How to Seal Acrylic Paint on Glass

Glass Painting

It is highly recommended that all paintings be sealed including any paint put on glass. Sealing protects the painting from dust, dirt, smudging and normal wear and tear. Additionally, sealing protects the painting from the ultraviolet lights that can damage the art and cause the colors to fade.

Things You'll Need

• Acrylic solution varnish Paint brush

Instructions

1. Decide if you want a permanent or removable varnish. Most people choose permanent unless they plan on removing the paint at a later date and painting something new on the glass.

2. Decide whether you want a gloss finish or a matte finish. Gloss finishes have a higher shine. Matte finishes are duller.

3. Purchase your acrylic varnish at a craft store or online from Rex Art (see Resources section). The varnish costs between $8 and $48 a bottle depending on the size you need. A small glass vase would only need a small 8 oz. bottle while painting a few windows would require a larger bottle.

4. Choose a brush based on the size of the area you need to apply the varnish too. Larger brushes allow for more coverage but aren't as effective for detail work.

5. Dip the brush in the varnish and beginning applying in the top left-hand corner. Move your brush to the right. Move down to the next line and again brush from left to right. Continue until you have painted all the way to the bottom right-hand corner. Make sure you only apply a small layer of the varnish. Thick layers are harder to work with.

6. Allow the varnish time to dry. This depends on the size of your glass. When the varnish dries apply a second and final coat. You can expect a small vase to dry in three hours, but a large window can take up to 12 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply your varnish when the temperature is at least 60 degrees or warmer. This way you can be sure the varnish will stick and dry. If the varnish is too thick you can dilute it with water up to 20 percent and it will still be effective.

• Don't apply the varnish until three days after you have finished painting your glass. Do not use a roller to apply the varnish.

Resources

• Rex Art Acrylic Varnishes