Guide to Sealing and Protecting Your Mixed Media Art - Tips & Techniques

Hey there, art enthusiasts! 🎨 Ever spent countless hours creating a mixed media masterpiece only to wonder, "How do I keep this beauty safe from the ravages of time?" Well, you're in luck! Today, we're diving into the essential steps to seal and protect your precious art. Let's make sure your work stays fabulous for years to come, shall we?

Why Sealing and Protecting Your Art Matters

Imagine this: you’ve poured your heart and soul into a stunning mixed media piece, and a few months down the line, you notice the colours fading or materials peeling off. 😱 Sealing your artwork not only preserves the vibrant colours (it will bring them back to that wet look vibrancey) and intricate details but also protects it from dust, UV rays, and other environmental factors. Trust me, I learned this the hard way with some experimental work that didn’t make it past the summer!

Materials Needed

Before we get started, here’s what you’ll need:

• A clean, dry cloth

• Soft brush or roller or foam brush

• Suitable sealer (varnish, spray sealant, etc.)

• Protective gloves

• Mask (if using spray)

Step-by-Step Guide to Sealing Your Art 

1.       Clean and Prepare Your Artwork
Dust off any particles using a dry cloth. This ensures a smooth application and prevents those pesky specks and stray hairs from getting trapped under the sealer. Trust me, there is nothing more frustrating!

2.       Choose the Right Sealer
Not all sealers are created equal. For acrylics and collage, an acrylic-based varnish or artist medium works wonders. Glossy, matte, or satin? The choice is yours! Just make sure it's good quality and compatible with your materials. Make sure to read any manufacturers instructions before you start.

3.       Test on a Small Area
Always, always, always test your sealer on a small, inconspicuous part of your artwork or a test piece if you are working with anything new. This helps you avoid any nasty surprises, like unexpected colour changes or reactions.

4.       Apply the Sealer
Using a brush or roller, apply a thin, even layer of sealer. If you're using a spray, hold it about 12 inches away from the surface and spray in a sweeping motion. Think of it as gently misting your art and do several coats rather than trying for full coverage in one go.

5.       Let It Dry
Patience, my friend! Allow the first coat to dry completely. This can take anywhere from a couple of hours to overnight, depending on the sealer. Resist the urge to touch!

6.       Apply a Second Coat (Optional)
For extra protection, apply a second coat after the first one is dry. This adds an extra layer of durability, ensuring your masterpiece stands the test of time.

7.       My Method

I use a Matisse gloss medium (MM7) and water it down a little to an 80% medium, 20% water mix. I like the gloss finish because it highlights the textures in the painting, but you could choose your favourite level of sheen. I apply the medium using a foam brush in long strokes. I always apply at least two coats depending on the piece. The diluted medium is also useful as an isolation coat throughout the layering process. For instance, if I have used soft pastels or charcoal, I will seal the layer to prevent smudging. I do this with a spray gun to avoid disturbing the water-soluble drawings. I also seal over layers of collage papers to ensure they are securely attached and that subsequent layers don’t disturb them.

Tips and Tricks for Best Results

• Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.

• Use long, even strokes to avoid streaks and bubbles.

• If using a spray, shake the can well before and during use to ensure an even finish.

• Keep your workspace dust-free to prevent particles from settling on your wet sealer.

There you have it, folks! With this guide, you'll be well on your way to ensuring your mixed media creations remain as vibrant and stunning as the day you made them. Sealing your mixed media art is a crucial step in preserving its beauty and longevity. So, grab those sealers and give your masterpieces the protection they deserve! Have any questions or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation (and creativity) flowing! 🌟