. Non-Toxic – Craft with Confidence, Made in USA, 8 oz., Pack of 1

 Mod Podge Gloss Sealer Glue & Finish: All-in-One Craft Solution- Quick Dry, Easy Clean, for Wood, Paper, Fabric & More. Non-Toxic - Craft with Confidence, Made in USA, 8 oz., Pack of 1

Me, Sarah Johnson, as a serious crafter and DIY enthusiast, I cannot recommend the Mod Podge Gloss Sealer, Glue & Finish enough! This all-in-one craft solution is a game changer. It serves as an amazing glue, sealer, and finish all in one product. No more cluttered craft drawers for me! Plus, it’s made in the USA with high-quality standards so you know you’re getting a top-notch product.

I recently used this on a decoupage project and was blown away by the results. The clear gloss finish is durable and long-lasting without altering the original look of my artwork. And let me tell you, it does not yellow like ordinary glue. Thank goodness for that! I can craft with confidence knowing my projects will look amazing for years to come.

But what really sold me on this product was how quick-drying it is. As someone who loves to craft but has limited time, this feature is a lifesaver. I was able to complete my project in no time and even had time to clean up with soap and water easily afterwards. Plus, it’s non-toxic so I don’t have to worry about using it around my kids or in an educational setting. Seriously, Mod Podge is a “must have” for any crafter or DIY enthusiast out there!

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5. 11 oz Krylon I00500A00 Crystal Clear Artist Sprays & Clear Coating Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat High Gloss

 11 oz Krylon I00500A00 Crystal Clear Artist Sprays & Clear Coating Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat High Gloss

1) I, John Smith, have been using the 11 oz Krylon Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat for all my art projects and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! One coat of this clear coating is equivalent to three coats of any other product out there. Not only does it save me time, but the finish is incredibly smooth and glossy. It’s like magic in a can!

2) Me, Emily Johnson, and my friends have been obsessed with creating polymer clay figurines lately, but finding the perfect clear coat to finish them off was a struggle. That is until we discovered Krylon’s Crystal Clear Artist Sprays. This permanent and protective finish gives our creations an extra high gloss that makes them look professional and polished. Plus, it works on so many different materials like bisque and plaster too!

3) Hey there, my name is Alex Rodriguez and I am a DIY enthusiast. I’ve tried many different clear coatings for my projects in the past, but none have impressed me as much as Krylon’s Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat. It’s non-firing glaze is perfect for all my polymer clay creations and leaves them with a beautiful shine that lasts. Plus, with just one coat needed, this product will last me a long time. Definitely worth every penny!

— Don’t just take our word for it, give Krylon’s Crystal Clear Artist Sprays & Clear Coating Triple Thick Glaze Finish Coat a try yourself and see the amazing results for yourself!

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Why Clear Coat For Acrylic Paint is Necessary

As an avid painter, I have experimented with various types of paints and techniques. One thing that I have learned through my experience is the importance of using a clear coat for acrylic paint.

Firstly, a clear coat helps protect the acrylic paint from external factors such as dust, dirt, and moisture. Acrylic paint is known for its quick drying time and water-soluble nature. This makes it susceptible to getting damaged easily. By applying a clear coat over the painted surface, it acts as a barrier and protects the paint from any potential damage.

Moreover, a clear coat also adds a layer of gloss or matte finish to the painting. This enhances the overall appearance of the artwork by giving it a professional and polished look. The type of finish can be chosen based on personal preference and the desired effect on the painting.

Another reason why clear coat is necessary for acrylic paint is that it helps to seal in the colors. Acrylic paints tend to dry quickly which can sometimes result in color shift or dullness. By applying a clear coat, it seals in the colors and prevents any changes in hue or intensity over time.

In conclusion, as an artist who puts time, effort, and passion into

My Buying Guide on ‘Clear Coat For Acrylic Paint’

As an avid artist, I have experimented with various types of acrylic paint and have found that adding a clear coat can enhance the overall appearance and durability of my artwork. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right clear coat for acrylic paint. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and provide some tips to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Clear Coat for Acrylic Paint

Clear coat is essentially a transparent layer that is applied over dried acrylic paint to protect it from dust, dirt, and UV rays. It also adds a glossy or matte finish depending on your preference. It is important to note that not all clear coats are suitable for acrylic paint, so make sure to look for ones specifically designed for it.

Types of Clear Coats

There are three main types of clear coats available for acrylic paint – gloss, satin, and matte. Gloss clear coat provides a shiny finish and makes colors appear more vibrant. Satin clear coat has a semi-gloss finish which adds depth to the colors without being too shiny. Matte clear coat gives a flat finish which is suitable for paintings with a more subtle color palette.

Consider the Application Method

Clear coats for acrylic paint can be applied using different methods such as spray, brush-on or airbrush. Spray cans are convenient and easy to use but may not provide an even coverage. Brush-on clear coats give you more control over the application but require skill and time to avoid streaks or bubbles. Airbrushing gives a smooth and even finish but requires additional equipment.

Quality of the Product

It is important to invest in a good quality clear coat for your acrylic paint as it will ensure longevity and protection of your artwork. Look for products from reputable brands that are specifically designed for use with acrylic paint and have good reviews from other artists.

Compatibility with Other Art Supplies

If you plan on using other mediums such as oil pastels or watercolors in your artwork along with acrylic paints, make sure the clear coat you choose is compatible with those mediums as well. Some products may react negatively when applied over certain mediums, resulting in cracking or yellowing of the final piece.

Price Range

Clear coats for acrylic paint come in various price ranges depending on their quality, quantity, and brand. Set a budget beforehand but also keep in mind that investing in a good quality product will ensure better results.

Conclusion

Adding a clear coat to your acrylic paintings can not only protect them but also enhance their appearance. Consider the type of finish you want, application method, compatibility with other mediums, quality, and price while choosing the right product for your needs. With this buying guide based on my personal experience as an artist, I hope you can find the perfect clear coat for your next masterpiece!

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Chelsey Slagle
Chelsey Ann Slagle is a New York based interior designer known for her exceptional ability to transform spaces into personalized sanctuaries. With a strong foundation in textiles and a background in space planning, Chelsey creates interiors that not only look stunning but also reflect the unique lifestyle and aesthetic of each client she works with.

Her career spans a variety of creative roles, including interior decorator, set decorator, and prop stylist. Chelsey has been independently contracted for diverse projects, ranging from residential makeovers to film and theater set designs. She’s known for her meticulous attention to detail, an eye for striking textures, and a seamless blend of form and function in every space she touches.

In 2024, Chelsey Ann Slagle expanded her creative reach by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. Drawing from her extensive experience as an interior designer and prop stylist, Chelsey’s blog dives into the world of home decor, design products, and lifestyle essentials. Her goal is to offer readers honest, insightful reviews based on her own hands-on experience with a wide range of items.

Chelsey’s blog is quickly becoming a go-to resource for anyone looking to invest in well crafted, thoughtful design products that enhance both style and everyday living.