I run a Mod Podge blog and get asked all the time, “Is Mod Podge waterproof?” Find the answer here, with more details (and solutions).
Hello! If you’re joining me to get the quick answer to the question “Is Mod Podge waterproof?” then I’d like to let you know right away: NO.
Of course there is a more detailed answer, but I figured that some of you will want to know immediately and run, so there it is.
If you’d like to stick around to find out more details – and get some solutions to making Mod Podge waterproof – then I’m here for you.
One of the most common questions I get on this blog from readers is, “Is Mod Podge waterproof for coasters?”
Typically someone might be making coasters for a gift and are interested in how to make the coasters waterproof as well as heat resistant.
Which would be expected since coasters are exposed to water from glasses as well as extreme heat from hot beverages.
There are many other projects that crafters are interested in making waterproof (besides coasters) such as placemats, garden items or anything that might be outside on a porch or patio, and cups.
Kids’ tables and dressers are another common theme based on the fact that kids can be rough on stuff and also so many spills.
So now let’s answer the question you’re all wondering in more detail: Is Mod Podge waterproof?
Is Mod Podge Waterproof?
As I said before, no, Mod Podge is not waterproof. The longer answer has to do with the makeup of the product.
Mod Podge is a craft supply made up of several ingredients, including vinyl acetate. The combination produces a product that is somewhat water resistant, but not waterproof.
If a few drops of water end up on your Mod Podge project you can wipe them away with ease. You aren’t going to ruin your craft with just a little bit of water.
The issue is when something that is Mod Podged is exposed to a lot of water. The product is not “built” for submerging or exposure to water over a long period of time (and consistently).
For example, you wouldn’t want to put something only sealed with Mod Podge in your shower. This is true for Mod Podge as well as all other decoupage mediums.
Note: if water is on your Mod Podge project for an extended period of time, you might notice some clouding.
Typically when you remove the water the Mod Podge will slowly dry to clear again. However, you might see some permanent cloudiness and/or rings.
What about Outdoor Mod Podge?
You can learn more about Mod Podge Outdoor here. As I mention in that article, Mod Podge Outdoor is not waterproof. It is HIGHLY water resistant (more so than regular Podge).
This means that if you want a decoupage item to sit on a covered porch where it is not exposed to weather 24 hours a day, you are fine using this formula by itself.
HOWEVER – if you live in Seattle (for example) and your project is constantly rained on, or you live in Arizona and the sun is beating down on your craft all the time, I suggest another sealer that is waterproof and/or UV resistant on top.
What about Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge?
You can learn more about Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge here. It is very highly water resistant (top rack, dishwasher safe) but even that formula isn’t completely waterproof.
This version of Mod Podge is highly durable, and perfect for using with mugs or placemats or something that will be exposed to water but not for a long period of time.
People make glitter mugs all the time with this medium and they last for a long time after repeated dishwasher runs.
Is Mod Podge permanent (since it isn’t waterproof)?
Technically, no. BUT if you Mod Podge a piece of paper to wood, it’s not going to come off without some serious work (learn how to remove Mod Podge).
You’d have to peel the paper off, or sand it off, or leave water on it for an extended period of time (which would probably end up ruining the wood too!). Mod Podge comes off of glass more easily than other surfaces, and soaking typically works to remove it.
For my purposes, and in my crafts, Mod Podge is pretty permanent. I’ve seen 50 year old projects from the creator of Mod Podge (Jan Wetstone) that are still going strong.
So while I can’t *technically* say the product is permanent, you’re going to have a hard time removing it.
Do you need to seal Mod Podge?
No, you do not need to seal Mod Podge. It is a glue, sealer, and finish all in one. The Mod Podge Hard Coat in particular has very tough properties that make it suitable for sealing furniture.
However, sometimes you need to break out the big guns and you want to make a project relatively waterproof!
For those times, I recommend a product like Thompson’s WaterSeal painted right over the top, after your decoupage project is completely dry.
This doesn’t mean you’ll be able to submerge your project (I don’t recommend ever submerging a decoupage craft), but it will be pretty close to waterproof in terms of be exposed to rain or other water on a regular basis.
And while we’re on the topic of sealing, let’s get back to coasters.
You can use something like Thompson’s WaterSeal on coasters and it will be fine for most applications. Thompson’s and Minwax Polycrylic are commonly used by Etsy sellers who sell coasters.
The only issue is if your item is going to be exposed to extreme heat (like a trivet would be). Then you’ll likely want to use a resin. Learn about Dimensional Magic vs resin here.
SO – to sum it all up. Is Mod Podge waterproof? No. But it’s highly water resistant and if you’re looking for a tough decoupage medium, it’s the one for you! Let me know your thoughts and questions in the comments!
Thank you very informative!! Modge podge is one of my favorite things to use on my crafts.
Don’t use it in Terracotta pots if you plan on leaving them outdoors it’ll soak up the paper the bubble. I use Thompson Water seal over it better protection.
Super helpful, thank you. Question: I’ve had trouble in the past with waterproof sealers turning yellowish over time. Does Thompson’s WaterSeal remain clear? Thanks!
This is wonderfully concise. Consequently, I think I’ll remember what to look for when creativity strikes. Thank you,
Janet
Like how you mentioned my cousin (Jan Wetstone) in your post. Brings back memory that she created Mod Podge.
Hi Karen! I got to meet Jan once and she was such a lovely woman! https://modpodgerocksblog.com/mod-podge-day-celebrating-45th/ One of my great memories of running this blog. I will forever be grateful to your cousin for her amazing invention and her legacy will always live on with me. I mention her in all of my intro videos too – just did a Facebook Live recently and talked about her. So glad I got to meet her before she passed; I’ll never forget it. xo
Thanks. Very informative and easy to understand. Thanks a million.
Hi
Thanks for this very informative article! I’m wondering if you can help me with an unusual situation. We run a non- profit Kids club, and because of corona it is now over zoom. We spend hours individually packaging all the supplies for each child, so they can do the craft together with the group, but each in their own home. I was really hoping to make coasters with them, as it fits the theme of this session. I’m wondering what you think about using modge podge hard coat or modge podge outdoor, to seal the coaster. I know you wrote lots of ideas in the article, but the sealant needs to be easy, quick, and kid friendly (which kind of rules out any kind of spray bottle, etc, as i can’t package that for each of them, and most of that stuff can’t be used by an 8 year old! Also, the dishwasher safe modge podge won’t work, as i can’t ask them to wait to wait so long before using, etc.) I don’t need the coaster to last for years, just don’t want the design to get ruined if some coffee spills on it! Another part of my question is, i had 2 ideas of how to design the coaster, and i’m wondering if you think either of them would be better , or would not work at all, with modge podge. a) to color the tile with sharpies and then spray with alcohol so that the colors mix and look really cool b) modge podge and then sprinkle with confetti .
Thank you do much for your help with this! I really appreciate it!
I’d do the Hard Coat! You can also put a little piece of paper in there with the suggestion that they can seal it for added strength with a brush on or clear acrylic spray sealer (some might have it on hand!). Otherwise, just do Hard Coat, and I like the confetti idea. During the Zoom you can also show people how to make their own confetti with tissue paper, even though you’ll be providing it. Just in case they want to customize or do something similar later! That’s my two cents 🙂
Do you have any recommendations on how to waterproof styrofoam?
That is a great question! Honestly I would ask a marine shop. You could call them. I bet they have experience with that, and they might have the proper chemicals/sealants for it. There aren’t any Mod Podges that would work for it as far as I know.
I didn’t see anything mentioned about using Mod Podge Super Hi-Shine clear acrylic sealer for a final coat, like 3 coats. I using Mod Podge for a coffee cup project. If this doesn’t work, I’ll go with the clear Engine Enamel. Thanks! Loved your DYI!
I’m making photo coasters on ceramic tiles. So far they have 4 coats of mod podge on them. I need something to seal them that will make them as water resistant as possible (and hopefully heat resistant). I see several things recommended in this article. Which one do you believe would be the best to use? I’m giving some as gifts so I want them to turn out well. I’m not very crafty. Thanks for the info!
Hi Erin! Engine Enamel. Spray, make sure it’s clear. That is your best bet! Do a test spray before you hit the coasters to get used to application, do several light coats. Because Engine Enamel is made for engines, it’s actually perfect for both cold and heat!!