It can be tough trying to figure out what the best sealer for your painting is. Water-based paints need a water-based sealer such as Mod Podge or Krylon Crystal Clear. Both of these sealers are highly recommended because of how well they work, but it can be difficult to determine which is right for your current project.
So, what’s the difference between Mod Podge and Krylon sealer? Mod Podge has more uses than just as a sealer, which is why most people prefer it. It is also available in several different finishes, making it easy to match your vision. Krylon sealer is a very strong and durable sealer, but it only has one use, and only comes in a satin or matte finish.
Krylon and Mod Podge have several similarities, but they also have many differences. To be able to make the best decision on which product to use, you need to have all the facts about each product. Let’s read on to find out more!
Mod Podge vs. Krylon Sealer
As stated before, Mod Podge and Krylon Sealer have many similarities and many differences. If you want to make sure you are using the right product for your project, you need to know what you are working with.
Krylon Sealer
Krylon Crystal Clear is an acrylic sealer that comes in a spray can. The product provides you with a protective, permanent coating that resists yellowing. This sealer is also smudge-proof and moisture-resistant, leaving you with a smooth finish that won’t get messed up if you touch it.
Crystal Clear is usually dry to the touch in about ten or fifteen minutes with the ability to be handled in two hours. This is incredibly convenient because it cuts down time between coats and allows you to finish your artwork faster.
This product can be used on multiple different surfaces including wicker, dried silk flowers, paper, plaster, ceramic, wood, plastic, and metal. It has the ability to easily adhere as long as the paint is completely dry before you start applying it.
Mod Podge
Mod Podge is referred to as an all-in-one sealer, glue, and finish. The product can be used for so many different projects and can stick to so many different surfaces. Mod Podge can be used as a sealer over acrylic paint, decoupage projects, fabrics, stain, and much more.
Mod Podge is available in so many different formulas that can be used for many things. There is an outdoor formula, a dishwasher safe formula, a glitter formula, and even a spray formula. This gives you tons of flexibility and several options to finish your project exactly how you envisioned it.
It also dries quickly, making it possible to cut down the finishing process of your artwork. You need to apply this product in thin, even layers to make sure you don’t compromise the drying process or the quality of your piece of art.
What is Krylon Crystal Clear Used for?
Krylon Crystal Clear is just used as a sealer for acrylic and other water-based paint projects. The product is used to provide a highly durable, permanent seal to your artwork. It will protect it from moisture, smudges, dust, dirt, and other debris it might come in contact with.
Crystal Clear provides a glossy finish that works to improve the contrast and quality of things like photography, charcoal pencil, watercolors, wood crafts, and so much more. You don’t have to worry about the quality being impacted with this sealer.
What is Mod Podge Used for?
Mod Podge is used for a wide variety of things. The most popular uses are as a decoupage and a sealer. Since it has the ability to adhere to just about any surface, it can be used for an endless list of art projects.
Decoupage is using Mod Podge to glue and seal paper to another surface. For example, if you want to create a pattern on your shoes, you will use paper and Mod Podge to adhere it completely to the surface.
Mod Podge is also a highly recommended sealer. This is because it is versatile and comes in so many different finishes and formulas. You can seal your painting with glitter Mod Podge or matte Mod Podge. You aren’t restricted to just one kind of sealer with Mod Podge.
How to Use Mod Podge
Once you know how to use Mod Podge, it is an incredibly easy product to use. The way you use Mod Podge will depend on type of project you are doing. First, let’s talk about how to use Mod Podge as a decoupage.
Make sure you have all of your materials ready including the paper and surface you are going to Mod Podge on. First, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the surface and the back of the paper. Gently, but firmly, press the paper down onto the surface. Complete this step until you have completed the entire surface.
Let this dry completely before continuing. It is recommended to wait about 24 hours for the best results. You will then go back with the Mod Podge and cover the entire surface, paper and all, with a very thin layer of Mod Podge to protect it. Let the first layer dry for about thirty, then add a second layer.
If you are just using Mod Podge as a sealer for a painting, you will first need to make sure the paint is completely dry. Although water-based paints dry quickly, you will still want to give it plenty of time. Just like the decoupage, wait 24 hours for the paint to dry before you continue.
Start by applying one thin layer of Mod Podge on top of the painted project. Let this first layer dry for about thirty minutes before adding a second, thin layer. Let the second layer of Mod Podge dry for a couple of hours before you try to move the project.
How to Use Krylon Clear Sealer
The first step of using Krylon Crystal Clear is making sure the paint is completely dry before you start spraying. Just like Mod Podge, you will want to wait 24 hours before you continue. After that time has passed, you can start by spraying an even layer of Crystal Clear to the painting.
Hold the can between eight and ten inches away from the surface of the painting. Apply the sealer while moving in only one direction to make sure you get every part covered. You can work side to side or top to bottom, but always go the same way.
Give the first layer about fifteen minutes before adding a second layer. After you apply the second layer, wait two hours before you try to touch the surface for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Mod Podge and Krylon sealer are very similar in a few ways and very different in others. When you are trying to decide which product will be best for you, the decision becomes easier when the characteristics of each product are known. For example, Mod Podge can also be used as a glue while Crystal Clear can’t.
Both products can be used on a wide number of surfaces to seal water-based paintings. One thing that Mod Podge has over Krylon is not the versatility, but the huge variety of formulas and finishes. There are several different types of Mod Podge, but only one Krylon Crystal Clear.
Make sure to follow all my tips and recommended products to ensure your Krylon or Mod Podge project turns out great! Also, don’t forget to check out my other articles for all your painting Q&A’s. Happy painting!