Achieving Glossy Perfection In Acrylic Painting

There are several ways to achieve a glossy finish on a painting. One way is to use a gloss varnish spray, like Krylon Triple Thick, which can give an even and light application. Alternatively, you can use a gloss medium, which you can mix with your acrylic paint before applying it to the canvas. This method will give your painting a little more structure. You can also try using epoxy resin for a glossy finish, but it's important to ensure that your canvas is very clean and free of any oils, as this can cause the resin to become patchy.

Characteristics and Values

Mix gloss medium with acrylic paint

Gloss medium is compatible with all other acrylic products and can be used to create a strong, shiny, and protective finish for textured pieces of art. It can be mixed with acrylic paint to increase the fluidity of the paint while providing a strong paint film. This mixture can be applied directly to the canvas or used as an adhesive to stick objects to the canvas.

When mixed with Heavy Body acrylic, gloss medium will thin the paint. Mixed with acrylic ink, it will thicken the ink. Gloss medium can also be stencilled. To do this, cut a stencil from a thin card and pass the medium over with a painting knife. The stencil should be greetings card weight (about 350gsm), and you should hold it down firmly so that the medium does not seep underneath.

Gloss medium can be used to create pearlescent and opalescent effects when mixed with transparent colours and gels. The more transparent the mixture, the more these qualities will shine through. To make your painting sparkle, sprinkle the mixture on top of wet paint.

Gloss medium can also be used as a ground or base layer for paint. It can be spread onto the canvas and then have paint applied on top, or it can be mixed with paint to create coloured texture.

To create a high-gloss finish, use a glossy acrylic medium instead of mixing a glossy varnish into the paint. Mix the gloss medium into the paint on a palette and then paint as normal. To achieve even more gloss, apply a high-gloss varnish once the painting is finished and dry.

Use a gloss varnish spray

To give your acrylic painting a gloss finish, one of the easiest ways is to use a gloss varnish spray. Spray varnishes are excellent for a light application and will give your painting a nice sheen.

It is important to remember to always use spray varnish outside or in a very well-ventilated area. Some gloss varnishes have no bad fumes and are safe to breathe, but it is still recommended to use them in a well-ventilated area.

There are many gloss varnish sprays available in the market, and you can choose one depending on your requirements. For instance, if you want a thick glossy finish, you can try Krylon Triple Thick.

To apply the varnish spray, hold the can at least 6-8 inches away from the painting and spray in even, sweeping motions. Start from the top of the painting and work your way down. It is important to ensure that you do not spray too much in one area, as this can cause dripping or pooling.

Using a gloss varnish spray is a quick and easy way to give your acrylic painting a glossy finish. Your painting will not only look shiny and beautiful but will also be protected from dust and moisture.

Try epoxy resin

If you're looking to give your acrylic painting a gloss finish, one option is to use epoxy resin. This method can give your painting a professional-looking finish with a glossy sheen that makes colours pop. Here's how you can do it:

Firstly, ensure your painting is completely dry. Even if the paint feels dry to the touch, it's important to allow sufficient drying time to prevent clouding or discolouration once the resin is applied. The paint in the centre may still be evaporating, so it's crucial to wait until it is thoroughly dry.

Once your painting is dry, you can apply the epoxy resin. Measure and mix the resin according to the manufacturer's instructions, then pour it onto the centre of your painting. Use a plastic spreader or a popsicle stick to spread the resin evenly from the centre to the edges. You'll have about 45 minutes of working time before the resin becomes too thick.

After spreading the resin, use an artist's torch to remove any bubbles. Hold the flame a couple of inches above the resin surface, moving the torch side to side, until the bubbles pop. Don't be nervous about using a torch, as this step is important for a smooth, glossy finish.

Finally, let the resin cure. Depending on the type of resin you use, it may take around 24 hours for your painting to fully cure and achieve its gorgeous, glossy finish.

When choosing a resin, opt for an art-grade resin specifically formulated for artwork. These resins are designed to prevent yellowing and often include UV protection. Additionally, consider the desired effect, as some resins can create either a light coating or a deeper surface.

Use a varnish without fumes

While some artists choose not to varnish their acrylic paintings, it is generally recommended to protect the painting from dust, UV rays, and yellowing. Varnishing can also add a layer of shine that brings out the vibrancy of the colours. Varnish comes in gloss, satin, or matte finish, and you can even mix different types to get your desired finish.

If you want to avoid inhaling fumes, you can use a water-soluble varnish like Liquitex Soluvar Gloss Varnish, which can be applied with a paintbrush or foam brush. Be sure to apply thin layers and let them dry before adding another coat to avoid bubbling or cracking. You can also dilute an acrylic gel medium or gel gloss with water and apply it as an isolation coat to protect your painting from the chemicals in the varnish. This can be done using a paintbrush or a spray varnish like Winsor & Newton Artists' Gloss Picture Varnish. If you choose to use a spray varnish, be sure to use it outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area.

Another option is to mix a gloss medium into your paint before applying it to the canvas. This will give your painting a glossy finish as it dries. You can also add structure to your painting by using a gloss gel medium, which is thicker and can be mixed with a palette knife or plastic spoon.

Gloss gel medium for structure

Gloss gel mediums are a great way to add structure to your acrylic paintings. Gloss gel mediums are thicker than other mediums, which gives your painting more body and structure. They are also used to increase the transparency of your paint without decreasing its body. Gloss gel mediums are also used to create a glossy finish on your painting.

Gloss gel mediums are available in soft, regular, and heavy gel consistencies, depending on the finish you desire. The soft gel gloss can be used to dilute the paint consistency while still retaining visible brush marks. It can also be diluted with water to create an isolation coat, which helps separate your painting from the final varnish layer and protects it from the atmosphere.

The regular gel gloss will increase the volume of your paint without changing its consistency. It will, however, dilute the coverage quality of the paint. Gloss gel mediums with long rheology will thicken the paint to the proper viscosity while imparting a certain levelling quality.

Gels with short rheology are perfect if you want the paint to retain brush strokes, stay in peaks, or have texture. Gloss gel mediums are also frequently used as glue for collaging materials together. They can also be used to correct weakened paint systems, such as when there is excessive dry pigment or water in the paint, which can cause cracking or a chalky quality.

To use a gloss gel medium, simply mix it with your paint on a palette and then apply it to your canvas using a palette knife or plastic spoon. Your paint should dry to a glossy finish.

Frequently asked questions