When working with acrylic paint on acrylic surfaces, a common question that arises is whether you need to seal the acrylic paint. Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion. It’s a popular medium for artists painting on a variety of surfaces, including canvas, wood, and acrylic. Unlike oil paints which take a long time to cure and dry, acrylic paint dries quickly by evaporation. This makes acrylics ideal for techniques requiring fast drying times. However, the quick-drying nature of acrylics raises questions about sealing and protecting acrylic artworks.
Do you have to seal acrylic paint on acrylic?
The short answer is no, you do not have to seal acrylic paint on an acrylic surface. Acrylic paint bonds very well to acrylic surfaces without the need for a sealant. Here’s why:
- Acrylic paint and acrylic surfaces are both water-based. This makes them compatible and allows the acrylic paint to mechanically and chemically bond as it dries.
- Acrylic paint undergoes a curing process as it dries, where the polymers cross-link together creating a flexible plastic paint film. This makes the finished acrylic paint resistant to water, oils, and chemicals.
- Acrylic paint adheres tightly to acrylic surfaces forming a durable bond. Unlike oils or watercolors, dried acrylic paint does not crack, flake or peel from acrylic surfaces.
So in summary, acrylic paint does not require a sealant or varnish to protect it or adhere it to an acrylic surface. The acrylic polymers in the paint film bind and cure creating a durable, water-resistant paint layer.
Should you seal acrylic paint on acrylic?
While sealing acrylic paint on acrylic is not strictly necessary, there are some advantages to adding a sealant or varnish layer on top:
- Adds a glossy, uniform finish – Sealants like polyurethane or varnish give the painting an even glossy look.
- Increases UV resistance – Sealants protect against fading from sun exposure.
- Provides abrasion resistance – A coating limits scratches and scuffs to the surface.
- Minimizes dust accumulation – Sealants prevent dust build up on the porous acrylic paint.
- Enhances color vibrancy – A coating evens out the sheen and makes colors pop.
So while not mandatory, adding a clear acrylic sealer or spray varnish can improve the look and durability of the acrylic painting. It comes down to the level of protection desired.
What sealant should you use on acrylic paint?
If you choose to seal acrylic paint on acrylic, it’s recommended to use a product designed for acrylics. Here are some good options:
- Acrylic resin or medium – Acrylic polymer sealants are ideal. They offer UV resistance and even finish.
- Acrylic varnish – Either brush-on or spray varnishes formulated for acrylics offer UV protection.
- Archival acrylic spray – Archival sprays designed for acrylic art offer UV protection and prevent yellowing.
Stay away from products not designed for acrylics like wood sealants or non-archival sprays. Make sure to read product labels closely and test a small area first before applying any sealant to the entire acrylic painting.
How to apply an acrylic sealant
Follow these basic steps to properly seal an acrylic painting:
- Allow acrylic paint to cure fully, at least 24 hours. Sealants won’t properly bond if paint not cured.
- Clean painting surface gently with tack cloth to remove dust.
- Work in a well-ventilated area and carefully read product instructions.
- Apply a thin, even layer using soft brushstrokes or light spray action.
- Allow sealant to fully dry as directed on product label before recoating.
- Apply additional coats for higher sheen and protection, allowing proper drying between coats.
Always refer to the specific product label directions. Avoid over-brushing or over-spraying. For spray sealants, keep the can vertical and use light, even passes across the acrylic surface.
Conclusion
While sealing acrylic paint on acrylic surfaces is not strictly required, adding a finish layer can provide added protection and enhance the look of the painting. Acrylic mediums, varnishes and archival sprays designed specifically for acrylics work best as sealants. Carefully following product instructions during application is important. With proper techniques, sealants can increase UV resistance, provide an even glossy finish, and minimize dust accumulation on acrylic paintings.