No, direct mixing of FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat with other paint products will compromise the color, finish and ability to shift colors. However, you can create a sheen story by layering a matte acrylic paint over sections of Flash Iridescent Topcoat, or by applying the topcoat over sections of the surface rather than creating an overall finish.
Although FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat is water-based, the use of water to thin the topcoat is not recommended as it will reduce the adhesion properties as well as disperse the optically variable pigments of the topcoat.
Yes, painted glassware can be safely washed by hand and is top shelf dishwasher safe without chipping, cracking or fading. Do not soak in water.
Absolutely. FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat is formulated so that it can be used on interior surfaces as well as on surfaces that are outdoor worthy. By the nature of the acrylic polymers used to make FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat, it is weather resistant. When cured to the surface, (approximately 48 hours), it is self-sealing. Once cured to the project surface, it is water and fade resistant under normal conditions.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat will dry to the touch very quickly, when painted on most surfaces, however, it will take approximately 48 hours before it is cured to surfaces other than glassware or ceramics.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat because it is non-toxic and water-based, is easy to clean out of painting tools immediately after use, while wet, with soap and water.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat does not require a lot of surface prep. The main concern is to have the surface thoroughly cleaned, and basecoated with FolkArt Acrylics well, prior to applying the topcoat.
- Wood – Sand smooth any rough areas, apply a basecoat of acrylic paint; allow to dry. Lightly sand smooth and reapply the base color. Allow to dry.
- Terra Cotta – Wipe to remove dust. If the terra cotta has been previously used, be sure to thoroughly clean in warm soapy water to remove all dirt deposits and allow to dry completely. If the terra cotta flower pot will be used with live plants, seal interior prior to planting so water does not seep through possibly blistering exterior paint. Apply a basecoat of acrylic paint.
- Metal and Tinware– Metal that has been enameled or sealed should be washed in warm soapy water, dried and then wiped with rubbing alcohol to remove remaining grease or soap residue. Allow to dry and then apply the desired basecoat.
- Canvas – No prep required prior to painting the basecoat on canvas.
- Rigid Plastic – Wash the surface well in warm soapy water, rinse and thoroughly dry. Wipe over surface with rubbing alcohol prior to painting on rigid plastic to remove remaining grease or soap residue. Then apply desired basecoat color.
- Papier Mache – Wipe over surface with dry paper towel to remove dust and then basecoat.
- Glass and Ceramics – Wash surface well in warm soapy water, rinse and allow to dry thoroughly. Wipe over surface with rubbing alcohol to remove remaining soap or grease residue. Paint desired basecoat of color or use directly on glass.
- Bisque or Unglazed Ceramics – Wipe to remove dust or loose dirt. Basecoat acrylic color of choice.
Yes, FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat, when applied to glassware, should be baked-to-cure the paint to the glass making it permanent and washable. See
how to cure painted glass projects to learn more.
No it is not necessary to seal or varnish FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat, as it is self-sealing, and was developed to be used as a topcoat or top finish alone.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat can be applied to most paintable craft surfaces such as wood, terra cotta, stretched canvas, rigid plastic, papier mache, metal, bisque ware or unglazed ceramics, glass and ceramics. However, the color shifting properties of this amazing topcoat appear best when applied onto a smooth, basecoated 3-dimensional surface that will reflect light. Keep in mind that FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat was developed to be used as a topcoat and not a paint.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent is a water-based, easy-to-brush-on, clear multi-surface topcoat that when applied to a painted surface, will produce a metallic luster. This metallic luster will shift colors when the direction of light on the top coated surface changes, because FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat is infused with special pigments which will create unique optical illusions. This unique topcoat is available in two spectacular color shifting combinations.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat can be applied over many different colors as well as a variety of different color values. For the most vivid color effects, apply FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat over a dark color base.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat can be brushed directly onto most basecoated craft surfaces. However, it can also be applied on sealed surfaces without a base of color such as glassware or glazed ceramics.
FolkArt Flash Iridescent Topcoat, when applied to a surface, will appear milky white while it is wet. As it dries, the color shifting properties will become apparent.