Learn all about the Mod Podge Gloss formula! Find out what it is, how to use it, and see some unique projects you can make.
Almost 50 years ago, a little decoupage baby was born – and its name was Mod Podge Gloss. In 1967, a woman named Jan Wetstone developed this very first Mod Podge formula in her kitchen while trying to come up with shortcuts to decoupage for her antique shop.
And now? It is THE most popular decoupage medium of all time. So much so that I started a blog about it in 2008, and here we are 13+ years later!
Before I go on about the formula, I wanted to share a picture:
About four years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Jan Wetstone and sharing my book Mod Podge Rocks with her. It was truly a great moment and one I’ll never forget!
Which Brings Me to Mod Podge Gloss . . .
Mod Podge Gloss has a very simple concept – it is a decoupage medium (what is decoupage?) with a GLOSSY finish. This means the finish is shiny when light hits it.
Other Mod Podge formulas exist that do the exact same thing (Matte, Satin), with the only difference being the finish. Let me show you what I’m talking about:
You can see the shiny-ness, right? When you think about this formula, don’t think about it as having a special purpose (like Dishwasher Safe).
This is an all-around, general decoupage formula with a specific finish: Gloss. It’s like choosing wall paint. You can get eggshell, gloss, flat . . . . it’s all a matter of preference. Same with the Gloss.
I’ve got two more things for you before I get to questions. First of all, I’m going to share a video with you that goes over my Mod Podging process. Take a peek at the video in this post!
And secondly, I’m going to let you know what I would use this formula on. It’s simple: all basic decoupage projects that don’t require a more specialized formula!
If I’m adhering paper to wood, I’ll use this. If I’m adding fabric to a canvas, I’ll use this. Additionally, If I’m putting tissue paper on glass, I’ll use this.
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!
Questions About Glossy Mod Podge
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? Glossy – meaning, shiny in the light.
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. Do you ever use Mod Podge Gloss? What for? Yes I do. I use it for glass projects especially, because glass is shiny, and I like my finish to match the surface.
I also use it when I’m in the mood for shiny. Sometimes a project calls for that, like a Halloween project or wall art. I let how I’m feeling that day dictate the finish!
6. Sometimes my Mod Podge Gloss is tacky. Why – and how do I fix it? This formula tends to be more tacky than others when dry, especially in a humid environment. I lived in Georgia for a long time, so I always have to use a sealer with it on top – either a spray or brush-on (as long as it’s clear acrylic) will work.
Otherwise it can take months to fully cure. CURING is different than drying. Dry is dry to the touch. Curing is when it’s completely, fully dry in all layers . . . and it’s no longer tacky.
7. Where can I buy Mod Podge Gloss? 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. It’s not hard to find this formula AT ALL. Learn where to buy Mod Podge here.
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.
9. Why is Mod Podge so expensive? I’ve personally never thought Mod Podge was expensive, even before this blog. However my crafting hobbies of choice have always been knitting and textiles, and investment in those is NOT cheap comparatively speaking. If you think Mod Podge is expensive, I can respect that – but remember it’s not just glue.
I will also tell you that one bottle lasts a long time. And if you purchase at the craft store, download the store app to your smartphone or check the weekly circular if you don’t have a smartphone. They have a coupon every single week.
Are you ready for some project ideas using the Gloss formula? Check out the links below!
Gloss Mod Podge
Mod Podge Gloss can be used for so many projects from home decor to gifts to jewelry. Check out a bunch of options below!
Decorative Letters
Learn how to make decorative letters using confetti and Mod Podge! This project is perfect for a kids' room or craft studio.
Personalized Letter Ornaments
Use wood or paper mache to create these fun, personalized decoupage letter ornaments. They are easy to make with Mod Podge Gloss.
Make Baseball Bookends
Learn how to make bookends with a baseball theme! This is a fun project for the sports fan in your life, plus you can use this same idea to make other designs.
Repurpose Cookie Tins
Are you wondering what to do with old cookie tins? Learn how to repurpose them using Mod Podge and fabric! It's easy to decoupage on a tin surface.
Decoupage Bookcase
Learn how to decoupage a bookshelf with fabric - it's easier than you think!
Initial Wall Decor
Make this initial wall art using a boring piece of art from the craft store! It's easy to customize with fabric and Mod Podge.
Decorative Light Switch Covers
Turn plain outlet covers into something fabulous with fabric and Mod Podge.
Make a Confetti Bowl
Learn how to make a bowl using confetti! This is such a cool and easy craft idea.
Photo Magnets
Learn how to make easy personalized magnets using photos you'll print yourself! This is an easy and inexpensive gift to make.
DIY Step Stool
Learn how to make this cute stool using a wooden base, fabric, and Mod Podge!
Mason Jar Centerpieces
Make a mason jar table decoration using Mod Podge and some other simple supplies. Perfect for party or wedding.
DIY Canvas Art
If you like cute canvas ideas, this mini canvas art with plastic animals is going to be right up your alley!
DIY Letter Magnets
Make your own letter magnets the easy way – with a fun font too! So simple, kids can do it. Free printable with multiple letters included.
Faux Glazed Planter
Use Mod Podge and acrylic paint to create a unique DIY planter with a faux glaze. It looks like beautiful, hand painted ceramic when done!
DIY Lace Earrings
These gorgeous DIY lace earrings were made with some scraps that Justine had in her stash – they're so easy and make great gifts!
Decorate a Wood Crate
Use Mod Podge stencils and sand to decorate a wood crate – perfect for holding books, craft supplies or anything else you need to store.
Make a Monogram Canvas
Add a unique, personalized touch to your home decor with this monogram canvas! It's easy to make with a few simple supplies including Mod Podge.
Decorate a Ceiling Fan
Did you know you can decorate a ceiling fan with scrapbook paper and Mod Podge? It's way easier than you think! Here's how it's done.
Budget Friendly Canvas Art
Charley Harper is one of my favorite artists of all time – so it's natural that I would make this themed DIY canvas art using some of his prints!
Lighted Wine Bottles
If you love wine bottle crafts, these lanterns are easy to make with tissue paper and Mod Podge. The bottle lights are easy to install and make the project!
Easy Handmade Magnets
This is one of the easiest mason jar gifts you'll ever make! This jar includes handmade magnets that take minutes to make. Simple and cute!
Scrapbook Paper Mouse Pad
You won't believe how easy it is to make your own mouse pad! A DIY mouse pad is such a budget friendly project, and you can customize it any way you like with your favorite scrapbook paper.
Watercolor DIY Vase
Bring in spring with a beautiful DIY vase you can make with Mod Podge and painted watercolor paper. No skillset required!
Mod Podge Lampshade Makeover
This lampshade makeover project takes less than 30 minutes and it’s incredibly easy to do! Use your favorite fabric along with Mod Podge.
DIY Window Clings
Use Mod Podge to make your own DIY window clings on a budget – these gel window clings are so easy, and a great kids' craft!
If you enjoyed learning about this Mod Podge formula, check out our other formula guides:
Jo
Tuesday 28th of February 2023
Hi Can you tell me if there is any mod Podge I can use over a latex prop?
Amy
Tuesday 28th of February 2023
Hi Jo unfortunately I don't think so! HAVING SAID THAT - Plaid has a product meant for making costumes and props that might work: https://plaidonline.com/shop-products/plaidfx-paint-primer-clear-3-oz-36938 I would ask them about it. This line is great with latex I believe.
Marissa
Thursday 22nd of December 2022
Hi! Do you have any recommendations for a smooth gloss finish? I can't seem to not have strokes show. Thanks! 😊
Amy
Saturday 7th of January 2023
Hi Marissa! This is the official recommendation: "Use a soft bristled brush and then sand between coats. To do this, apply the Mod Podge and let it dry an hour. Then use #0000 steel wool and lightly sand the entire surface. Do this between every coat. After the final coat, sand and then spray a clear acrylic sealer to finish."
Jo
Thursday 18th of August 2022
I've Mod podg some rocks that I have found whats my next step after that
Amy
Friday 19th of August 2022
You should use a waterproof sealer if you live in a place with a lot of rain! Otherwise, you're good!
Victoria Calvert
Thursday 9th of December 2021
Can you use the gloss mod podge to transfer photos onto a wood surface
Amy
Sunday 12th of December 2021
Yes! You can do an inkjet transfer: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/inkjet-photo-transfer-to-wood/
Rosemary Corral
Wednesday 17th of November 2021
Hi, my name is Rosemary and I'VE BEEN DOING SOME ARTISTIC WORK ON STRAW HATS,,,FOOTBALL AND BASEBALL TEAMS. MY PROBLEM IS THAT WHEN a hat i finished, any little tap on it would make the paint chip away, do you think mod pauge will help the paint adhere better?
Amy
Thursday 18th of November 2021
Hi Rosemary! I would use a clear spray primer or spray paint on the hat first. Not sure if these are plastic-coated straw hats? You might need to play around a little bit. But there are spray paints for plastic too. Use a clear version to spray down before painting. Paint over the top, then spray again. You don't need Mod Podge since you aren't decoupaging.