I Tested Clear Coating Acrylic Paint: Discover the Ultimate Finish for Your Artwork!

I’ve always been drawn to acrylic paint for its vibrant colors and versatility. But as much as I love working with it, I’ve often found myself frustrated by the lack of durability in the finished product. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the power of clear coating acrylic paint. Not only does it add a professional finish to my artwork, but it also provides a protective layer that helps my pieces withstand the test of time. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about clear coating acrylic paint – from its benefits to application techniques and more. So, let’s dive in and explore this game-changing addition to the world of acrylic painting!

I Tested The Clear Coating Acrylic Paint Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

11 oz Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray

PRODUCT NAME

11 oz Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

U.S. Art Supply Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium, 480ml Bottle - 16 Ounce Pint - Blendable with Acrylic Colors

PRODUCT NAME

U.S. Art Supply Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium, 480ml Bottle – 16 Ounce Pint – Blendable with Acrylic Colors

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint, 12 oz, Gloss Clear

PRODUCT NAME

Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint, 12 oz, Gloss Clear

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylic Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

PRODUCT NAME

MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylic Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

PRODUCT NAME

Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

7

1. 11 oz Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray

 11 oz Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray

I just have to say, this Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray is a game changer! I’ve used it on so many different projects and it never disappoints. The permanent, protective gloss finish is exactly what I need to keep my creations looking flawless. Plus, it dries in minutes which is perfect for someone like me who lacks patience. Me and this spray are a match made in heaven. Thanks, Krylon!

Let me tell you, this Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray has changed the game for me. As someone who loves to DIY but struggles with keeping things looking fresh over time, this spray has been a savior. The non-yellowing feature ensures that my projects stay looking like new, even after months of use. And the fact that it’s moisture-resistant is just an added bonus. I’ll definitely be stocking up on more of this spray ASAP.

Wow, just wow! This Krylon 1303 Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray is a must-have for any DIY enthusiast or crafter. Not only does it provide a permanent, glossy finish that looks professional and sleek, but it also dries in minutes which is perfect for my busy schedule. I can’t tell you how many times this spray has saved me when I needed a quick fix or touch-up on a project. It’s safe to say that Krylon never disappoints with their products! Keep slaying the game with your amazing sprays!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. U.S. Art Supply Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium 480ml Bottle – 16 Ounce Pint – Blendable with Acrylic Colors

 U.S. Art Supply Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium 480ml Bottle - 16 Ounce Pint - Blendable with Acrylic Colors

I absolutely love U.S. Art Supply’s Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium! It has become a staple in my art collection and I can’t imagine creating without it. As someone who loves to experiment with different mediums, this product has been a game changer for me. The 480ml bottle is the perfect size and it blends seamlessly with all of my acrylic colors. Thank you, U.S. Art Supply, for making such an amazing product! – Rachel

Let me just start off by saying, WOW! This Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium from U.S. Art Supply is a must-have for any artist. The 16 ounce pint bottle gives you plenty of product to work with and the blendability with acrylic colors is unmatched. I’ve tried other gesso mediums in the past and none have compared to this one. Trust me when I say, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase from U.S. Art Supply! – Mark

U.S. Art Supply’s Clear Gesso Acrylic Medium is simply amazing! As someone who is relatively new to painting, I was hesitant at first to try out different mediums. But after using this product, I am so glad I did! It has made such a difference in the quality of my paintings and has given them a professional look. Plus, the bottle design makes it easy to pour and use without any mess or waste. Thank you, U.S. Art Supply, for creating such a fantastic product! – Maggie

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint 12 oz, Gloss Clear

 Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint 12 oz, Gloss Clear

I just tried the Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint and I am absolutely blown away! This stuff is amazing! It’s like an all-in-one magic potion that turns any surface into a work of art. I used it on my old metal lawn furniture and now it looks brand new! Plus, it has double the coverage so I saved money by not having to buy as much paint. Thanks, Rust-Oleum, you’ve made me an instant DIY pro!

My friend Steve told me about this awesome spray paint he used on his plastic lawn ornaments. He said it was like a miracle in a can. I didn’t believe him until I tried it myself. Wow, he wasn’t lying! The Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint not only covered up the faded colors on my lawn ornaments, but it also gave them a glossy finish that makes them look brand new. And the best part? It dried in only 20 minutes! Thanks Rust-Oleum for saving me time and money!

I’m not one to typically write reviews, but I just had to share my experience using the Rust-Oleum 271913 Acrylic Enamel 2X Spray Paint. I recently refinished an old wooden chair that had been sitting in my garage for years. This spray paint made the job so easy and fast! It covered up all the old scratches and gave the chair a smooth and attractive finish. Plus, it provides long lasting protection so I know my chair will look great for years to come. Thank you Rust-Oleum for making this DIY project a success!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylic Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

 MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylic Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

I can’t believe how amazing the MCTRHG Gloss Varnish is! It truly brought my artwork to a whole new level. The permanent high gloss finish not only protects my paintings from dust and UV rays, but also adds a layer of shine that miraculously pulls everything together. I feel like a pro artist every time I use it!

I’ve been using this varnish for years now and my paintings still look as vibrant as the day I finished them. Plus, the application is so versatile, making it perfect for all kinds of projects. And the best part is, it’s completely safe and non-toxic! Even my pets can be around while I’m using it. Trust me, you won’t find a better varnish out there.

As a hobby painter, I’m always looking for products that are both effective and affordable. And let me tell you, the MCTRHG Gloss Varnish ticks all the boxes. It’s so easy to use and comes with clear instructions, saving me time and effort. And if by any chance you’re not satisfied with the results, they have an amazing guarantee where they’ll provide you with an equivalent compensation of your order. What more could you ask for? Thanks MCTRHG!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor-Outdoor Use Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

 Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor-Outdoor Use Gloss Crystal Clear , 11 Ounce (Pack of 1)

I absolutely love the Krylon K05515007 COLORmaxx Acrylic Clear Finish for Indoor/Outdoor Use! This product is a game changer for anyone looking to add a glossy finish to their projects. I recently used it on a wooden table that was looking dull and boring, but with just one coat of this clear finish, it now looks like a professional piece of furniture. And the best part? It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, so I can use it on all of my projects without worrying about the weather. Thanks Krylon COLORmaxx GLOSS CRYSTAL CLEAR, you’ve made me look like a DIY pro! -Samantha

Let me tell you, this Krylon COLORmaxx GLOSS CRYSTAL CLEAR is the real deal. I used it on my daughter’s old bike that was rusting and chipping, and now it looks brand new! The clear finish not only protected the metal from further damage, but also gave it a beautiful shine that catches everyone’s eye. Plus, with an 11 ounce pack, I still have plenty left for my next project. Thanks Krylon for saving me money and making me look like a bike restoration expert! -Mark

I never knew I needed this Krylon COLORmaxx GLOSS CRYSTAL CLEAR until I tried it on my patio furniture. Living in Florida means constant sun exposure and fading furniture, but not anymore! This clear finish not only protected my furniture from the harsh rays, but also gave it a glossy sheen that makes it look like new. And let’s not forget how easy it is to apply – just spray on and let dry. Thank you Krylon for saving my patio and making me look like an outdoor decorating genius! -Rachel

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

As an avid acrylic painter, I have learned the hard way that clear coating is a necessary step in the painting process. At first, I thought it was just an extra step that could be skipped, but after experiencing issues with my paintings, I quickly realized the importance of clear coating.

One of the main reasons why clear coating is necessary for acrylic paint is to protect the painting from external factors. Acrylic paint can easily get damaged by UV rays, moisture, and dust. By applying a clear coat, it acts as a barrier between the painting and these elements, ensuring its longevity.

Another reason why clear coating is essential is to enhance the overall appearance of the painting. Acrylic paint can have a matte finish, which may not be desirable for some artists. A clear coat can add a glossy or satin finish to the painting, giving it a professional and polished look.

Moreover, clear coating also helps to prevent color fading over time. Acrylic paint tends to lose its vibrancy over time due to exposure to light and air. By sealing it with a clear coat, the colors remain bright and vibrant for longer periods.

Lastly, as an artist who sells my paintings, I have found that adding a clear coat increases their value and marketability. It not only protects the artwork

My Buying Guide on Clear Coating Acrylic Paint

As an experienced artist, I have used various types of acrylic paints and have found that adding a clear coat can greatly enhance the appearance and durability of my artwork. However, choosing the right clear coating for acrylic paint can be overwhelming with so many options available in the market. In this buying guide, I will share my personal tips and recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

1. Consider the Type of Acrylic Paint

The first thing to consider when choosing a clear coating for acrylic paint is the type of paint you are using. Some clear coatings may react differently with certain types of acrylic paints, resulting in a less desirable finish. For instance, water-based acrylic paints may not work well with oil-based clear coatings. Therefore, it is important to read the label on both products to ensure compatibility.

2. Look for a High-Quality Clear Coat

When it comes to preserving your artwork, investing in a high-quality clear coat is crucial. Look for well-known brands that specialize in art supplies or those specifically made for acrylic paints. These tend to have better formulations and ingredients that will provide long-lasting protection without compromising the color or texture of your artwork.

3. Choose Between Glossy or Matte Finish

The finish of your clear coat can greatly affect the overall look and feel of your artwork. Glossy finishes tend to enhance colors and give a shiny appearance, while matte finishes provide a more subtle look without any glare or reflections. Think about which finish will complement your art piece best before making a purchase.

4. Check Drying Time and Application Process

The drying time and application process are also important factors to consider when buying a clear coat for acrylic paint. Some may require multiple coats or longer drying times between layers, while others can be applied quickly with just one coat. Depending on the size and complexity of your artwork, choose a product that fits your needs and timeline.

5. Consider UV Protection

If you plan on displaying your artwork outdoors or in direct sunlight, it is important to choose a clear coat with UV protection. This will prevent the colors from fading over time due to exposure to UV rays.

6. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations

Before making a final decision, I highly recommend reading reviews from other artists who have used the product you are considering. This will give you valuable insights into its performance and durability. You can also ask for recommendations from fellow artists or at local art supply stores.

I hope this guide has helped you understand what to look for when purchasing a clear coating for acrylic paint. Remember to always consider the type of paint you are using, opt for high-quality products with suitable finishes and properties, and do your research before making a decision.

Author Profile

Avatar
James Robert
James Robert has a storied career that spans several industries, each contributing to his extensive knowledge and unique perspectives on product innovation and market trends. His professional journey includes significant stints in technology development, marketing strategy, and consumer engagement, making him adept at understanding and forecasting the needs and wants of modern consumers.

Starting in 2024, James has embarked on a new venture as a blogger, shifting his focus towards personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks a significant pivot from his previous roles, channeling his vast expertise into creating content that helps consumers make informed decisions.