Hi Marysue,

I hope your week has been a good one. We've had all kinds of action happening at our house the last few days, so I'm a day late on this week's newsletter.

It's a little bit quieter here this morning, so I'm taking the time with Lucy by my side, to share some product info with you :)

This week I wanted to discuss sealers. I've been finishing up a new series of artwork and thought I'd offer up some options for completing this part of the process, regardless of whether or not you choose to resin. Here are 2 new 12"x24" pieces I finished last week. 

I want remind you that you should ALWAYS test products you haven't used on your mixed media BEFORE applying them to your final artwork. I can't tell you how many times I've read the label and assumed it will be fine on my art, only to run into problems.

The current environment and types of media used can impact results. So keep that in mind. Currently, the weather here is cooling and my options for using sprays in the garage are limited. 

I personally prefer sprays because they generally dry faster and you don't have to worry about brush marks. Two of my favourites are by Krylon. One is their UV Archival and the other is the Conservation spray, which is basically the Kamar and UV archival combined into one. However, it's hard to find.

No matter what you choose, it's important to buy products that say 'non-yellowing' on the label. Krylon's sprays protect against fading, discolouration and contain UV light absorbers and stabilizers. 

You can use them over most mixed media. Again, testing products is really important. If you plan to resin, the sheen is irrelevant. But if resin isn't your thing, then you can choose your finish - Matte, Satin or Gloss!

I'll admit, all these spray options can get a little bit confusing. As well, Krylon appears to be going through some sort of product rebranding/labelling which means a few products are phasing out. (go figure). Anyway, I'll link to a downloadable PDF product catalog HERE. If you go to page 19/20, you'll find some comparisons on their clear coats.  

I've also been using GOLDEN's MSA spray (comes in brush-on format too). These are highly toxic and smelly. Use of a mask and working in a well ventilated area is of utmost importance, which may make them a hard NO for some people. Alternatively, you can opt for a waterborne varnish. 

GOLDEN has some great info on using their varnishes. I'll link to that HERE. 

Lastly, if you're not into sprays, you can choose brush-on varnishes. I just mentioned the GOLDEN waterborne, but I also like Liquitex's line of professional varnishes. Normally, I'm a matte kinda gal, but a gloss does provide a nice finish on the edges of your panels. You can also mix the sheens together to create your own custom finish. 

With these types of varnishes, you definitely need a great brush to reduce marks. I tend to ruin brushes on the regular, but if you can care for them and are willing to spend the money, I recommend the Gamar varnish brush from Gamblin. Gamblin also provides some great resources and tips on their website.

There are many other brands to explore, but these are some good options to get you started, or should I say, get you 'finishing' your artwork!

That's it for this week. I hope you have a great weekend and create some amazing things. Again, remember to TEST any new products you buy. 

Chat soon,

Jane.

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