Crackle varnishes and mediums

What are crackling mediums?

Crackle mediums, also known as crackles, are special products for creating decorative cracks and the effect of a naturally aged surface. They are especially popular in decoupage, vintage decorations, and projects where the look of old, cracked paint or varnish is desired.

According to the way they work, crackle mediums are mainly divided into single-phase and two-phase. The two types create different effects and are used at different stages of the decoration.

What is the difference between single-phase and two-phase crackle?

Single-phase cracking medium

The single-phase medium is used to crack the acrylic paint that is applied over it. After preparing the base, the crackle medium is applied and allowed to dry according to the product's instructions. Then a layer of acrylic paint is applied, which gradually begins to crack and the color of the lower layer is visible through the cracks formed.

This type of crackle is suitable when you want to get the effect of old, cracked paint on furniture, boxes, frames and other decorative objects.

Two-phase cracking medium

The two-phase crackle medium is used as a finishing decorative effect on an already finished drawing, decoupage or other decoration. After the sequential application of the two steps, transparent cracks are formed that resemble cracked old coating or glass.

To make the cracks that have formed more clearly visible, they can be highlighted with a suitable antique paste or other patination product.

How to choose the right crackle?

The choice depends mostly on what end result you want to achieve:

• choose a single-phase medium if you want the acrylic paint layer itself to crack;
• choose a two-phase medium if you want transparent cracks on the already finished decoration;
• For finer and more delicate projects, you can use a product designed for a finer crackle effect.

What surfaces can they be used on?

Depending on the specific product, cracking mediums can be used on previously prepared and decorated surfaces of:

• tree;
• MDF;
• glass;
• ceramics;
• canvas;
• other suitably primed or painted substrates.

Helpful tip

When working with crackle mediums, follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying times exactly. The thickness of the applied layer and the method of application can affect the size and type of cracks that result.