Can You Use Mod Podge To Seal Clay Pots?
What is Mod Podge?
Mod Podge is a popular all-purpose glue, sealer, and finish made by Plaid Enterprises. It was invented in the 1960s as a decoupage medium for crafts. Since then, it has become a versatile household adhesive used for many DIY projects.
Mod Podge is a water-based acrylic polymer emulsion that dries to a clear, glossy finish. It acts as both an adhesive and a sealer. When brushed between two surfaces and allowed to dry, it adheres them together firmly. It can be used to seal and finish craft projects, preventing them from being damaged.
There are several types of Mod Podge available:
- Mod Podge Gloss – Dries to a shiny finish
- Mod Podge Matte – Dries to a non-shiny finish
- Mod Podge Sparkle – Contains glitter
- Mod Podge Outdoor – Waterproof and weatherproof
- Mod Podge Puzzle Saver – For sealing jigsaw puzzles
The thick liquid consistency allows it to be brushed on smoothly. Once dry, the finished product resists chipping, yellowing, and deterioration.
Pros of Using Mod Podge on Clay
Using Mod Podge to seal clay pots and other clay crafts offers several benefits:
Durable Seal – Mod Podge forms a tough, waterproof film over clay that protects against chipping, cracking, and other damage. The acrylic polymer seal soaks into porous clay to bind it together.
Variety of Finishes – Mod Podge comes in different formulas like matte, glossy, and glitter that allow you to get just the right look. Matte is popular for a natural clay appearance while glossy makes colors pop.
Affordable – A bottle of Mod Podge costs just a few dollars making it budget-friendly compared to other sealants. It goes a long way when sealing clay crafts.
Easy to Apply – Mod Podge brushes on smoothly straight from the bottle. No mixing or complex steps needed. It dries clear, flexible, and smooth with a simple brushstroke application.
Cons of Using Mod Podge on Clay
While Mod Podge can be an effective sealer for clay projects, there are some downsides to be aware of before using it:
Mod Podge can make clay brittle if overapplied. Applying too thick of a coat can cause the clay to become stiff and cracked. It’s important to apply thin, even coats and allow proper drying time between coats.
Mod Podge is not food-safe. Even when fully cured, surfaces sealed with Mod Podge may not be safe for food contact. This is important to consider for any clay projects meant for food use.
Mod Podge requires multiple coats to fully seal clay. Typically 2-3 thin coats are needed to seal the clay and achieve a smooth finish. This extends the time required for the project.
Over time, Mod Podge can yellow and discolor on clay. This is especially true in areas with UV exposure. The seal may take on a yellowish tinge that could alter the look of the original claywork.
Alternatives to Mod Podge for Clay
While Mod Podge is a popular choice for sealing clay projects, there are several other sealants that can work well too. Here are some of the top alternatives to consider:
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a common wood sealant that can also be effective for sealing clay. It provides a glossy, durable finish and is available in various finishes from matte to high gloss. Polyurethane works well for items that will get frequent use like cups or bowls. It dries harder than Mod Podge.
Resin
Two-part epoxy resin can provide an extremely tough, durable finish for clay items. Resin gives items a thick, glass-like coating. The downside is resin can be more difficult to apply evenly compared to other sealants. Resin also gives off fumes as it cures.
Wax
Wax is easy to apply and buff out for a soft, low-sheen look. Beeswax and carnuba wax are common choices. Wax provides light protection for clay but will need reapplication over time. Wax is a good option for food-safe finishes.
Varnish
Varnish comes in different sheens from matte to high-gloss. It penetrates and seals clay while providing a harder finish than Mod Podge. Varnish works well for items that will be frequently handled or washed. Multiple coats are usually needed for best protection.
Comparison to Mod Podge
Compared to the alternatives above, Mod Podge offers some advantages. It’s very easy to apply in thin, even coats compared to products like resin or polyurethane. It also dries fully clear without yellowing over time. Mod Podge provides good durability for the cost. However, it does not offer as hard of a finish as resin or polyurethane. For food-safe or frequent-use items, other sealants may hold up better long term.
Preparing Clay for Mod Podge
Properly preparing your clay before sealing it with Mod Podge is crucial for getting the best results. Here are some tips on getting your clay ready:
Cleaning and drying clay thoroughly – Make sure to wash your finished clay piece with mild soap and water to remove any dust or residue. Allow it to dry fully, as any moisture left behind can cause issues with the sealant adhering and curing properly. Letting it air dry for 24-48 hours is best.
Avoiding cracking/crazing – Don’t rush the drying time or force-dry clay too quickly with heat sources. Allowing moisture to evaporate from the clay slowly prevents cracking and crazing issues later on. Also avoid applying thick layers of clay that could dry at different rates.
Smoothing the surface – For best results with Mod Podge, sand your clay gently with fine grit sandpaper once fully dry. This will remove any rough areas and create a smoother surface for the sealant to adhere to. Be careful not to sand too much or you may thin delicate clay pieces.
Applying Mod Podge to Clay
Once your clay has been properly cleaned, prepared, and baked, you are ready to apply Mod Podge as a sealant. There are two main methods for applying Mod Podge to clay: with a brush or with a spray bottle.
Using a brush allows you to control the application and ensures even coverage. Select a good quality soft bristle brush. Apply a thin but opaque layer of Mod Podge, being careful not to cause brush strokes or drips. Let the first coat dry completely, then apply a second coat for the best protection. Two to three thin coats are recommended.
Spraying Mod Podge can be faster but it can easily lead to drips and uneven coverage. Use light coats and keep the nozzle about 8 inches from the surface. Allow each coat to dry fully before adding another. As with brushing, plan to apply at least two coats.
Regardless of application method, make sure the Mod Podge has fully dried between coats. This usually takes 1-2 hours. The clay piece should have a uniform glossy coating when complete. Allow the final coat to dry for 24 hours before use.
For extra protection, a top coat of acrylic sealer spray can be applied over the cured Mod Podge. This gives the piece an extra layer of protection from moisture and handling. Let the Mod Podge cure fully before adding a top coat.
Sealing Different Types of Clay
When using Mod Podge to seal clay pots, it’s important to consider the different types of clay and how they may interact with the sealant. The main types of clay used for pottery are earthenware, stoneware, porcelain, and terracotta.
Earthenware
Earthenware is a porous, permeable clay that absorbs water. It’s a common choice for handcrafted pottery and terra cotta plant pots. Earthenware needs to be sealed well with Mod Podge since the clay is quite absorbent. Multiple coats are recommended to protect the clay from moisture.
Stoneware
Stoneware clay is dense, impermeable, and can withstand high temperatures. It’s naturally water-resistant, so sealing with Mod Podge is optional for decorative purposes. However, applying a sealant can help strengthen stoneware and prevent staining, chipping, and cracking.
Porcelain
Porcelain is non-porous, vitreous, and glass-like when fired at high temperatures. It has very low permeability, so sealing is unnecessary for waterproofing. But Mod Podge can be used to seal paint on porcelain pots or give items a glossy finish.
Terracotta
Like earthenware, terracotta is porous and absorbent due to its high iron content. It readily soaks up water, so multiple coats of Mod Podge are essential to waterproof terracotta planters and pots. Seal all surfaces for maximum protection.
Making Mod Podge Food Safe
When using Mod Podge on clay that will hold food, it’s crucial to make sure the sealant is fully food-safe. Regular Mod Podge contains chemicals like formaldehyde, phenol, and benzene that can leach into food, especially when heated. To avoid this, there are a couple options:
You can add a food-safe top coat over the cured Mod Podge. Good options are:
- Food-safe epoxy resin
- Beeswax
- Mineral oil
- Walnut oil
Applying 2-3 thin coats of one of these will create a barrier to prevent any chemicals leaching out.
Alternatively, you can use a specially formulated food-safe Mod Podge. Mod Podge makes one called Dishwasher Safe that is free of toxic ingredients. As long as you let it fully cure for at least 21 days after application, it will be non-toxic and safe for food use.
With either option, be sure to wash the item thoroughly after curing and before first use. And don’t put extremely hot food or liquids directly into a Mod Podged clay vessel. With reasonable care, you can safely use Mod Podge to seal clay pottery for food.
Mod Podge Clay Seal Longevity
The longevity of a Mod Podge seal on clay depends on several factors. With proper application and care, a Mod Podge seal can last for years. However, it’s not unusual for touch-ups to be required over time as the seal naturally wears down with regular use and cleaning.
In general, a matte or gloss finish Mod Podge seal on cured clay will last 1-3 years with moderate use. The seal holds up well to gentle handwashing but can eventually start to crack or peel, especially in areas that receive a lot of wear like edges and handles. Using a finishing spray like acrylic sealer on top of the Mod Podge extends the longevity of the seal.
To maximize the life of a Mod Podge seal on clay, avoid soaking the piece, use mild cleaners, and handwash gently. Don’t use abrasive scrubbers or cleaners. Wipe spills promptly to avoid moisture sitting on the surface. Periodically inspect the piece for any cracks or peeling, and touch-up these spots with a fresh coat of Mod Podge. This protects the clay underneath and prevents further damage.
With proper application and ongoing care, a Mod Podge seal can protect clay for years of use while still allowing the natural texture and beauty of the clay to show through. Regular inspection and spot touch-ups will preserve the seal and extend the life of your Mod Podged clay piece.
Mod Podge Tips and Tricks
When working with Mod Podge, there are some useful tips and tricks to keep in mind for best results:
Avoiding Brush Strokes
To prevent visible brush strokes in the Mod Podge, use a foam brush instead of a standard bristle brush. The foam brush allows you to apply the sealer smoothly and evenly.
Spraying Evenly
If using Mod Podge in spray form, hold the can 6-8 inches away from the clay surface. Apply light, even coats allowing each layer to fully dry before adding another. Avoid holding the spray can too close or you may end up with drips.
Storage after Opening
Once opened, transfer Mod Podge to an airtight container. This prevents the sealer from drying out between uses. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Cleanup
Clean brushes used for Mod Podge with warm, soapy water. Since Mod Podge dries quickly, it’s best to rinse brushes immediately after use. Isopropyl alcohol can also be used to remove dried Mod Podge from surfaces and brushes.
