Krylon Crystal Clear is a very popular choice for sealing paintings because of the desirable qualities it has. However, just like any other paint product, a common question about this product is whether it is toxic.
So, is Krylon Crystal Clear toxic? Good news! Krylon Crystal Clear is an acrylic coating that is water-based. Meaning that the product is non-toxic and safe to use. While it is non-toxic, you will still want to use it in a well-ventilated area, especially if you have a sensitive respiratory system, or pets in the home.
Even though it isn’t toxic, each person has a different tolerance. This product might give you a headache or make you sneeze, so you will still want to take proper precautions to protect yourself. However, you don’t need to worry about it being harmful if you inhale it or accidentally swallow a small amount.
What Is Krylon Crystal Clear Used For?
Krylon Crystal Clear is used as a permanent, protective sealant for acrylic and other water-based paintings. This is a highly popular option for sealants because it doesn’t yellow over time like most other sealants will. It stays crystal clear, hence the name.
Once applied and dried, this product adds a protective film to your painting. Your painting will be protected from moisture and smudging, allowing you to place it in different areas of your home without worrying that it will get ruined.
Crystal Clear is also used because of how quickly it dries. It dries to the touch in as little as 15 minutes, making it easy for you to add multiple layers in a shorter period of time. It dries fully within 2 hours, so you don’t have to worry about letting it sit for days before you can move it or hang it.
You can also use Krylon Crystal Clear on a ton of different surfaces. It can be used on wood, paper mâché, glass, metal, plaster, plastic, and ceramic. This makes it easy to have one product for all of your projects instead of needing different products for different surfaces. You can save money and space with this product since it is compatible with so many different surfaces.
Is Krylon Crystal Clear Waterproof?
It can be easy to think that since Crystal Clear is a sealant that it is waterproof. However, this isn’t the case. This product is moisture resistant, but it is not waterproof. This means that you can’t place a painting sealed with Krylon Crystal Clear in an area where it will be splashed with water frequently.
You will also not be able to use Crystal Clear on an item that you are going to put outside. This sealant will not offer the protection necessary for your painting to not be destroyed by rain or snow.
If you are looking a waterproof sealer, I recommend using Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe Sealer. This Mod Podge is meant to be used on items that will end up in the dishwasher, such as mugs or plates.
While you don’t necessarily need to use it in a dishwasher, it still makes a great choice if you want to waterproof your acrylic painting, or painted object.
Krylon doesn’t currently offer a waterproof sealant product, so it is best that you only use their sealants on items that you are going to have indoors. If you do want to use this sealant on an item that is going outside, you will want to use Mod Podge, or other sealers that are waterproof.
How Long Does Krylon Take to Cure?
Each Krylon product will have a different cure time. Krylon Crystal Clear dries incredibly quickly. It will be dry to the touch in about 15 minutes and will fully cure in 2 hours. It is important to wait until the sealant is completely cured and not just dry to the touch. Although it might feel dry, that doesn’t mean it won’t get damaged.
Although the sealant is dry to the touch, there is still the potential that it can get damaged. You should always wait the full cure time before you attempt to move your finished piece. This will ensure that your work doesn’t get any dents, scratches, or fingerprints in the surface.
Just like any other paint process, there are different factors that will impact the drying time of Krylon Crystal Clear. The biggest factor is the humidity in the area you are working in. When there are higher levels of moisture in the air, the sealant will dry at a slower rate. When the air is dry, the sealant will dry at a faster rate.
The temperature of the area can also have an impact on the drying time. Water-based products, like Crystal Clear, dry through evaporation. When the temperature of the area is warmer, the evaporation will happen more quickly and dry the sealant faster. Colder temperatures will make the sealant dry slower.
You also need to be mindful of the thickness of your layers. Since Krylon Crystal Clear comes in a spray can, you will be able to easily keep your coats thin without having to try. This will allow each layer to dry faster, making it easier to apply other coats sooner.
Airflow is also important. Many people think that if they place a fan in front of their art after they seal it will make it dry faster. While this is true, it will make the sealant dry too quickly and leave cracks all over the surface. You need to keep the airflow under control for the best results. Some air is fine, but there is a thing as too much air.
Final Thoughts
Krylon Crystal Clear is a popular acrylic sealant. It is a permanent coating that is resistant to yellowing over time. Since it is an acrylic, water-based product, it is not toxic and is safe for use by anyone. Although it is safe, you should still use the product in a well-ventilated area in case you have a personal reaction to the product.
It can be used on multiple different surfaces, making it a versatile product. It also has a really fast drying time. It is dry to the touch and ready for additional coats in about 15 minutes and fully cured in about 2 hours. You always want to wait to move your art until the sealant is completely cured to prevent any damage from occurring to the surface.
Make sure to follow all my tips and recommended products to ensure your krylon spray painted project turns out great! Also, don’t forget to check out my other articles for all your painting Q&A’s. Happy painting!
