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.
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:
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!
Wall Photo Collage
Learn how to make a wall photo collage with Mod Podge! The entire project costs just under $20. This is awesome for home decor or gifts.
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DIY Cell Phone Holder
Learn how to make a cell phone holder out of a lotion bottle, and decorate with Mod Podge and fabric.
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Make a Kitchen Tool Vintage Shadow Box
If you are looking for a good way to display your old kitchen tools, this vintage shadow box with Mod Podge is the perfect decor project.
Get the Tutorial
Inkjet Photo Transfer to Wood
This inkjet photo transfer to wood is easy with Mod Podge and regular school glue. Do it in five simple steps!
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DIY Magnets with a Fun Theme
Make cute magnets using this simple tutorial! This is one of those DIY magnet ideas you're going to love making for every gift giving opportunity.
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Farmhouse Inspired DIY Wall Relief
Make your own farmhouse inspired wall relief with any square of wood and wood shape – just add your favorite papers to personalize!
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Cheap Wall Art from a Dollar Tree Find
Take a “special” piece of artwork from Dollar Tree and turn it into cheap wall art! No one will ever know it was nearly free to make.
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DIY Cake Stand with Dollar Store Supplies
I created this DIY cake stand using a plate from the dollar store and an old candlestick. This is the perfect budget craft idea for a party!
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How to Decorate Your Notebook Cover
Learn how to decorate your notebook with an overlay and Mod Podge. Keep all of your notes and plans inside. So cute!
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DIY Vintage Bottles for Home Decor
Learn how to make DIY vintage bottles for your home decor! You can get the look in minutes with Mod Podge – this shows you how. Great budget friendly craft.
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Personalized Mod Podge Coasters with Photos
Use your favorite photos to make custom Mod Podge coasters – because DIY photo coasters make perfect gifts! These picture coasters are inexpensive and easy to make.
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Split Pea Summer Wreath in Four Easy Steps
If you’re looking for an EASY DIY summer wreath, this is your project! This summer door wreath uses dollar store supplies.
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Vintage Butterfly Magnets
Turn antique metal butterflies into pretty magnets with wallpaper and Mod Podge. Use these easy butterfly decorations in your home decor!
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Decoupage Lampshade with a Vintage Inspired Look
Let Hammer Like a Girl show you how to create a decoupage lampshade with your favorite vintage graphics and patterns. Love the results!
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DIY Alphabet Blocks for Nursery Decor
Make cute DIY alphabet blocks for nursery or room decor! This easy decoupage craft is perfect for a beginner to tackle and is so cute.
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Decorate a Journal
Learn how to decorate a journal cover the easy way with Mod Podge! The whole craft takes less than an hour of active time.
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How to Make Glass Cabochons
Learn how to make cabochons using clear glass gems, printed pictures, and Mod Podge. These are perfect for jewelry projects and so easy.
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Comic Wall Art
Use comic books (or color copies!) and Mod Podge to make this comic book canvas wall art – a great gift for guys or any comic book lover!
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DIY Floor Cloth
Learn how to make a floor cloth using your favorite fabrics and Mod Podge. This is a very durable and inexpensive home decor project.
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DIY Personalized Pencils
Learn how to make custom pencils with pretty paper and Mod Podge! These paper wrapped pencils are a really easy craft.
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Glue Pictures on Canvas
Learn how to glue pictures on canvas with Mod Podge! This is a great project for instant decor.
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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
I would like to know which mod podge will stick to glass. What paint will stick to glass
Nearly all of the Mod Podges stick to glass! And FolkArt Multisurface is my chosen paint for glass. It sticks well. FolkArt Enamel works too 😀
What are your thoughts about sealing chalk paint with matte mod podge?
Hi Glenda! You can do it! But did you know there is an Ultra Matte Chalk Mod Podge? It has that beautiful finish like the wax of a chalk paint. Just a thought 😀
Hi Amy. Wonderful blog, thanks for sharing. I’d like to adhere materials like feathers, etc to leather, maybe using a craft glue base then sealing off with Mod Podge. What are your thoughts?
Hi Alana! I *think* it would work but honestly you’d have to do a test. Mod Podge works with leather, but I like to test everything, even with scraps! You can also ask here to see if people have experience: https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftywithmodpodge/
Can I seal photos with modpodge before using resin
Yes you can! Just make sure to let the Mod Podge dry overnight. You don’t want any remaining moisture because it can cause spotting.
Hi I have painted some things onto slate coasters, I have used modpodge matte to seal it, will this be ok to stand cup of tea etc on
Hi Sophie! For hot mugs you’ll want an additional sealer for high temps. Purchase VHT engine enamel in clear from the auto parts store – Rustoleum also has a high heat product! Be sure to double check and make sure it’s clear because sometimes the cap color is misleading.
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?
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 regard to decoupage projects. Good luck, sounds very cool!
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!
Hi Cheryl! Yes you can. Not a problem at all!
I’m unsure how much to buy. Will be using it for about 32 4×4 tile coasters.
What are your thoughts about painting over matte mat-mate mod podge?
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 🙂
Hello,
Does Mod Podge Matte Mat Mate contain eggs or treennuts?
Also, is it produced in a facility that contains eggs or treenuts?
Thanks,
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