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Mod Podge Matte: Your Complete Guide

Learn all about the Mod Podge Matte formula! Find out what it is, how to use it, and see some unique projects you can make.

Mod Podge Matte Facebook

I already wrote an article about Mod Podge Gloss, the original Mod Podge. I’m happy to share with you today the amazing sister (brother?) of the Gloss formula: Mod Podge Matte!

Let me start by telling you something about Mod Podge Matte you might not know:

IT IS EXACTLY THE SAME as Mod Podge Gloss and Mod Podge Satin with the exception of the finish.

Think about paint. It comes in different finishes, right? There’s gloss, high-gloss, eggshell . . . etc. The only difference being the sheen when the light hits it. And that’s my point with this particular decoupage medium.

The Matte formula causes the light to diffuse when it hits it, so the surface is non-shiny. Let me show you what I’m talking about:

Mod Podge Matte swatch

Why would you pick the Mod Podge Matte formula over Gloss or Satin? It’s about personal preference. You would choose this formula if you like the finish better than the other two formulas. Don’t you love choices?

It’s perfect for all basic decoupage projects that don’t require a more specialized formula! I use this formula for adhering paper to wood, adding fabric to canvas, or even putting tissue paper on glass.

Having said that, if I want to add fabric to fabric, I’ll use Fabric Mod Podge. If I want to have a little sparkle on my item, I’ll use Mod Podge Extreme Glitter. Do you see what I’m saying?

I find MOST of the time what I’m doing only requires the Gloss/Satin/Matte basic Mod Podge formulas. I just love it!

If you’re ready, let’s move onto the FAQ!

Questions About Mod Podge Matte

1. How do I know if I should pick Mod Podge Gloss – or Matte – or Satin? Which is best for my project? There isn’t a “best” for your project when it comes to these formulas. They are exactly the same with the exception of the finish – aka, the level of shine.

2. What is the finish of this formula? Flat – meaning most of the light diffuses. Minimal shine.

3. What surfaces can I use this formula on? Wood, canvas, tin, metal, terra cotta, and more. If fabric is your base, use Fabric Mod Podge.

4. Can I use this to decoupage shoes? Or for outdoor items? Or for clothing? I highly recommend selecting the appropriate formula for your purpose using this guide HERE.

The various formulas are not the same thing with a different bottle label. The specialized formulas have different ingredients, and different prices too. There’s a reason for that.

5. When do you use Mod Podge Matte? I use this formula want a flat (non-shiny) finish! I like my wall art to be matte and non-shiny typically. It depends on my mood that day.

6. Where can I buy Matte Mod Podge? This is the typically the top selling and most widely available formula, and that means it’s just about everywhere: Amazon, Home Depot, Dollar Tree, Walmart, Target, Michaels, Jo-Ann, Hobby Lobby, AC Moore, and on and on. Please reference my post on where to buy Mod Podge.

8. Does it come in different sizes? This formula comes in the most sizes: 2 oz., 8 oz., 16 oz., 32 oz., and even gallon.

Are you ready for some project ideas using Mod Podge Matte? Check out the links below!

Learn how to use Mod Podge Matte with this great list of projects ranging from home decor to gifts and more.


Did you enjoy learning more about Mod Podge Matte? I’d love for you to check out these other formula guides:

Brushstroke • Dishwasher Safe • Furniture • Glow in the Dark • Hard Coat • Outdoor • Satin • Sparkle • Super Matte • Dimensional Magic • Photo Transfer Medium • Puzzle Saver • Stiffy • Ultra

Mod Podge Matte Web Story

Snehal

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

Hello,

Does Mod Podge Matte Mat Mate contain eggs or treennuts?

Also, is it produced in a facility that contains eggs or treenuts?

Thanks,

Amy

Wednesday 31st of August 2022

Hi Snehal! It sounds like you have some allergies. Please contact Plaid - who makes Mod Podge - to get the official answer. https://plaidonline.com/contact

Hattie Duncan

Friday 4th of March 2022

What are your thoughts about painting over matte mat-mate mod podge?

Amy

Friday 4th of March 2022

You can paint over the Mod Podges with acrylic paint! Like regular craft paint. Then you can Mod Podge over the top. Wait until everything dries between layers :)

Jane

Sunday 1st of August 2021

I'm unsure how much to buy. Will be using it for about 32 4x4 tile coasters.

Chery

Thursday 17th of June 2021

I accidentally put gloss Mod Podge over a mixed media collage because the bottle was labelled wrong.( It said mat when it was gloss) Can I now put mat Mod Podge over the gloss finish? Thanks!

Amy

Friday 18th of June 2021

Hi Cheryl! Yes you can. Not a problem at all!

Trudie Hodges

Monday 15th of February 2021

I am looking for a waterproof sealant to seal the back of broken porcelain/china that I am turning into pendants or earrings. I have had to use a sanding wheel to thin the china for setting in silver so the back and edges of the china pieces are now porous. Which Mod Podge would you recommend? Hardcore?

Amy

Tuesday 16th of February 2021

Hi Trudie! THere are no Mod Podge formulas that are completely waterproof: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/is-mod-podge-waterproof/ Since you aren't really decoupaging, I'd just grab a waterproof sealer from the hardware store. Something like Minwax. Mod Podge is a great sealer, but that's usually in regards to decoupage projects. Good luck, sounds very cool!