In most cases you don't need to use a sealant before applying ArtResin; however, there are some situations when sealing first makes sense:  sealing over paper, sealing over loose materials and sealing over natural objects that may off-gas, such as wood. We always recommend doing a test on a scrap piece before you resin your masterpiece. If in doubt, it never hurts to use a sealant first.

When To Seal: 

Sealing to prevent absorption:  It's a good precaution to pre-seal when applying ArtResin over paper that may otherwise absorb the resin, causing dark, wet spots in your work or causing your work to bleed. Typically, soft, matte, or low-quality paper can be prone to absorbing resin. You may need to seal more than once to prevent the resin from seeping into the paper.  




Sealing over loose material:  If you're resining over loose materials, like chalk pastel or glitter, you want to be mindful of loose particles. A sealant tacks down that material so that when you pour the resin over top, it won't float away with the liquid resin. 




Sealing to prevent bubbles: Organic materials such as wood and paper may contain trapped air which can release into your resin as bubbles. There are many variables that can affect gas bubbles: the type of wood, how dry it is, and humidity can all affect how much air wood contains. With paper, soft paper and paper that has been layered into a collage can contain trapped air.  Pre-sealing with a spray or brush-on sealant is a good option to help to prevent bubbles. 

Which Sealant Should I Use?

Whether you use a spray or a brush on sealant, always choose a sealant that dries clear and is appropriate for your artwork.  Allow the sealant to fully dry before you apply your resin coat.   Always test first before you resin your final piece to make sure there is no reaction between the sealant and resin.