Introduction to Zelcryl Acrylic Mediums
Exploring Zelcryl Brand
Zelcryl is one of the notable brands offering a stunning array of acrylic mediums and varnishes. They’re in good company, rubbing shoulders with esteemed brands like Winsor and Newton, Maimeri, Liquitex, and Dala (My Art Shop). Zelcryl is proudly produced in South Africa, adding a touch of local flair to its high-quality products. Here, we’ll dive into the world of Zelcryl, exploring what sets them apart from the crowd.
Unique Offerings of Zelcryl
So, what makes Zelcryl tick? Well, they offer a range of specialized acrylic mediums and varnishes that cater to the needs of creative spirits. Whether you’re looking for a glossy finish, a matte look, or something to mix and blend with your paints, Zelcryl has got you covered. Here’s a sneak peek at their offerings:
- Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium
- Adds a delightful sheen to your artwork.
- Ideal for enhancing the texture and finish of acrylic paintings.
- Zelcryl Gloss Varnish
- Perfect for protecting your masterpiece with a glossy layer.
- Application is easy as pie: just two thin coats, but make sure your painting is bone-dry!
- Always remember to clean your brushes immediately after use with water.
- Zelcryl Matt Varnish
- For those who prefer a non-glossy finish.
- Provides the same level of protection while maintaining that sophisticated, subtle look.
Understanding Zelcryl Acrylic Mediums
Zelcryl offers a variety of acrylic mediums, each with its unique properties designed to enhance your artwork. Here, we’ll dive into the details of three popular products: the Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium, Zelcryl Gloss Varnish, and Zelcryl Matt Varnish.
Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium
The Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium is like the secret sauce for acrylic artists. This medium is designed to increase the gloss and transparency of your paint, giving your artwork a vibrant and shiny finish. Available in a 100ml tube (My Art Shop), it’s the go-to product for artists looking to add some oomph to their pieces.
| Product | Size |
|---|---|
| Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium | 100ml |
It’s a versatile medium that can be mixed with your acrylic paints or used on its own to create texture and depth.
Zelcryl Gloss Varnish
The Zelcryl Gloss Varnish 100ml is perfect for giving your completed artwork a professional finish. This varnish adds a glossy protective layer to your paintings. It’s essential to apply it in two thin coats, allowing the paint to dry thoroughly before each application.
| Product | Size | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Zelcryl Gloss Varnish | 100ml | 2 thin coats for protection |
This varnish is not designed to be used as an acrylic medium—using it this way could be akin to using a spoon as a fork: not recommended!
Zelcryl Matt Varnish
For those who prefer a non-glossy finish, the Zelcryl Matt Varnish is the way to go. It provides a protective matt finish to your acrylic paintings, ensuring that your artwork looks sleek without the shine. Available in a 100ml size (MyArtShop).
| Product | Size |
|---|---|
| Zelcryl Matt Varnish | 100ml |
Both the gloss and matt varnishes are essential tools in any artist’s arsenal, offering unique protective qualities that can help preserve the integrity of your artwork. Whether you want your paintings to sparkle or to have a muted elegance, Zelcryl has got you covered.
How to Use Zelcryl Acrylic Mediums
Creative artists, are you ready to dive into the world of Zelcryl acrylic mediums? Whether you’re looking to add a glossy sheen, a matte finish, or just an extra layer of pizzazz, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore some ways to master the use of Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium, Gloss Varnish, and Matt Varnish.
Application Techniques
Applying Zelcryl acrylic mediums can be as satisfying as showing off a new piece to your cat (who totally gets it, of course).
Zelcryl Gloss Gel Medium
This gel medium is perfect for creating texture and adding volume to your work. It dries clear and glossy, making colours pop like a well-shaken snow globe.
- Use a palette knife to spread the medium on your canvas, creating peaks and valleys.
- Mix with acrylic paint to extend the paint without losing its brilliance.
- Apply in a thick layer for 3D effects or a thin layer for smoother finishes.
Zelcryl Gloss Varnish
The Gloss Varnish adds a shiny finish to your painting, but remember, it’s not a medium.
- Use a soft, wide brush to evenly apply the varnish.
- Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each layer to dry for that diamond-gloss finish.
- If you fancy a glassy look akin to a freshly polished race car, multiple layers are your friend.
Zelcryl Matt Varnish
The Matt Varnish helps take down the shine, creating a flat, non-reflective surface, perfect for those who like it low-key.
- Apply with a soft brush in long, even strokes.
- Ensure even coverage to avoid patchiness.
- Multiple layers can deepen the matte effect. Just think of it as layering on the sophistication.
Tips for Mixing and Layering
Layering and mixing mediums can turn you into the crafting wizard you’ve always dreamed of being.
- Consistency is Key: Mix the Gloss Gel Medium thoroughly with your paint for a smooth, consistent texture.
- Layer with Care: When layering, always ensure each coat is completely dry before adding another to avoid smearing.
- Mixing Proportions: For most mixing, consider starting with a 1:1 ratio of medium to paint. Adjust based on desired thickness or effect.
| Medium | Ideal Use | Dry Time |
|---|---|---|
| Gloss Gel Medium | Textures & Volume | 24 hours |
| Gloss Varnish | Shiny Finish | 1-2 hours per coat |
| Matt Varnish | Non-reflective Finish | 1-2 hours per coat |
Exploring Zelcryl acrylic mediums can elevate your artwork, making each piece a standout. Remember to experiment and find what works best for your unique style.
What to Use Zelcryl Acrylic Mediums On
Zelcryl acrylic mediums are versatile and can help you achieve various artistic effects. Knowing where and how to use these products can bring out the best in your creations.
Ideal Surfaces for Zelcryl Products
Zelcryl acrylic mediums are adaptable and can be used on a variety of surfaces, ensuring that your creativity isn’t limited.
| Surface Type | Notes |
|---|---|
| Canvas | Ideal for most acrylic painting techniques. Smooth or textured, it’s all good. |
| Wood | Provides a stable foundation when primed properly. Perfect for mixed media. |
| Paper | Best if heavy-duty or specifically designed for acrylics to avoid warping. |
| Masonite | Durable and smooth, offers great adhesion. Prime it for best results. |
| Metal | A bit unconventional, but with proper prepping and priming, it’s a go! |
For even more adventurous applications, try experimenting with textured surfaces or even unconventional materials. Just make sure whatever surface you choose, you prime it appropriately to ensure longevity and vibrancy in your artwork.
Compatibility with Different Paints
Zelcryl products can be seamlessly integrated with various acrylic paints, but understanding the interaction with different types of acrylics can enhance your results.
Standard Acrylic Paints
Zelcryl mediums, such as the Zelcryl Gloss Varnish, work excellently with standard acrylic paints. Users have noted that mixing Zelcryl mediums with brands like Amsterdam Acrylics yields beautiful colors and a glossy finish, perfect for adding a touch of shimmer.
| Paint Type | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Acrylic Paints | Excellent | Produces vibrant, glossy effects. |
| Heavy Body Acrylics | Good | May require more medium for fluidity. |
| Fluid Acrylics | Great | Easy to mix and spread, ideal for layering. |
| Metallic and Pearlescent Paints | Excellent | Enhances shimmer and shine. |
Specialty Paints
When using specialty paints like metallics or iridescents, the right Zelcryl acrylic medium can amplify their unique properties.
By understanding the ideal surfaces and compatibility of Zelcryl acrylic mediums with different paints, artists can optimise their tools and techniques, allowing for creative freedom and a polished finish in any project.
Whether you’re teaming up with Zelcryl for a seamless finish or sticking with the familiar names of Winsor and Newton and Liquitex, each has its place in an artist’s studio. With Zelcryl’s competitive pricing and growing reputation, it’s certainly worth a dive for any creative soul looking to unleash their inner artist!
