Apple Barrel acrylic paint works on a wide range of surfaces including wood, canvas, paper, terra cotta, plaster, tin, Styrofoam, and most primed craft surfaces. For non-porous surfaces like glass, ceramic, and metal, reach for Apple Barrel Multi-Surface, which is specially formulated to adhere and bond. For best results on porous surfaces like raw wood, prime with gesso or a base coat first, and always start with a clean, dry surface.
How many coats do I need, and how does it take to dry?
Most projects need 1-2 coats for solid, opaque coverage, though 2-3 coats may be needed over dark or heavily textured surfaces. Apply thin, even coats and let each one dry before adding the next. Paint dries to the touch in about 20-30 minutes under normal conditions, and reaches a full cure in roughly 24 hours (up to 24-72 hours for thicker applications or in high humidity).
Is Apple Barrel paint waterproof, and can I use it outdoors?
Select Apple Barrelpaints are formulated to work for both indoor and outdoor projects. We recommend reaching for our Gloss Indoor/Outdoor paint or Multi-surface paint. For extra durability for outdoor projects like planters, garden signs, and porch décor, apply a clear weather-resistant sealer (such as a water-based varnish or acrylic spray sealer) once your paint is fully cured. Avoid constant standing water and extreme conditions for the longest-lasting results.
Do I need to seal my project after painting?
Sealing isn'trequired for purely decorative pieces, but it'shighly recommended for anything that will be handled often, exposed to moisture, or used outdoors. A clear sealer protects against chipping, scuffing, and fading and it's especially helpful for matte finishes. If looking for a sealer, we recommendMod Podge, a brush-on acrylic varnish, or a clear spray sealer. Always let your paint cure fully before sealing.
Is Apple Barrel AP-certified non-toxic?
The Approved Product (AP) Seal by the Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) identifies art materials that are certified in a toxicological evaluation by a board certified toxicologist to contain no materials in sufficient quantities to be toxic or injurious to humans, including children, or to cause acute or chronic health problems. These products are certified by ACMI to be labeled in accordance with the chronic hazard labeling standard, ASTM D4236, and the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (FHSA), including the U.S. Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act (LHAMA).
