Acrylic paint is highly versatile, which is one of its attractive features. Since acrylic can be applied to almost any surface and will last for many years, it’s a trendy option among painters. There are many ways to add color, ease of application, and permanence to water-based arts and crafts. For this purpose, acrylic paints are most likely the best paint choice. Acrylic paints have great coverage and can be used on various surfaces. But one common question is, is acrylic paint waterproof?
That must be a rhetorical question, right? It is a water-soluble paint, after all. But real life paints the picture of something different from common sense. Acrylic paints are very efficient and spread easily on any surface. At the same time, they are easy to work with and perfect for beginners. But this efficiency makes them delicate. To get a better idea of its longevity, we will talk about Is acrylic paint waterproof in this article. Let’s take a closer look.
What Makes Up Acrylic Paint?
Paint made from acrylic polymer emulsions, defoamers, stabilizing agents, plasticizers, defoamers, and pigments is acrylic paint. Typically, acrylic paints are water-based paints with acrylic polymer emulsions. Because of the paint’s structure, it dries quickly. It dries by evaporating water. But holding the particles together takes even more effort.
Acrylic paint consists of the following fundamental ingredients:
- Pigment – The color of paint comes from granular solid pigments. Despite being milled to very small particle sizes, they don’t dissolve in the paint and stay in suspension. A pigment may be organic, inorganic, natural, or synthetic. Generally, pigments do not adhere to surfaces.
- Binder – After the paint dries, a binder holds the pigment in place. When acrylic paint evaporates, the acrylic polymer forms a film, which binds the water to the paint.
- Vehicle – In paint, the vehicle refers to the pigment and binder carried in it. Acrylic paint is formulated with water. This makes a polymer emulsion when it is combined with the binder. By evaporating or absorbing the water, the paint dries to create a polymer film full of particles of colored pigment that are trapped in the film.
It is easier to identify the ingredients of acrylic paint when it begins to separate. First, the binder reveals itself. Purchasing cheap paint or storing the paint tube improperly could cause the paint to detach. Recombine the ingredients before using them.
Manufacturers use different ingredients as well. Various brands offer different pigment proportions, even when the same color. The exact formula depends on the price point. Pigments disperse, or the paint prevents foaming with additives in some paints. Often, cheaper manufacturers will use fillers and dyes as a replacement for the pigment to reduce costs.
Is Acrylic Paint Waterproof
There is a reason why acrylic paint is so popular, and that is the fact that it is water-based. Water-based paints have a number of advantages over older paints, which are lacking in earlier paints. Water-based paints mean less drying time, less toxicity, and a lower cost. While wet, acrylic paint can be washed away with just water.
In contrast, if a painted surface is in contact with moist conditions, the staying power of paint that washes off with water may be questioned. The problem is even more acute for outdoor painted surfaces that have been wetted repeatedly by rain, snow, or humidity.
The question is, is acrylic paint waterproof? Acrylic paint becomes water-resistant when dry, even though it is water-soluble when wet. However, it is not completely waterproof; therefore, varnish or lacquer should be applied to prevent it from being damaged by humidity or moisture.
If you plan to use acrylic paint outdoors or for crafts that require frequent washing, you should not be discouraged by this. Keep reading to learn how to make acrylic paint waterproof.
4 Ways to Waterproof Acrylic Paint
You will need to apply sealants to your acrylic paint to waterproof it. The paint will last longer if you apply a sealer after it dries. Spraying or brushing sealants onto acrylic painted surfaces is an option for both interiors and exteriors.
Acrylic painted surfaces can be protected against moisture penetration with sealants. As well as brightening the flat look of acrylic paint, they may also prevent fading if used for archival purposes.
Waterproofing acrylic paints can be achieved with a few different products. Whether you waterproof a canvas painting or a wooden item will determine which product you choose.
1. Varnish
All types of acrylic paint, crafts, furnishings, and even paintings can be sealed with Vanish. The acrylic resin varnishes and the acrylic polymer varnishes are two types of vanishes.
Comparing acrylic resin varnish to acrylic polymer varnish, acrylic resin varnish is glossier and smoother. As a result, the resin varnish will suffice if you prefer a shinier appearance. Acrylic paint is typically waterproofed with polycrylic varnishes.
For proper coverage, you need to spray several layers of spray varnish. Spray varnish is easy to use, and it covers large surfaces quickly. In contrast to spraying, brushing on varnish covers every inch more thoroughly with a more accurate result.
As the wax dries, it forms a hard shell that keeps scratches at bay without yellowing. Aside from protecting your paint from damage caused by harsh UV rays and dirt, they also waterproof your paint.
2. Polyurethane
Sealants made of polyurethane are tough and clear. Acrylic paint can be painted with either oil-based or water-based polyurethane.
Low odors and low toxicity make water-based polyurethane popular. This version also dries much faster than petroleum-based polyurethane. Polyurethane based on oil, on the other hand, offers superior protection.
The polyurethane finishes leave surfaces shiny and allow acrylic paint colors to pop apart from the surface. Polyurethane does more than waterproof. The downside of polyurethane is its sensitivity to chemicals and heat. Consequently, it should not be applied to pieces that will be exposed to high temperatures.
3. Lacquer
Lacquer protects acrylic paint by making it waterproof. Despite being thinner than Polyurethane, it is durable. The appearance of painted surfaces coated in lacquer is beautiful, as lacquer does not form a yellow tint. Metals and wood can also be coated in lacquer.
4. Shellac
Lac bug females are combined with denatured alcohol to produce Shellac, a natural product. As a result, it should be sprayed thinly and carefully to prevent dissolving and lift the acrylic paint below. It is beneficial for wood.
How to Make Acrylic Paint Waterproof
The durability of acrylic paint makes it essential to waterproof it. Sealers and varnishes are essential for waterproofing acrylic paint. Art and craft stores carry a wide variety of spray or liquid sealers and varnishes. Although they come with a variety of features, their main aim is to keep the paint protected. You should search for acrylic paint sealants or varnishes.
To make acrylic paint waterproof, you need to take different steps depending on the surface you’re painting. You might also need to clean or sand the surface before painting for the best results.
Painting the walls helps them become water-resistant and also prevents them from peeling and chipping in the future. Your paint job will last longer if you take the extra steps to seal the paint.
Waterproofing an Acrylic Painting
When waterproofing acrylic paintings on canvas, you should apply a sealer to finish the job. Acrylics are typically applied to canvases before priming. If the surface is not primed, you can use Gesso primer. You can begin creating your art piece once the primer is dry.
After the acrylic paint has dried, seal the painting with a sealant. In order to speed up the drying time, you can purchase a spray sealer or use a liquid sealer. You should seal your painting with a UV-protective sealer to extend its lifespan.
In order to completely cover the painting, multiple coats of sealant may be necessary. Ensure that each coat is applied in a thin layer and allows it to dry before going on to the next completely. Look for an outdoor polyurethane sealer if you intend to keep the object outside. Don’t forget to seal all sides thoroughly. The painting can be hung indoors or outdoors if it is sealed correctly.
Waterproofing Acrylic on Glass
Painting directly on glass can be achieved using acrylics. You can use your oven to help waterproof the paint after it has dried for around 24 hours. Turn the oven on to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and put the glass in the oven. This project does not require preheating the oven. To prevent glass shattering, let it heat slowly.
Set a timer for 30 minutes after the temperature reaches 350 degrees F. You should leave the paint in the oven for 45 minutes if you mix regular acrylic paint with glass medium. Verify that your paint’s instructions aren’t varying according to the product label. Before removing the glass object from the oven, turn off the oven and let it cool completely. Slowly increase and decrease the temperature as you remove the glass object. As a substitute, you can use an exhaust fan or open the oven door to release the fumes.
At least 72 hours should be allowed for the glass to cool. As a next step, you should wash the item by hand to remove any debris or dust. Depending on your preference, you may air-dry the thing for a total of 21 days. Use a hairdryer on low heat if your glass item is too large to fit in the oven. Hold the hairdryer away from the surface of the glass. If necessary, you can leave the object outside to dry.
Waterproofing Acrylic Paint on Metal
Acrylic paint sticks well to metal surfaces, so acrylic paints are commonly used to paint metal. Some projects may require polishing, such as doorknobs, mailboxes, picture frames, and lamp bases. These items should be varnished to protect the paint.
Paint the metal surface, then apply a simple coat of poly varnish. Other metal varnishes would also work. The surface doesn’t need to be sanded or coated multiple times.
Waterproofing Acrylic on Wood
You should apply varnish to wood after painting with acrylics. Sealing painted wood surfaces with varnish is the standard procedure. Changing the color or adding a glossy finish can completely alter the appearance of wooden objects. In addition to wood, varnish can be applied to many other surfaces. The best type of varnish for wood is polymer varnish. There are many types available. The varnish should be applied in two coats and allowed to dry for a day or two between each coat.
The most important part of applying varnish is applying an even layer. If you use a sponge brush, make sure to use a soft one. It will help absorb excess varnish and create an even, smooth finish. Don’t let the varnish sit while you apply it. It may cause problems if you apply too much in one spot.
To prevent damage, varnish the entire surface. Make sure each side is varnished separately to avoid fingerprints. Wait at least three days for the varnish to dry. Varnish also requires more preparation. You will need to sand wood surfaces before painting them. A foam poly brush can be useful for applying varnish evenly. It absorbs excess varnish to provide a smooth finish.
Waterproofing Acrylic Paint on Fabric
As with glass, acrylic paint can be sealed to fabric using heat. To seal the paint, use your iron on medium heat. The paint is cured into the fibers by applying heat to the fabric, creating a waterproof and durable finish.
Seal the paint with your iron by plugging it in. Make sure the paint side of the fabric is down. Make sure you keep the iron moving for at least five minutes to prevent burns on the fibers.
Final Words
So, Is acrylic paint waterproof? Well, acrylic paint is not waterproof. Instead, it has water resistance. If you want to make your acrylic paintings last long, keep them correctly, preserve the painting by avoiding contact with water. And if it rains, cover your paintings and put a plastic sheet so they will not get damaged. However, it is possible to waterproof acrylic paint.
The best way to waterproof acrylic paint is to use a paint sealant. It applies like regular acrylic paint, so it is easy to use. It works because each paint molecule has an affinity for surrounding molecules. When you apply an acrylic sealer over the top of your application of acrylic paint, the sealer’s molecular structure wraps around the same molecules in your paint. It will not allow water or moisture to penetrate them.