What is a crackle medium?
Crackle medium is a specialty product that causes paint applied over it to crack, resulting in a finish that looks aged and distressed. The more different the base coat and top coat paint colors are, the more dramatic the crackled effect, as it will be more visible than when using two similar colors.
How do you use crackling medium?
Crackle medium is a perfect tool for getting your painted surface to look antique. Simply cover your paint with a layer of crackle medium and wait for the crackle paint to dry before adding sealant or more layers. Keep the cracks fine by applying just one thin layer, or increase crack sizes by adding more.
Can you make your own crackle medium?
A homemade crackle medium is an incredibly simple recipe, requiring only a suitable glue. School glue and wood glue both work; school glue is generally less expensive and available at more stores. Even dollar-store school glue works as a crackle medium.
What’s the best way to apply Crackle medium?
Be sure to roll in many directions when applying the medium. You want the crackle effect to be non directional. Once you are done applying a relatively even coat of crackle medium let it dry thoroughly. This may take a while but you can speed it up using a blow dryer or setting your piece in front of a fan.
Can you use Crackle medium on stained wood?
The small type of crackle medium can be applied over stained, painted or sealed woods. Once it is applied, it will crackle on its own. It should be allowed to cure for a few hours; then a colored glazing stain is wiped and brushed out. Once the glaze is dry, it is clear-coated.
How long does it take for Crackle gel to dry?
Both steps are white gels that dry clear and are easy to apply with a brush. Water clean up. Single step crackle white gel/cream which dries clear. Applied with a palette knife. Requires at least 24 hours to dry depending on thickness of application. Water clean up. Single step crackle, clear gel.
What kind of paint to use on crackle finish?
Latex paints can also be sprayed; you could spray the base color coat and allow it to dry; then apply the crackle medium by brushing in one direction with a large brush. Then spray on your latex colored topcoat. Once dry, apply a coat or two of a water-clear water-base coating to protect and preserve the finish.