Folkart Dragonfly Glaze

Transforming Surfaces with Magical Iridescence

Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is an amazing acrylic paint that creates a dazzling iridescent finish on a variety of surfaces. This unique water-based paint contains mica powder, resulting in a glorious shimmering effect reminiscent of dragonfly wings. With its versatility and ease of use, Folkart Dragonfly Glaze has become a popular choice among crafters, DIYers and artists looking to add some magic to their projects.

But with so many colors and techniques to choose from, buying and using this brilliant glaze for the first time can be confusing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before bringing home these shimmering paints, from practical tips on application and removal to creative ways to use Folkart Dragonfly Glaze for stunning results.

What is Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Used For?

The essential thing to know about Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is that it was created primarily for adding a luminous, opalescent finish on crafts and home décor pieces. The paint is concentrated with mica powder, allowing it to refract light for a striking, multi-dimensional effect.

More specifically, Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is ideal for:

• Painting and antiquing furniture – The glaze can completely transform old, worn furniture with a lively new finish. It also pairs perfectly with distressing and antiquing techniques.
• Craft projects – Use it on crafts like picture frames, vases, candles, jewelry and more. Folkart Dragonfly Glaze takes crafts from mundane to magical.
• Canvas art – Add striking depth and texture to painted canvases with a coat of glaze. The colors seem to glow from within.
• Home décor – Use Folkart Dragonfly Glaze on accent pieces around the home, like flower pots, figurines, signs, ceramics and other décor items.
• Holiday crafts – Ornament balls, holiday decorations and handmade gifts really stand out with a helping of shimmery glaze.

The possibilities are endless! Folkart Dragonfly Glaze can add a touch of magic and radiance to all types of craft, art and décor projects.

How to Apply Folkart Dragonfly Glaze

Applying this luminous paint is part of the fun. Folkart Dragonfly Glaze goes on easily with a few simple techniques:

Supplies Needed

• Folkart Dragonfly Glaze paint
• Paintbrushes (soft bristle recommended)
• Paint palette, pan or plate
• Cup of water
• Paper towels or rags
• Gloves and protective covering (optional)

Prepping the Surface

• Ensure the surface is clean and dry before painting on the glaze
• For extra adherence on slick or non-porous surfaces, add a coat of acrylic sealer first

Technique

• Stir or shake the glaze well – the mica powder settles, so blend it back in
• Apply in thin, even coats – let layers dry between applications
• Use soft bristle brushes – they help smooth the glaze nicely
• Work quickly – the glaze dries fast, so don’t overbrush areas
• Layer colors – mix hues by applying coats of different glazes

The glaze maintains its luminosity best when not overmixed. With a light hand and thin coats, you can achieve stunning results!

Tip: Add a few drops of water to the glaze if needed for a smoother consistency. Don’t overthin the paint.

Where to Buy Folkart Dragonfly Glaze

The good news is that Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is accessible and easy to find at major retailers. Here are some of the best places to buy it:

• Online – Amazon, Walmart.com, Michaels.com, JOANN.com and other online stores carry the full range of Folkart Dragonfly Glaze colors. Shopping online gives you the widest selection.
• Craft Stores – Check the paint aisles at stores like Michaels, JOANN Fabrics, Hobby Lobby or Ace Hardware. They typically stock the most popular colors in the glaze line.
• Art Supply Stores – Stores like Blick Art Materials or Jerry’s Artarama have the glaze available for artists and crafters.
• Home Improvement Stores – Stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s may have select colors in stock during key DIY seasons.

For the best price, selection and convenience, buying Folkart Dragonfly Glaze online is the way to go. Be sure to seek out sales, coupons and deals to save on your purchase.

Is Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Waterproof?

One of the great qualities of Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is that it becomes water-resistant once fully cured. The mica powder allows the paint to resist water better than regular acrylics.

However, it’s important to note that the glaze is not 100% waterproof – it still can be vulnerable to damage from prolonged water exposure. Here are some useful waterproofing tips:

• Allow the glaze to cure at least 3-5 days before exposing to water. This gives it time to fully harden.
• Avoid soaking pieces painted with the glaze. It can withstand light splashes or brief contact with water once cured, but should not be submerged.
• Re-coat pieces annually if they will come into regular contact with water, like outdoor décor. This helps maintain the water-resistant barrier.
• Seal the finished piece with an acrylic sealer like polyurethane for added water protection, especially for outdoor projects.

With proper curing time and occasional re-coating, items painted with Folkart Dragonfly Glaze will hold up well to average indoor exposure to water and humidity. But prolonged soaking or submersion may compromise the paint over time.

How Long Does Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Take to Dry?

One of the advantages of Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is that it dries quickly compared to many other acrylic paint types.

Here is an overview of the drying timeline:

• Touch dry: approximately 20-30 minutes
• Dry to handle/recoat: about 1-2 hours
• Fully cured: around 3-5 days

The glaze dries quickly enough for multiple coats in one sitting. However, it’s best to allow a few hours of drying time between coats – this prevents overmixing the mica powder layers.

Proper curing also ensures the paint reaches maximum durability and water resistance. Avoid washing or submerging projects painted with the glaze until the full curing time of 3-5 days has passed.

The drying time may be a bit longer on non-porous surfaces. Adding a base coat of gesso or acrylic sealer can help speed up drying on surfaces like glass, metal or plastic.

Overall, the relatively fast drying time is ideal for working efficiently and cutting down on wait time between steps in a project.

Can You Use Folkart Dragonfly Glaze on Fabric?

Dragonfly Glaze adds spectacular shimmer and color on fabric projects like textile art, apparel embellishments and DIY throw pillows. However, it’s important to prepare and seal fabric properly for the best, long-lasting results.

Here are some fabric painting tips when working with Folkart Dragonfly Glaze:

• Use acrylic textile medium – To improve adhesion, mix a few drops of textile medium into the glaze before painting fabric.
• Heat set the fabric – Once painted, heat set the fabric by ironing on medium heat for a few minutes. This helps bond the glaze to the fibers.
• Allow adequate curing time before washing – Give the glaze 3-5 days to fully cure before laundering the fabric. Wash gently by hand at first.
• Seal with an acrylic finisher – For maximum washability, coat the finished piece with an acrylic sealer or fabric medium.
• Avoid flexible fabrics – The glaze may crack on very stretchy fabrics when flexed. Use on stable wovens like cotton canvas.

With proper preparation, Folkart Dragonfly Glaze makes a fantastic shimmery fabric paint. It opens up gorgeous possibilities for wearing and displaying fiber artworks!

Do You Need to Seal Folkart Dragonfly Glaze?

Sealing Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is highly recommended for enhanced protection and durability. While the glaze cures to a water-resistant finish on its own, a sealant provides added benefits:

More waterproof – Extra coats of sealer create a stronger moisture barrier, which is great for outdoor projects or items that will get frequent handling and washing.

Prevents flaking/chipping – Over time, the glaze may chip or flake off exposed edges without a protective top coat. Sealer helps prevent wear and tear.

Holds up to sun exposure – Sealant protects the vibrant glaze colors from fading in sunlight.

Easier to clean – Sealed pieces can be cleaned without risk of removing the glaze paint underneath.

Enhances sheen – The right sealer adds lustrous shine on top of the shimmery glaze.

Any standard acrylic sealant designed for crafts or art is suitable, such as acrylic spray, brush-on sealant or polyurethane. Apply 1-2 thin, even coats for best results, allowing full drying time between coats.

What Colors are Available in Folkart Dragonfly Glaze?

One of the most exciting parts about working with Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is choosing from the 80+ vibrant glaze colors available.

From bright primaries to earthy neutrals, soft pastels to bold jewel tones, the palette offers endless options for mixing and matching. Popular colors include:

• Primary hues – Crimson Red, Sun Yellow, Cobalt Blue
• Shimmers – Gilded Gold, Silver Shimmer, Copper Fire
• Jewel tones – Sapphire, Amethyst, Emerald, Topaz
• Pastels – Blush, Lavender Mist, Aquamarine
• Neutrals – Cosmic Copper, Tarnished Silver, Rustic Bronze
• Neons – Dragon Fruit, Lime Twist, Electric Blue
• Metallics – Pewter, Metallic Gold, Metallic Silver

The color lineup has versatile shades for any project. Best of all, the glazes can be blended together to create custom colors.

Browse the full Folkart Dragonfly Glaze color selection online or in stores to get inspired for your next craft. The tough part is narrowing down your favorites!

How to Remove Folkart Dragonfly Glaze from Surfaces

While Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is designed to permanently transform surfaces, you may need to remove it if you make a mistake or change your mind on a project. Here are some simple ways to take off the glaze:

Unpainted surfaces – Wipe off wet glaze immediately with a damp cloth or paper towels. Once dry, use soap and water or acetone to remove.

Sealed surfaces – The glaze bonds permanently when sealed. Lightly sand the surface to rough up finish, then repaint.

Porous surfaces – On materials like raw wood, stucco or terra cotta, remove glaze with acetone or paint stripper gel. Recondition the surface after stripping.

Non-porous surfaces – For glass, metal or plastic, scrape off any thick paint globs. Use acetone or alcohol to remove residue.

Fabric – Act quickly while glaze is wet to soak fabric in warm soapy water. Once set, re-paint fabric or spot treat stain as needed.

Always test products first in an inconspicuous area. Remove all residue and recondition the surface after stripping to ensure proper adhesion of new paint. With the right tools and techniques, you can successfully erase any glaze mistakes!

Is Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Safe for Kids?

Good news – Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is considered non-toxic and safe for kids’ craft projects! The water-based glaze is free of scary chemicals, making it ideal for family-friendly DIY activities.

Here are some key reasons Folkart Dragonfly Glaze can be safely enjoyed by children:

• Child-safe formula – It’s AP certified non-toxic and contains no VOCs or solvents.
• Water-based acrylic – The glaze has an aqueous base, so fumes are low odor and minimal.
• Washes off skin easily – Spills or drips on hands can be removed with soap and warm water.
• Low-risk if ingested – Always supervise kids during use. But if ingested, the glaze is low toxicity.
• Quick cleanup – The glaze won’t stain surfaces, making cleanup after crafts easier.
• Designed for kids’ crafts – Folkart products are created with kids’ projects in mind.

As with any paint product, basic safety measures are still advised – cover work surfaces, avoid skin contact where possible, rinse spills promptly and avoid ingestion. But overall, Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is a kid-friendly option!

What Surfaces Can You Use Folkart Dragonfly Glaze On?

Folkart Dragonfly Glaze was designed for versatility. It can transform so many surfaces, including:

• Wood – unfinished, stained, painted
• Metal – wrought iron, tin, aluminum, copper
• Glass – stained glass, mirrors, vases
• Canvas – primed artist canvas, tote bags
• Ceramic – bisque, terra cotta, clay pots
• Plastic – paintable resin, laminate
• Plaster – unfinished, painted, faux finish
• Concrete/masonry – painted cement, stucco, slate
• Fabric – natural fibers like cotton, linen, hemp
• Wicker – coated and sealed
• Walls – finished drywall, prop painted walls

The glaze also works wonderfully on crafts like picture frames, ornaments, jewelry, figurines, vases, decorative boxes and much more.

Be sure to prepare slick or non-porous surfaces so the glaze adheres properly. And do test first in an inconspicuous spot to ensure compatibility with each new surface. With a little testing, the possibilities are limitless!

How Does Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Work?

The magnificent iridescent finish of Folkart Dragonfly Glaze comes down to science! Here’s an inside look at what gives this paint its magic:

Mica powder – Finely ground mica is the key ingredient. The shimmer comes from light refracting off tiny flecks of mica.

Translucent glaze – The acrylic base helps scatter reflections. More opaque paints can hide the mica sparkle.

Layered effect – Colors mix optically as coats are layered. Light bounces between the mica particles.

Dries clear – Unlike regular paint, the glaze dries crystal clear so the prismatic mica effect shines through.

Binder adhesion – Acrylic binders help the mica powder adhere evenly when dry for smooth iridescence.

Proper mixing – The mica settles, so stir gently to redistribute without over-blending layers.

The marriage of luminous particles suspended in a clear acrylic base allows Folkart Dragonfly Glaze to deliver its signature pearlescent radiance. It’s the sparkling science behind the magic!

Does Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Need a Primer?

Applying a primer coat is highly recommended before using Folkart Dragonfly Glaze for the most vivid, long-lasting finish. Priming serves a few purposes:

• Promotes adhesion – Primers “tooth” the surface so following coats stick better. This helps prevent chipping or flaking, especially on slick surfaces.
• Evens absorbency – The right primer balances porous and non-porous surfaces for uniform glaze application.
• Block stains – Priming seals grease stains, knots in wood or other imperfections that could bleed through the glaze.
• Enhances vibrancy – Primer coats boost the luminosity of the translucent glaze.
• Extends durability – Adding a primer layer helps the glaze hold up longer to wear, weather and heavy use.

For most surfaces, a standard white acrylic primer formulated for crafts provides an ideal base layer. Allow the primer to fully dry before painting on the Dragonfly Glaze for flawless results!

Can Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Be Used Outdoors?

One of the most frequent questions about Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is whether it can be used outdoors. The answer is yes – when properly sealed, the glaze holds up well outside.

Here are some tips for maximizing durability with outdoor use:

• Seal thoroughly – Protect the glaze with 2-3 coats of high quality acrylic spray sealant. Re-seal yearly.
• Limit direct sun – Prolonged sun exposure can cause fading over time. Position pieces in shaded areas when possible.
• Weatherproof the surface – Use exterior grade paints and primers underneath for added water resistance.
• Avoid pooling water – The glaze can withstand rain and snow if allowed to dry between exposures. Prevent constant soaked conditions.
• Touch up often – Check for any worn spots or flaking edges annually. Spot treat repairs to keep the glaze vibrant.

Folkart Dragonfly Glaze really makes outdoor décor sparkle! Follow these tips and your garden art, patio furniture and outdoor accent pieces will shine.

How to Clean Brushes After Using Folkart Dragonfly Glaze

One of the great things about Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is that it cleans up easily from paintbrushes with a few simple steps:

• Rinse brushes in water – Run brushes under warm water and massage bristles gently to loosen glaze residue.
• Lather with mild soap – Work a small amount of gentle soap like dish soap into the bristles until they are free of all paint. Avoid harsh detergents.
• Rinse again – Rinse thoroughly with clean water, checking for any remaining paint spots in the bristles. Repeat rinse if needed.
• Dry flat or standing up – Shape and dry brushes so water flows down and out of the ferrule.
• Use brush conditioner – For extra smooth bristles, apply a paintbrush conditioner after washing and drying.
• Store properly – Once totally dry, store brushes upright or lying horizontally so bristles don’t get bent.

With the quick cleanup, you can switch glaze colors or reuse brushes in your next project quickly and easily. Proper brush care also helps brushes last through many enchanting paint jobs.

Is Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Non-Toxic?

Safety is often a priority, especially for family crafts and kid projects. The good news is Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is certified non-toxic and safe to use.

Here’s how the glaze achieves its child-safe rating:

• Water-based acrylic formula – It contains no harsh solvents and cleans up with just soap and water.
• No VOCs – The glaze emits negligible fumes, making it low odor.
• AP Seal approved – This independently certified designation guarantees it’s non-toxic.
• No lead or heavy metals – You can rest easy knowing there are no nasty ingredients.
• Minimal ingestion risk – If accidentally swallowed, the glaze is low toxicity.
• Easy cleanup – It won’t permanently stain skin or surfaces, washable with soap and water.

While basic safety precautions should still be taken, Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is formulated to be harmless to users of all ages. Let the creative fun begin, safely!

Can You Mix Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Colors?

One of the best features of Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is that the colors can be blended to create custom iridescent hues. This opens up endless possibilities!

Here are some tips for successfully mixing glaze colors:

• Stir each color before mixing – The mica powder separates, so re-blend before combining colors.
• Add small amounts at a time – Start with a test ratio, adding more as desired. Don’t overmix!
• Layer on paintbrush – Swirl colors together on your palette or brush for vibrant blends.
• Work quickly – The glaze dries fast, so mix and apply glaze mixes rapidly.
• Allow layers to dry – New magic happens when building layers of mixed colors!
• Seal finished pieces – This helps colors stay blended instead of separating over time.

Feel free to get creative with color mixing – there are so many gorgeous combinations waiting to be discovered in these brilliant glazes!

How to Achieve a Smooth Finish with Folkart Dragonfly Glaze

The reflective mica powder particles make applying Folkart Dragonfly Glaze smoothly a little trickier than ordinary paint. Here are some pro tips for getting flawless results:

• Use soft bristle brushes – They help spread the glaze evenly without streaking.
• Keep coats thin – Resist overbrushing, which can push around the mica powder too much.
• Work quickly – The fast drying time means you need to work fast but gently.
• Blend carefully – When mixing colors, stir with care to incorporate glazes without overmixing.
• Maintain wet edges – Avoid lap marks by keeping edges blended into wet glaze. Work in sections.
• Sand rough spots – Once cured, smoothing the glaze with fine grit sandpaper takes out any irregularities.
• Seal the finish – A clear acrylic sealant helps create an ultra-smooth surface shine.

With a delicate touch and the right supplies, you can achieve stunning smooth effects with these shimmering paints!

Does Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Fade Over Time?

One major advantage of Folkart Dragonfly Glaze is that it resists fading very well compared to many other paint types. When properly sealed, the vivid colors will retain their intense hues for years.

Here are some tips to help prevent fading:

• Seal with acrylic finish – A clear topcoat protects pigments from the elements causing fading. Reapply sealant yearly.
• Limit sun exposure – Prolonged direct sun can still break down pigments over time. Keep pieces shaded where possible.
• Gently wash – When cleaning finished pieces, use only mild cleaners and avoid abrasives.
• Avoid thinner coats – Thin or splotchy applications fade quicker. Maintain adequate coating thickness.
• Touch up worn spots – Check for any thin spots or flaking edges annually. Spot treat repairs.
• Store properly – Keep unused glaze bottles away from extreme light, heat or moisture.

With proper care and sealing, the opaque mica pigments retain their colorful brilliance for many years of enjoyment. The dragonfly magic lasts!

How to Store Folkart Dragonfly Glaze Properly

Like all paints, storing Folkart Dragonfly Glaze correctly helps preserve the quality and extend its shelf life. Here are some storage tips:

• Seal bottles tightly – Close lids securely to prevent the glaze drying out in storage.
• Store at room temperature – Avoid hot attics or freezing garages. Heat and cold can damage the glaze.
• Keep bottles upright – Store bottles vertically to prevent spills and keep the mica powder suspended.
• Limit light exposure – Keep glaze in dark cabinets or drawers so the color doesn’t fade over time.
• Clean bottle rims – Wipe rims clean before sealing bottles for an airtight, spill-proof seal.
• Use by expiration date – Glaze should last 1-2 years unopened. Toss bottles that are past expiration.
• Handle gently – Avoid shaking or jostling bottles to prevent separating the ingredients.

Following these simple tips will keep your glaze stash vivid and usable for all your sparkling projects to come!

Unleash Your Creativity with Dazzling Dragonfly Glaze

With its unmatched luminosity, versatility and magical color shifts, it’s easy to see why Folkart Dragonfly Glaze has become a favorite for crafters and artisans. This guide covers all the key techniques for applying the glaze skillfully on a wide range of surfaces, plus creative ways to use the shimmery paint for eye-catching projects.

So grab your paint brushes, choose your colors and get ready to add some prismatic Dragonfly magic to your world! With the right care and know-how, you’ll be creating radiant masterpieces in no time.