Are you working on clay projects and want to know if you can seal them? Many people consider using Mod Podge but aren’t sure if it’ll work the way they want. However, Mod Podge works on a variety of art mediums.
So, can you use Mod Podge on clay? Yes, definitely! It’s easy to apply Mod Podge to clay once it’s dried and hardened. You can even use it on polymer, oven-baked, or air-dry clay. Many crafters use Mod Podge to seal the clay to make durable charms!
In short, you can apply Mod Podge to most forms of clay and get great results. You’ll want to make sure that you apply it correctly without making the Mod Podge too thick. If you’re going to start using Mod Podge on clay, keep reading!
How To Use Mod Podge on Clay
Applying Mod Podge to clay is very simple. Make sure that you choose one that has a finish you like first. For example, the Gloss finish will make your clay projects very shiny. You may want to select another type of finish option depending on the results you want to see.
Pour some Mod Podge out of the container into a smaller one. You should use a container that you don’t mind throwing away when finished with it. Many people also like using small containers with lids to preserve their leftover Mod Podge.
Use a brush to coat the clay object in a thin layer of Mod Podge. It will come off white but dries clear, so don’t worry! Once you’ve covered the entire piece, let it dry for several hours. If you think it needs another coat of Mod Podge after that time, you can add another one.
You’ll want to get in all of the cracks and creases on your object. When finished, make sure you soak the brushes in warm, soapy water for a while before trying to clean the Mod Podge off. It has a glue-like consistency that can clump the bristles together if not dealt with.
Can You Use Mod Podge on Clay Pots?
You can also apply Mod Podge to traditional clay pots! Many people do this when they want to add a glossy finish to the pot or give it a stronger, watertight seal. You can even apply colored paper to provide the pot with an entirely new look.
It’s very similar to applying the Mod Podge to other clay pieces. However, you’ll likely want to use the Hard Coat Mod Podge formula for better results since it works best with terracotta.
Start by brushing on a thin coating of the Mod Podge to a pot section using a foam brush. You don’t want the Mod Podge to be too thick or won’t dry properly. While the Mod Podge is still tacky, you can apply paper to the pot.
Once that dries, you’ll want to go over it with another layer of Mod Podge to seal the paper. You can expect it to take 15 to 30 minutes for the first coat to dry entirely. However, you won’t need to do this if you aren’t adding any paper to the pot.
After the first coat, you’ll need to give more drying time to any layer that you add. For example, the following coats should take about 30 minutes to an hour to dry.
Can You Use Mod Podge on Polymer Clay?
You can use Mod Podge to create a seal on polymer clay, although it doesn’t look as nice as a professional varnish finish. Mod Podge also tends to remain streaky on polymer clays, so you won’t be able to get rid of all the brush strokes. Mod Podge doesn’t work as well on polymer clays as it does other kinds of clay.
It also takes Mod Podge a lot longer to dry on polymer clays. However, if you’re patient, you shouldn’t have any issues with it.
Can You Use Mod Podge on Oven Bake Clay?
First, allow the clay to bake like normal in your oven- you don’t want to apply Mod Podge to squishy clay! Once the clay cools, you can apply the Mod Podge using a small brush. If the piece is still warm, the Mod Podge won’t dry.
That means you’ll need to give it a lot longer to cool than you might think! You should pick up the clay object with it feeling cool to the touch. It doesn’t hurt to let it cool for longer before adding the Mod Podge seal if you’re not sure.
Many people use this combination to create small charms or gift tags. Make sure to apply a tiny amount of the Mod Podge, then let it dry. You can add another coating after that if you need to.
Can You Use Mod Podge on Air Dry Clay?
Mod Podge tends to work the best with air-dry clay! It creates a strong seal, which works great on many different projects. Again, you’ll need to give the air dry clay plenty of time to harden. You can apply the Mod Podge in light strokes when it’s no longer soft.
Air-dry clay can be brittle, requiring a seal to increase how long it lasts. It also has a naturally matte surface that can appear dull- using a glossy Mod Podge can add more interest to the clay piece!
Once you’ve added the first layer of Mod Podge, give it 15 minutes at least to dry. When it’s no longer sticky, you can apply another coat. However, air-dry clay is also an excellent medium for decoupage paper! You’d add the colorful paper while the Mod Podge is wet, then cover it with another layer to seal it in.
Overall, Mod Podge is one of the best choices to seal air-dry clay! Keep in mind that Mod Podge can yellow when in the sun, so make sure to find somewhere dark to store the final piece.
Best Mod Podge To Seal Clay
You have plenty of options for Mod Podge when it comes to clay. The best Mod Podge to use is the traditional Gloss formula. Many people like the way it looks, and it makes the clay stronger with a smooth finish.
However, Gloss Mod Podge won’t work on terracotta pots. If you’re using an outdoor pot, make sure that you use the Hard Coat Mod Podge instead. It’s better suited for this type of material.
Overall, normal Mod Podge will work on polymer, air dry, and oven-baked clays you use at home! You can experiment with different kinds of Mod Podge to see if there’s one that you like more, but most people prefer the standard Gloss option.
Final Thoughts
To summarize, you can use Mod Podge on clay. It applies white but dries clear. You’ll need to work in very thin layers to ensure that it doesn’t stay sticky for a long time. Mod Podge can also yellow with time, so you may prefer to use an art-quality varnish instead.
Overall, Mod Podge can go on just about any art medium- including clay! You’ll have better luck if the clay has already thoroughly dried before applying it. Make sure you take your time for the best results.
Make sure to follow all my tips and recommended products to ensure your Mod Podge painted project turns out great! Also, don’t forget to check out my other articles for all your painting Q&A’s. Happy painting!