What Do You Use To Seal Salt Dough Ornaments?

Salt dough ornaments are a fun and easy craft that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are also a great way to add a personal touch to your holiday décor. Once you have created your salt dough ornaments, you will need to seal them to protect them from moisture and damage. There are a few different ways to seal salt dough ornaments, and the best method for you will depend on the desired finish and durability.

Clear Sealants: Acrylic Spray

One of the most popular ways to seal salt dough ornaments is to use a clear acrylic spray. This type of sealant is easy to apply and dries quickly, leaving a clear, glossy finish. Acrylic spray is also water-resistant, making it a good choice for ornaments that will be displayed outdoors. Make sure the salt dough ornaments are thoroughly dry before applying the acrylic spray. Acrylic spray also comes in a matte finish if you prefer a less shiny look.

Mod Podge

Mod Podge is a water-based sealer that is available in both a matte and glossy finish. It is easy to apply, dries quickly, and is water-resistant. Mod Podge is also relatively inexpensive, making it a good option for sealing large numbers of salt dough ornaments. Apply Mod Podge with a paintbrush or sponge. Be sure to apply several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Clear Nail Polish

Clear nail polish is another option for sealing salt dough ornaments. It is easy to apply and dries quickly. However, clear nail polish is not as durable as other sealants, so it may not be the best choice for ornaments that will be handled frequently or displayed outdoors. For added durability, apply two to three coats of clear nail polish.

Gesso

Gesso is a white primer that is used to prepare surfaces for painting. It can also be used to seal salt dough ornaments. Gesso dries to a matte finish and is water-resistant. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to apply. Apply gesso with a paintbrush or sponge. Be sure to apply several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

PVA Glue

PVA glue is a white glue that is commonly used for woodworking and paper crafts. It can also be used to seal salt dough ornaments. PVA glue dries to a clear, glossy finish and is water-resistant. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to apply. Apply PVA glue with a paintbrush or sponge. Be sure to apply several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Shellac

Shellac is a natural resin that is derived from the lac beetle. It is used to seal and protect wood and other surfaces. Shellac can also be used to seal salt dough ornaments. Shellac dries to a clear, glossy finish and is water-resistant. It is also relatively durable, making it a good choice for ornaments that will be handled frequently or displayed outdoors. Apply shellac with a paintbrush or sponge. Be sure to apply several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Additional Tips for Sealing Salt Dough Ornaments

• Use a light touch. When applying sealant to your salt dough ornaments, use a light touch to avoid smudging or smearing the paint.
• Allow the sealant to dry completely. Before handling or displaying your salt dough ornaments, allow the sealant to dry completely. This will help to ensure that the sealant is properly bonded to the ornament and will not rub off or smudge.
• Store your salt dough ornaments in a cool, dry place. Once your salt dough ornaments are sealed, they can be stored in a cool, dry place for many years to come.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the best way to seal salt dough ornaments?

   • There are several different ways to seal salt dough ornaments, including using a clear acrylic spray, Mod Podge, clear nail polish, gesso, PVA glue, and shellac. The best method for you will depend on the desired finish and durability.

2. Can I use food-grade sealant on salt dough ornaments?

   • Yes, you can use food-grade sealant on salt dough ornaments if you plan on using them as food decorations. However, food-grade sealant is not as durable as other sealants, so it may not be the best choice for ornaments that will be handled frequently or displayed outdoors.

3. How do I store salt dough ornaments?

   • Salt dough ornaments should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming damaged or moldy. You can store them in a cardboard box or plastic container with a lid.