I have been asked many times
- What is “Gel Medium”
- Why do you use it?
- Is it the same as Modge?
Today I am gong to either clear things up, or muddy the waters further. My intentions are to clear things up and then let you decide which product you want to use on your projects.
I will first like to tell you that this may seem a little one side and you are right. I used Modge Podge back in the 70’s and have used it a few times in recent years, but that is all.
Modge Podge was brought on the market in the 60’s and quickly grew to be a staple product in the crafters home. It is an all in one glue and sealer. It can adhere paper, fabric and other porous materials to almost any surface and it dries clear. It provides a smooth, durable finish and it is fast drying. If you have small children it may be good to know that Modge Podge is non toxic and cleans up with just soap and water.
Since it’s debut in the 60’s Modge Podge has come a long way and has developed 12 different formulas to work on all of your different projects.
- Classic Mod Podge
The original Mod Podge formula that’s a glue, sealer and finish all in one! - Hardcoat Mod Podge
The ultimate durable finish! - Satin Finish Mod Podge The same great performance and versatility of original Mod Podge in a Satin finish.
- Brushstroke Mod Podge Enhance projects with a textured finish!
- Fabric Mod Podge
Embellish wearables, linens and home décor like never before! - Paper Mod Podge
An acid-free formula that is friendly to paper crafting! - Outdoor Mod Podge
Protect your projects from moisture and other outdoor elements with Outdoor Mod Podge. - Sparkle Mod Podge , Puzzle Saver Mod Podge, Modge Podge Glitter, Modge Podge Shimmer, Glow-in-the-Dark Mod Podge,
My experience is only with the original Modge Podge and Modge Podge Satin. Neither of these products are acid free which is a concern to me and both leave a sticky residue, especially when it is humid. I have researched this and if you want to remove the “sticky” or “tackiness” then a use a spray fixative either in matte or gloss and let it dry for about 24 hours and that should do it.
Now let’s move on to Gels, which is what you all want to know about anyway, right?
What is a Gel?
Gels are like a colorless paint and are composed of 100% acrylic polymers.
- They make great adhesives
- are UV resistant
- very flexible
- non yellowing
- have long term durability
- are permanent
- are water resistant
Gels range in consistency from pourable to moldable and vary from sheen to transparent. Some specialty gels also contain pumice, glass or acrylic granules that impart unique reflective, rough or absorbent surface qualities which can provide a lot of interest to your project.
While recording this video I experience many “technical difficulties” and so I just finally gave up and published it anyway. Please forgive that irritating background noise that appears half way through and anything else I may have overlooked.
So, did I clear things up or muddy the waters for you?
I really hope I cleared things up for ya!
Great tutorial! I have never worked with the gels, so I will have to give them a try! :)
ReplyDeleteGreat tutorial and so glad you shared the links. I have not heard of these before you talked about them.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comparison also.
This is fantastic! I have always wondered what the difference was - now I know! I feel like you should have that nbc - The more you know logo at the end of that! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the follow! I am now following you back!
ReplyDeleteVery intriguing, Tammy! I'm loving the bead gel. I have a question about the matte gel... The main problem I have when using Mod Podge is when I'm using it to seal paper. I have a hard time getting a smooth finish (I see the brush strokes). How does the matte gel compare? Can you see the brush strokes after sealing your paper?
ReplyDeleteGeez I thought I left a comment...I'm kind of slow.
ReplyDeleteI found you through Frugal Creativity's site. I am now a follower through GFC. Great blog! I love crafts, even though I suck at it!
Thanks for following me!! Also, I really appreciate the tutorial. I've been wondering about these (after seeing your egg project), and am also wondering if you get the wrinkling of paper that happens with Mod Podge?? Can you buy this locally, like at Michaels, or do you order from their site?
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Yes, I needed that...I just experiment most of the time...yikes! But it is good to know the differences. I just bought some omni gel (?)
ReplyDeleteThank you Tammy! I am going to get some of the medium gel...it looks easier to use than Modge Podge since it's kind of a thicker consistency.
ReplyDeleteGreat tutorial! I have some of both but couldn't remember what I bought the gel for! I'm usingit the gel right now to adhere paper to a piece of plywood...Then I'm going to use modge podge (spray) to seal it as I don't want any texture at all:) both are great products:)
ReplyDelete