I hear you … you want a one step sealer – easy to apply and one that will last forever, right?
But is that even possible? The answer is – NO – it is not a reasonable expectation.
Why? The first thing you have to do is consider all the elements of the weather of where you live
Heat ~ Sun ~ Rain ~ Cold ~ Snow
Next consider the sealer you are using. Is it from the craft store and one that is used for indoor craft projects? Or are you using a sealer from the hardware store that is used for car restoration or outside furniture?
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I just thought of another fun fact… Is your sealer compatible with the product you are using to decorate your rock? The directions given on the sealer is not written for an outdoor rock so you have to understand the product. If the sealer is meant to seal a journal page not exposed to much light, chances are it is not that compatible on a rock left outside in the garden in full light.
A UV sealer will not stop your colour from fading, if your colour is not compatiable in UV light. Alcohol inks, sharpies, watercolours fade in the light – easily. The sealer may slightly slow the process but does not stop it. UV resistant mostly means the sealer itself will not yellow in the UV light as it resists the UV. It will stay nice and clear no matter how much sun. UV resistant & non yellowing claims go hand in hand.
Will my sealer last forever? NO, not a chance. Depending on your climate conditions is to how often you need to REseal your rocks. TO be safe it is 1-2 times per year to maintain their quality.
A proper rock sealant from the hardware can last 3-5 years, but we do not use this industrial product on our rocks. Most people use craft sealers , so once or twice a year is recommended.
Think about it , if you leave your furniture outside – does it stay intact forever? NO , depending on the elements it needs resealing. IN what timeframe noone can really tell you, it is a bit of trial and error. Some of us have severe sun, some get snow – all of the different elements give a different result in how the rock fares up. It also matters what you use to paint your rock with – Acrylic paint is the recommended paint but within itself it has all different qualities. Ones with low grade and low qty pigment will fade quicker. In other words CHEAP craft paint does not last for ages.
So how do I figure it all out? I create test rocks. I paint my rock with my favourite paints and seal it . Once dry, I leave it outside in full sun and in a spot where if it would rain, it will get wet . I push all boundaries and I check in on it each week for a month, and I note my outcome. After one month I am happy to recommend my process in tutorials and here on the website. For my own personal garden , I just keep an eye on things if I see a rock that’s looking a bit worn I bring it in and touch it up, just as I do with my furniture. If my rocks do not last the month I do not recommend the products used. Keep on reading , there is heaps more great info below …..
This can be one of the hardest things to make a decision on as there are so many opinions out there. We have tested every sealing method we recommend and share with you. There is no guesswork in what we recommend.
You need to use a sealer that is non yellowing and water resistant and at the same time does not make your colours bleed-
WHAT SEALERS TO USE
How many varieties of paint and paint pens can there be… don’t be overwhelmed – a simple rule to stick to is use Acrylic Paint for both paint and the pens.
We have tested at great lengths acrylic paint pens and these are the ones that stand up to easy use & long lasting – WHICH PAINT PENS TO USE Or you may be more interested in using acrylic paint and creating with brushes – HERE ARE SOME PAINTS TO LEARN ABOUT AND TRY
2X Varnish Spray
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Duraclear brush on
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Krylon UV Varnish
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Liquitex brush on
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