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 16+ years later!
Before I go on about the formula, I wanted to share a picture:
Over ten 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!
If you enjoyed learning about this Mod Podge formula, check out our other formula guides:
Brushstroke • Dishwasher Safe • Extreme Glitter • Fabric • Glow in the Dark • Hard Coat • Matte • Outdoor • Satin • Sparkle • Super Matte • Dimensional Magic • Photo Transfer Medium • Puzzle Saver • Stiffy • Ultra
Your little 4 minute video was very good and informative, but was it necessary to have it interrupted 6 times with ads? I understand ads at the beginning of a video, but during it? And 6 times? Too much in my opinion. May prevent me from watching more of your videos.
Hi Debra! Thank you for the feedback. I just watched it and didn’t have the same experience, so I’ll have to check into it!
I enjoyed the video also, it was informative. But I too had problems with the ads popping up about 6 times. They wouldn’t X out and brought the whole ad up. Annoying however it won’t prevent me from viewing more. Thank you!!????
I would have loved to watch the entire video but my viewing also stopped for ads. While annoying, the ads wouldn’t let me proceed. Whether I tried to X out of the video or let it play through, the video started over again. I did get far enough in to discover the spray sealer, which looks very cool! I love your projects and subscribe.
Hi Carla! I’m checking on this with my ads provider. I have no idea what is going on. Thank you for your patience!
I have a few pieces of unfinished wood that I would like to make into decorative serving trays for sushi. Is there a style of ModPodge that you would recommend for my project?
Hi Maggie! If it’s a tray you’d like to wash, then Dishwasher Safe. You’ll want to use it underneath the glass (assuming it’s a glass tray).
Amy, I would like to make a book for my grandson with pictures and names of our family. I plan on using scrapbooking papers and I want to put the papers on an already made child’s book where the pages are glossy. Any hints to get the papers to stick to the pages of the book and stay there.
Thanks Tonya
Hi Tonya! I think Mod Podge would work on glossy pages. However, you could also use a strong glue stick and be fine. It doesn’t sound like you are decoupaging as much as simply gluing the images!
What Mod Podge do I use to put pictures on a terra cotta flower pot?
You can use Mod Podge Gloss, Satin, or Matte! https://modpodgerocksblog.com/diy-flower-pot-with-photos/
Can mod podge be used for diamond paintings and which one would you recommend?
Hi Debbie! It can . . . everyone is recommending the Super Gloss for Diamond paintings.
I have a question so I have an acrylic painting on canvas is okay if I can use mod podge for glossy touch? Can we use mod podge on canvans?
Hi Kim! Yes, Mod Podge works with acrylic paint.
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?
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.
Can you use the gloss mod podge to transfer photos onto a wood surface
Yes! You can do an inkjet transfer: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/inkjet-photo-transfer-to-wood/
I’ve
Mod podg some rocks that I have found whats my next step after that
You should use a waterproof sealer if you live in a place with a lot of rain! Otherwise, you’re good!
Hi! Do you have any recommendations for a smooth gloss finish? I can’t seem to not have strokes show.
Thanks! 😊
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.”
Hi Can you tell me if there is any mod Podge I can use over a latex prop?
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.
Hi Amy! 👋 I happened to stumble across your blog while searching “mod podge matte” I absolutely love it..all the information and so many ideas and projects! I have numerous questions but I’ll stick with my original one before I started searching. Am I able to use mod podge matte or gloss to transfer online images printed on basic printing paper from my regular Epson printer onto cardboard by any chance? Sill question probably, but looking for quick and easy DIYs to do with my 5 yr old when she comes to.me out of nowhere asking to do a craft. And we always have amazon boxes around. Thanks for providing this free blog to us!
Your amazing,
MANDI
Hi Mandi! You’ll want to look at this post: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/decoupage-onto-wood/
You’ll do the same thing with cardboard 🙂
Note: Mod Podge on cardboard can be super wrinkly so you’ll want to smooth thoroughly with a roller. Just practice and you will see what I mean!
I’m making placemats with iron on vinyl transfers, wondering about mod page to protect the vinyl and if it will be stick with hot coffee mug or plates
Hi Lorenzo! Mod Podge isn’t meant to be used with vinyl. I suggest using permanent vinyl and it shouldn’t be a problem with the heat!
When doing glass bottles, can I use Tye-Dye in lieu of food coloring?
On either how much do I use? Coloring? Mod-Podge?
Also have been told to add a teaspoon of water, but that was the only measurement given.
This is how I found you, I need help.
And I believe I have came to the right place.
PLEASE and Thank You!
This post will help: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/how-to-color-glass/
Tie dye is meant to work with fabric – I have no idea if it will work with glass. You could try it!
I like the craft with Modpodge on and/or in glass jars but with preschoolers, can you use Modpodge on plastic jars?
I’m using gloss (painting it on with a brush,) and looked everywhere to see if it’s safe to breathe vapors, (have no ventilation).