Polycrylic is a water-based wood coating used to treat wooden furniture and accessories around the home.
It preserves any type of wood against moisture, heat, scuffs and UV fade.
I will answer all your recent questions about Polycrylic and why it’s such an important part of protecting your indoor wooden objects.
TOP TIP: I use Polycrylic on natural wood pieces because it brings out the natural grain of the wood. Polycrylic offers a protective coating suitable for internal use.
Cabinet makers are common users of Polycrylic because it’s water-based and does not emit vapours.
Plus it protects both hardwood and softwood furniture pieces and cabinets.
Polycrylic is a clear solution that acts as a protective layer, it comes in a matt and silk finish.
- Polycrylic is created for the protection of wood
- It’s water-based so no powerful vapours or bad smell
- Protects against UV/sunlight fade
- Preserves and protects new/old wooden objects
- Can be sprayed or brushed
- Good for Ash, Birch and Maple pieces
Examples Of Using Polycrylic
It seems some readers are mixing Polycrylic with oils, stains and varnishes. It does not offer any colour but a protective coating or finish.
You can varnish or oil a piece of furniture and then use Polycrylic to help seal and protect.
Another option is to use it straight onto new or old wood, this will bring out the natural grain and leave various finishes such as silk or matt.
- Use straight on a wooden cabinet, furniture or wooden ornament
- Can be used over varnish, acrylics and other paints
- Comes in a variety of finishes
- There is no colour to Polycrylic only clear
Tips When Applying Polycrylic
Here are some tips when applying your Polycrylic to your wooden objects
- Always lightly sand new wood with fine 220 grit sandpaper
- Remove any grease or stains with sandpaper
- Do not use a de-greaser before applying
- Allow 24hrs drying time before applying Polycrlic to other paints
- When using a paintbrush always brush with the grain
- Lightly sand the first coat of Polycrlic before applying the second coat
- Wait about 30 minutes before applying the final coat
Where Should I Apply Polycrylic?
If you are using Polycrylic in-doors make sure you are in a ventilated area although the vapours are not severe.
Users of Polycrylic might still become overwhelmed indoors, so be sure to open a window or door.
Failing this take your object outside and spread some newspaper over the floor and paint or spray your piece outside.
For health and safety, you should take precautions with
- Spray in a ventilated room
- Be sure to wear protective equipment
- Cover the floor because it’s sticky
- Will wipe clean with water and soap
How To Apply Polycrylic?
Polycrylic is water-based and works great in a paint sprayer. You can cover a large piece in a matter of minutes with a good paint sprayer because it soaks in quick.
If you are going to brush out your Polycrylic then do not use your best paintbrush because it can break down the bristles.
TOP TIP: You can buy Polycrylic in a spray can, which works the same as a paint sprayer. Keep moving the can and do not go over the same spot twice until dry to avoid runs.
- Perfect for a paint sprayer
- Can be brushed
- Do not use a roller
- Touch dry in around 20 minutes
Polycrylic Or Polyurethane?
Can I Paint Over Wood Stains And Oils?
Yes, you can use Polycrylic over other stains and oils. You can also paint this protective coating over acrylic and oil-based paints.
Some users paint a design or picture onto a wooden board and use Polycrylic to seal the design as a finish/topcoat.
Can I Treat Outdoor Furniture With Polycrylic?
No, you cannot use Polycrylic outside on wooden furniture.
This water-based protective finish has not been created to put up with the changes in temperature, High UV rays, moisture and the elements.
It’s for covering indoor furniture and wooden accessories, it will not stand up to the elements in the garden.