Are you curious what the Mod Podge finishes look like when they are dry? Scroll down for a handy dandy guide! Very informative. Also get a video about the formulas at the end of the post.
I get A LOT of questions about using Mod Podge as a finish (learn to Mod Podge here!). After all, you can decoupage with it, but after you are done, you can use it as a finish!
But how are the Mod Podge finishes going to look at the end of your project? Will they be shiny or what? That is one of the most common questions I get!
This visual guide is going to show you how each Mod Podge formula looks after you paint it onto your project and let it dry. I used a regular, soft bristle paint brush on paper.
In addition to viewing my samples, you should also:
Visit my Mod Podge formula guide to get learn more about these and additional Mod Podge formulas. If you click on the names of the formulas below you’ll get more details (including projects) as well.
To reduce brushstrokes from any of these formulas, 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 wood 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.
Mod Podge Finishes
You can see what each of the Mod Podge formulas look like when they are dry below! I painted them on a gray piece of paper, so the point is to show you the light reflecting properties.
Mod Podge Gloss – Shiny, glossy finish. This was the first Mod Podge formula.
Mod Podge Matte – Flat finish with minimal shine
Mod Podge Hard Coat – Satin finish: somewhere in between a Gloss and a Matte (slightly shiny).
Outdoor Mod Podge – Shiny finish: even shinier than original Gloss
Fabric Mod Podge – Shiny finish: very similar to Outdoor
Antique Matte Mod Podge – Flat like regular matte, just with a brown tint
Mod Podge Glow in the Dark – Shiny finish that glows in the dark when charged with light
Extreme Glitter Mod Podge – very sparkly! Tons of glitter. Even more than Sparkle Mod Podge
Mod Podge Super Gloss – HIGH gloss finish. This formula is a finish only – don’t use it to decoupage items down to surfaces. Technically you can, but this is a more expensive formula that provides a self leveling finish.
Brushstroke Mod Podge – designed for adding texture to a decoupaged surface
Are you ready to see a video about the Mod Podge formulas? My friends Cathie and Steve will guide you. Press “PLAY” below.
Also, I’d love it if you would pin this graphic below!
Thanks for reading and let me know if you have any questions in the comments.
Hi! I recently created a dog food container from a galvanized metal bucket. I have a decal to apply. I was wondering if mod podge could be applied as a coating over the entire bin and then seal it with a metal sealer.
Hi Tiffany! You would only use Mod Podge if the decal is non-adhesive. You don’t need to use Mod Podge if you’re simply adhering the decal; the other sealer should be enough.
I noticed that my favorite Mod Podge finish was not included in your comparison. The satin finish which I believe has a softer sheen.
Hi Shana! The Hard Coat has a Satin finish – so you can use that! I need to add a note, thank you!
How do you prevent mod podge from yellowing
Hi Dana! Mod Podge doesn’t really yellow in my experience. However the Paper Mod Podge is archival, so you can purchase that if you need it for a specifical purpose! It the least yellow-y. 🙂
Which Modge Podge is dishwasher safe? Does it say it on the bottle? What color is the label. Would like to decoupage plate and be able to wash it. Thanks
It’s a blue label and yes it says! Here’s a pic and more info: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/dishwasher-safe-mod-podge/
btw, they will be framed, but I haven’t decided if they will be covered
I would check out this post: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/how-to-use-puzzle-glue/ It answers your questions! I like Satin better than Gloss personally, for puzzles.
I want to modpodge a couple of puzzles. would you suggest satin or gloss? also, would you still sand or simply apply with a light hand?
Were these done using a foam brush or bristled paint brush? And would you ever do a comparison post showing that?
They were done using a soft bristled paint brush which is what I use regularly. Are you looking for something specific, maybe I can help? Send me an email!
Can I use ModPodge to keep glitter from coming off of a dance costume? The material is polyester and Lycra. I have the orange can spray type.
Hi Judy – that’s just a clear acrylic sealer, not a glue. Clear acrylic sealers can definitely help keep the glitter from coming off. It’s not 100%, to keep it on really good would be to use the brush on kind but that would dull the glitter. So there’s a trade off!
Hello Amy
Thank you so much for the wonderful work you do. I would like to know how you decoupage in gold. Much appreciated Lily
Hi Lily! You may want to use gilding instead of Mod Podge – it really depends on what you are doing. Send me an email and I’ll try to help!
I would like to know how to tranfer my mother paper receips to a dish towel
Hi Tura! This tutorial should help you: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/diy-christmas-napkins/