How To: Seal Jesmonite Projects

Jesmonite is a versatile and durable material widely used in crafting and design projects. Whether you’re creating planters, decorative objects, or even candle vessels, sealing your Jesmonite creations is a crucial step to ensure their longevity and appearance. In this blog post, we’ll explore the process of sealing Jesmonite, highlighting the different types of sealers compatible with Jesmonite AC100 and AC730, and providing you with instructions to achieve the best results.

First, Understanding Jesmonite and Its Sealers – Jesmonite is a composite material that consists of a gypsum-base and an acrylic resin. It’s popular for its strength, lightweight properties, and versatility. However, like most other materials, Jesmonite requires proper sealing to protect it from moisture, staining, and wear.

The type of sealer you choose will depend on the specific type of Jesmonite you’re using:

Jesmonite AC100: Compatible with Jesmonite Acrylic Sealer and Jesmonite Gloss Sealer.
Jesmonite AC730: Compatible with Flexiguard Sealer.
Wax Sealers: Suitable for both Jesmonite AC100 and AC730 when used for decorative pieces.

For projects such as candle vessels, it’s highly recommended to use a proper Jesmonite sealer to ensure optimal protection and durability.

So, how do you seal a Jesmonite piece to achieve maximum result?

1. Gather Your Materials: Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials:

(Either) Jesmonite AC100 or AC730 creations
Appropriate Sealer for your Jesmonite project type
Soft brush or sponge
Clean, lint-free cloth/ micro-fibre cloth
Water (for diluting the Gloss Sealer)
Wax (if using for decorative pieces)

2. Prepare Your Workspace: Set up a clean, dust-free workspace with good ventilation. Lay down protective sheets or newspaper to catch any drips and spills. Make sure your Jesmonite creations are clean, dust-free and dry before applying any sealers.

3. Apply the First Coat of Sealer: For Jesmonite AC100 using Acrylic Sealer or Gloss Sealer:

• Acrylic Sealer: Apply the Acrylic Sealer evenly using a soft brush or sponge. Make sure to cover all surfaces, including any intricate details. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying additional coats.
• Gloss Sealer: Dilute the Gloss Sealer with 10-20% water to achieve the best finish. Apply the diluted sealer using a soft brush or sponge, ensuring an even and smooth coat. Allow the first coat to dry thoroughly before applying subsequent coats.

For Jesmonite AC730 using Flexiguard Sealer: Flexiguard Sealer: Apply the Flexiguard Sealer evenly with a soft brush or sponge. Ensure that all surfaces are covered, paying special attention to any detailed areas. Let the first coat dry completely before proceeding.

4. Apply Additional Coats: To ensure thorough sealing and protection, apply 2-3 coats of sealer. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. This step is crucial for achieving a durable and long-lasting finish. If you find that you have noticeable brush strokes, we recommend giving the coated surface a very light sand between layers of sealer. This will allow for a smoother coat in the next layer.

5. Optional: Apply Wax for Decorative Pieces: If your Jesmonite creation is purely decorative and not subject to frequent handling or exposure to moisture (i.e Bathroom or Kitchen use), you can opt to use a wax sealer. Wax provides a beautiful matte finish and enhances the natural appearance of Jesmonite.

Use a clean, lint-free cloth to apply a thin layer of wax to the surface.
Buff the wax gently in circular motions, until you achieve the desired sheen.
Allow the wax to absorb for a few hours before handling.

6. Allow Proper Curing Time: After applying the final coat of sealer or wax, allow your Jesmonite creation to cure for at least 24-48 hours. This curing period ensures that the sealer fully bonds with the surface, providing optimal protection. If you are creating candle vessels, we highly recommend allowing the vessels to cure until the longer end of the curing time to ensure the best finish.

Bonus Tips for Sealing Jesmonite:

Test on a Small Area: Before applying any sealer to the entire piece, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility and achieve the desired finish. Ideally the bottom surface is a good testing spot.
Avoid Overloading: When applying sealer, avoid overloading the brush or sponge. Apply thin, even coats to prevent drips, streaks, and uneven coverage.
Maintain Consistent Conditions: Work in a controlled environment with consistent temperature and humidity levels. Extreme conditions can affect the curing process and the final finish.
Clean Tools Promptly: Clean your brushes, sponges, and cloths immediately after use to prevent the sealer from hardening and ruining your tools.

For a great reference, visit the Art Tree Creations Facebook Page where they share a video on sealing a Jesmonite AC100 pot with the Jesmonite Gloss Sealer. Watch it here. 

Sealing your Jesmonite creations is a vital step to protect them from wear, moisture, and staining. By choosing the right sealer for your Jesmonite type—whether it’s Acrylic Sealer, Gloss Sealer, or Flexiguard Sealer—you can ensure that your projects maintain their beauty and durability over time. Remember, proper sealing not only enhances the appearance of your creations but also extends their lifespan, allowing you to enjoy your artistic endeavours for years to come. Happy Crafting!