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by Sarah Thurstenson, Something From Nothing Paint Parties  Some of the paintings you create at a paint party will look really great! Great enough that even you want to bring them out every year with the holiday decorations or give them as a gift. But there is something missing. What is it? Why do your paintings look dry, chalky or unprofessional? Coating your final painting is called "finishing." Finishing is something we don't get to do at a paint party. Most of the time we are pressed for time and they are barely dry before we leave! Finishing your canvas painting with a clear coating makes the colors pop and gives a shiny, professional, quality appearance. Use a Gel Medium. It is a clear gel that spreads easily and is a flexible "plastic" that will cover and protect your painting. If something spills on it, you can wipe it off and not damage the painting. You can find a gel medium at Hobby Lobby or Walmart for around $15-$20. No need to pay a lot for this. Any will work well. But avoid cheap solutions like Modge Podge. It dries hard and will crack and yellow over time. It might flake and take your paint with it. Use a large flat brush as seen in the photo, or use a disposable sponge brush. Brushes clean up with water. Begin by laying your painting flat on a table. Clean off the painting surface with a lint free rag to be sure there are no dust particles on the surface. Wipe off any dust with a dry brush or soft rag. If the dust is particularly bad I will use a damp cloth to wipe it off, but then the painting must be left to dry completely. Apply a thin coating, following the direction of the brushstrokes. Coat the edges of the painting as well. One coat is generally enough to seal a canvas. Just like the period at the end of a sentence, your painting will look vibrant and finished. I think you will love the results! UPDATE 11/16 We were able to find this product at Walmart in a smaller container for a decent price. Gloss Medium are the key words to look for. Thank you, Kathy F., for the picture and for the information!  AuthorSarah Thurstenson is the creator and instructor for Something From Nothing Paint Parties. She believes with some simple techniques, the right tools, and a little encouragement, anyone can make Something from Nothing! She is currently experiencing "empty nest" and looks forward to seeing everyone at the next paint party! |
