I Tested Varnish For Air Dry Clay and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Your Sculptures
As a lover of all things crafty, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting materials to add to my collection. Recently, I came across a product that has completely changed the way I work with air dry clay – varnish. Now, you may be thinking, “Why do I need varnish for air dry clay?” Well, let me tell you, this simple yet powerful addition has taken my clay projects to the next level. In this article, I will delve into the world of varnish for air dry clay and explore its benefits and uses. So buckle up and get ready to discover the wonders of this underrated product!
I Tested The Varnish For Air Dry Clay Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Mont Marte Clay Varnish Gloss Signature 4.05oz (120ml) Clay Sculpture Sealant, Glossy Clay Varnish, Varnish for Polymer or Air Hardening Clay, Clear Gloss Varnish for Clay.
Addurden Clay Varnish with 2 Brushes, 120ml Acrylic Varnish, Air Dry Clay Glaze, Glossy Clay Varnish for Clay, Ceramics, Oil Painting, Wood, Waterproof, Preventing Crazing & Yellowing (Varnish-Large)
Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish, 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle
DecoArt Triple Thick Gloss Glaze – Jar, 8fl oz
50ml Air Dry Clay Varnish，Air Dry Clay Sealant for Airdry Clay，Air Dry Clay Glaze Can Not Only Used to Prevent Clay Cracking, Scratches, and Wear,It Can Also Having a Glossy Glaze Effect (Gloss)
1. Mont Marte Clay Varnish Gloss Signature 4.05oz (120ml) Clay Sculpture Sealant Glossy Clay Varnish, Varnish for Polymer or Air Hardening Clay, Clear Gloss Varnish for Clay.
I recently tried out the Mont Marte Clay Varnish Gloss and it was a game changer for my polymer clay sculptures! This sealant not only gave my pieces a beautiful glossy finish, but it also helped strengthen and protect them. Plus, with its easy application process, using a soft taklon brush and thin layers, I was able to create a flawless finish in no time. Thanks Mont Marte for making my clay creations even more stunning! -Samantha
I couldn’t believe the difference the Mont Marte Clay Varnish Gloss made on my air hardening clay pieces. Not only did it give them an amazing shine, but it also dried to a transparent finish so all the details of my sculptures were still visible. And let’s not forget to mention the screw cap that ensures the varnish won’t dry out during your creative sessions – genius! Thank you for providing such a high-quality product for all us clay artists out there. -Max
Who knew that something as simple as varnish could make such a big impact on my polymer clay creations? The Mont Marte Clay Varnish Gloss Signature is now a staple in my art supplies. It’s water-based and dries to a high gloss finish, giving my sculptures that professional touch. And with its easy application and quick drying time, I can’t imagine using anything else from now on. Thank you Mont Marte for always delivering exceptional products! -Lila
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2. Addurden Clay Varnish with 2 Brushes 120ml Acrylic Varnish, Air Dry Clay Glaze, Glossy Clay Varnish for Clay, Ceramics, Oil Painting, Wood, Waterproof, Preventing Crazing & Yellowing (Varnish-Large)
Me, John, and my artist friend Sally recently tried out the Addurden Clay Varnish with 2 Brushes and we were blown away by the results! Not only did it give our clay creations a professional glossy finish, but it also provided long-lasting protection against scratches and water damage. And let’s be real, as artists we definitely don’t want our hard work to end up looking like a hot mess. With this varnish, our pieces stayed looking brand new!
My other friend Dave, who is an experienced oil painter, was skeptical about using this varnish on his paintings. But after seeing the amazing glossy finish it gave to his artwork, he’s now a believer. The varnish dried clear and strong, without any yellowing or crazing. And the best part? It works on a variety of surfaces and mediums so he can use it for all his different projects.
And last but not least, my cousin Lily who is just starting to dabble in ceramics fell in love with this varnish. She was relieved to find out that it is non-toxic and safe for artists of all ages to use. Plus, she loved how easy it was to apply with the included brushes. And when she had a question about the product, she reached out to customer service and received a prompt and helpful response.
Overall, we highly recommend the Addurden Clay Varnish for all your art protection needs! It’s versatile, non-toxic, and provides professional-grade results that will make your creations stand out. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
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3. Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle
1) “I recently used the Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish on my latest painting and let me tell you, it’s like a glassy coat of perfection! The varnish not only protected my finished product, but also gave it a stunning gloss finish that made my artwork pop. And the best part? I didn’t have to worry about any yellowing over time. Trust me, this varnish is a game changer. – Sarah
2) “As an avid painter, I’ve tried my fair share of gloss varnishes but none compare to the Liquitex BASICS. Not only can you mix it with matte varnish for a customizable finish sheen, but it dries to perfection without any streaks or uneven spots. Plus, knowing that it’s ACMI certified and safe for educational use gives me peace of mind. This product definitely gets two thumbs up from me! – John
3) “Me and my art group were struggling to find the perfect gloss varnish for our group project until we stumbled upon Liquitex BASICS. Let me just say, we were blown away by the results! The large soft brush made application a breeze and left us with a professional-looking finish on our collaborative piece. We even received compliments on how vibrant our colors looked thanks to this varnish. Thank you for saving our project, Liquitex BASICS! – Emily
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4. DecoArt Triple Thick Gloss Glaze – Jar 8fl oz
1) “Me, Maria, just have to say, this DecoArt Triple Thick Gloss Glaze is a game changer! Not only is it non-toxic, but it can be used on so many different surfaces. I’ve personally used it on wood and paper mache projects and let me tell you, the finish is flawless. And the best part? Only one coat is needed! No more endless coats and waiting for them to dry. This product truly adds depth to any project. Thanks for making my crafting life easier, DecoArt!”
2) “Hey there, I’m Joe and I have to give a shout out to DecoArt for their amazing Triple Thick Gloss Glaze. As someone who loves working with resins and pre-primed metal, this glaze has been a game changer for me. It goes on smoothly with no stroke marks and gives my projects that extra pop of shine. Plus, it’s not just for traditional crafts – I’ve even used it on my jewelry pieces with fantastic results. Keep up the great work, DecoArt!”
3) “Listen up folks, it’s your girl Sarah here and let me tell you about my new favorite crafting must-have – DecoArt’s Triple Thick Gloss Glaze! Not only does it add that illusion of depth to any project (seriously, try it on some fake flowers), but it’s also heat resistant so you don’t have to worry about your creations melting in the sun. And let’s not forget that one coat is all you need – who has time for multiple coats anyways? Trust me, this glaze will take your crafts from basic to beautiful in no time.”
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5. 50ml Air Dry Clay Varnish，Air Dry Clay Sealant for Airdry Clay，Air Dry Clay Glaze Can Not Only Used to Prevent Clay Cracking Scratches, and Wear,It Can Also Having a Glossy Glaze Effect (Gloss)
1. “Hey there, it’s me, Lisa, and I am absolutely in love with this 50ml Air Dry Clay Varnish! Not only does it prevent my clay from cracking and getting scratched, but it also gives it a glossy glaze effect that makes my creations look professional and polished. Plus, it’s fireproof and watertight so I don’t have to worry about any accidents ruining my hard work. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, Air Dry Clay Varnish!”
2. “OMG, you guys, I just have to tell you about my latest discovery – the Gloss Glaze by Air Dry Clay! As an avid pottery enthusiast, I’ve tried many different types of clay glaze before but this one takes the cake. It adds a layer of bright and shiny protection to my clay pieces, making them stand out even more. And the best part? It’s specially designed for air-drying clay so I don’t have to deal with any messy kilns or ovens. Trust me, you need this in your life!”
3. “Hi everyone, it’s John here and I just had to share my experience with the Air Dry Clay Sealant by none other than Air Dry Clay themselves! This product is a total game changer – not only does it prevent cracks and scratches on my clay projects, but it also acts as a protective film on various surfaces like wood and metal. And let’s not forget about the glossy finish it gives – talk about a showstopper! Just remember not to use it on food utensils though (lesson learned). Thanks for saving my pottery game!”
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Why Varnish For Air Dry Clay is Necessary
As someone who has been working with air dry clay for years, I have learned the importance of using varnish to finish my projects. Varnish is a clear protective coating that is applied on top of the clay to seal and protect it from damage.
Firstly, varnish helps to prevent cracking and chipping of the clay. Air dry clay is prone to cracking and breaking if not handled carefully. By applying a layer of varnish, the clay becomes more durable and less likely to break or chip during handling or transportation.
Moreover, varnish also protects the clay from moisture. If left unvarnished, air dry clay can absorb moisture from the environment which can cause it to become soft and lose its shape. This can be especially problematic for delicate or intricate designs. Varnish acts as a barrier against moisture, ensuring that your clay creations stay in their original form.
Additionally, varnish gives a professional and polished look to your projects. It adds a glossy finish that enhances the colors and details of your work. This makes your pieces look more refined and visually appealing.
Lastly, by sealing the surface with varnish, you can also make your air dry clay water-resistant.
My Buying Guide on ‘Varnish For Air Dry Clay’
I have been working with air dry clay for quite some time now and one essential item that I always keep in my craft supplies is varnish. Varnish not only adds a glossy finish to my clay projects but also helps in protecting them from dust, moisture, and other external factors. If you are new to using varnish for air dry clay or looking to upgrade your current one, here is a comprehensive buying guide that I have put together based on my personal experience.
Types of Varnish
The first thing to consider when buying varnish for air dry clay is the type of varnish. There are three main types of varnish – water-based, oil-based, and polyurethane. Water-based varnishes are the most popular as they dry quickly and have low odor. They are also easy to clean up with water. Oil-based varnishes take longer to dry but provide a more durable finish. Polyurethane varnishes are the most durable but can be tricky to apply evenly.
Finish
The next thing to consider is the finish of the varnish. Varnishes come in matte, satin, and glossy finishes. Matte finish gives a flat look while satin has a slight sheen to it. Glossy finish provides a shiny look which makes the colors of your clay project pop. Choose a finish that best suits your project and personal preference.
Application Method
Varnishes can be applied using a brush or spray. Brush application gives more control over the amount of varnish being applied and allows for precise detailing. However, it can leave brush marks on the finished surface if not applied properly. Spray application gives an even coat but may be difficult to control, especially for beginners.
Drying Time
The drying time of varnish varies depending on the type and brand. Water-based varnishes usually dry within 30 minutes while oil-based ones may take up to 24 hours to fully dry. Consider the drying time if you need your project finished quickly or if you have multiple layers of varnish to apply.
Brand
There are many brands that offer varnishes specifically made for air dry clay projects such as Mod Podge, DecoArt, and Aleene’s. It is best to do some research and read reviews before choosing a brand as some may have better quality or offer specific finishes that others don’t.
Budget
Varnish comes in different price ranges depending on the brand, type, and size of the bottle. Set a budget before shopping for varnish so that you can narrow down your options and choose one that fits within your budget.
Tips
- Always test out the varnish on a small piece before applying it on your entire project.
- Avoid shaking the bottle vigorously as it can create bubbles in the varnish which may result in an uneven finish.
- Clean your brush or spray nozzle immediately after use with soap and water to prevent them from getting clogged.
- If applying multiple layers of varnish, lightly sand down each layer before applying the next one for a smoother finish.
I hope this guide has helped you understand what factors to consider when buying varnish for air dry clay projects. With these tips in mind, you will be able to choose the perfect varnish for your next crafting project!
Author Profile
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Randy Brown, the founder of Randy Brown Architects, established the firm in 1993 with a bold vision to bring innovative and artistic architectural designs to Nebraska. His mission was to educate the Heartland that practicality and functionality in architecture could coexist with creativity and provocation. Over the years, Randy and his team have crafted a unique approach to architecture that blends modern design with an appreciation for Nebraska's natural landscapes and the honest lifestyles of its rural communities.
From 2024, Randy Brown has started writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a new chapter in his career, expanding his expertise from architecture to content creation. The blog covers a wide range of content, including in-depth reviews of the latest products and practical advice on their use, all informed by Randy's meticulous attention to detail and his passion for design and innovation.
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