Transform your projects with a brilliant shine using high-gloss paint. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend DIY enthusiast, achieving a flawless, glossy finish requires careful consideration of several factors. This guide will help you navigate the options available, highlighting key features and benefits to aid you in making the best choice for your specific needs.
1. Rust-Oleum 1992502 Painter's Touch
Versatile indoor/outdoor use.
Water-based acrylic formula.
Low odor, chip-resistant.
Covers up to 120 sq ft.
Quick drying time. Use for a variety of indoor and outdoor project surfaces including wood, metal, plaster, masonry or unglazed ceramic Water-based acrylic formula is low odor, resist chips and provides long-lasting protection Covers up to 120 sq ft and dries to touch in 30 minutes for quick project completion Gloss finish provides a fresh new look for surfaces, goes on smoothly and provides excellent hide
Key Features
- Use for a variety of indoor and outdoor project surfaces including wood, metal, plaster, masonry or unglazed ceramic
- Water-based acrylic formula is low odor, resist chips and provides long-lasting protection
- Covers up to 120 sq ft and dries to touch in 30 minutes for quick project completion
- Gloss finish provides a fresh new look for surfaces, goes on smoothly and provides excellent hide
Pros
- Easy to apply
- Low odor
- Good coverage
- Durable
Cons
- May not be suitable for all surfaces
- Requires proper surface preparation
Best for: Indoor and outdoor projects on various surfaces.
Why buy: Provides a durable, glossy finish. Ideal for quick project completion.
2. Liquitex Professional High
Archival quality and permanent.
Non-yellowing and water-resistant.
Non-toxic and lightweight.
Perfect for artwork and delicate items.
Intermixable with Liquitex mediums. Archival; Permanent; Non-Removable; Gloss finish Lightweight, non-toxic; Dries to a non-tacky, hard, flexible surface; Non-yellowing and water-resistant when dry Includes 4-oz / 118ml bottle of medium Intermixable with Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors and Mediums.
Key Features
- Archival; Permanent; Non-Removable; Gloss finish
- Lightweight, non-toxic; Dries to a non-tacky, hard, flexible surface; Non-yellowing and water-resistant when dry
- Includes 4-oz / 118ml bottle of medium
- Intermixable with Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors and Mediums.
Pros
- Archival quality
- Non-yellowing
- Durable
- Non-toxic
Cons
- Small bottle size
- May be expensive
Best for: Preserving artwork and delicate items.
Why buy: Provides lasting protection and a brilliant shine. Ensures your creations remain vibrant for years to come.
3. GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist's Varnish
High gloss finish for artworks.
Protects against yellowing and crazing.
Suitable for various artwork types.
Non-toxic and safe for use.
Affordable and high-quality. Top-Tier Performance: Achieve an unparalleled high gloss finish with this artist-grade varnish. Versatile and Durable: Crafted for both pro artists and hobbyists alike, this varnish is ideal for sealing a wide range of artwork. Enhance and Protect: Perfect for elevating the look of your gold craft paint or acrylic gold artwork. Health-Conscious Crafting: Crafted with your well-being in mind, this non-toxic varnish is the go-to choice for artists prioritizing safety.
Key Features
- Top-Tier Performance: Achieve an unparalleled high gloss finish with this artist-grade varnish.
- Versatile and Durable: Crafted for both pro artists and hobbyists alike, this varnish is ideal for sealing a wide range of artwork.
- Enhance and Protect: Perfect for elevating the look of your gold craft paint or acrylic gold artwork.
- Health-Conscious Crafting: Crafted with your well-being in mind, this non-toxic varnish is the go-to choice for artists prioritizing safety.
Pros
- High-gloss finish
- Durable
- Non-toxic
- Affordable
Cons
- May require multiple coats
- Drying time may vary
Best for: Sealing and protecting artwork.
Why buy: Enhances the vibrancy of your artwork. Provides superior protection against damage.
4. MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for
Professional-grade acrylic varnish.
Permanent high-gloss finish.
Safe formula, no paint damage.
Easy to use and versatile.
Satisfaction guarantee. Professional Acrylic Gloss UV Varnish: MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting seals and protects artworks for longevity, protecting the painting from dust, UV rays and yellowing, and enhancing effects and intensifies the visual impact of final artworks Permanent High Gloss Finish: Our Varnish fastly adds an even layer of shine without visible brush marks and forms a tougher, less permeable and more transparent protective film on paintings, making it look more saturated and richer in color for a long time No Damage to Paint Film: Contains a gentle and safe formula; Once apply, it dries fast and clear to a flexible, non-tacky, hard surface without damaging the paint surface, maintaining the fresh, vibrant look of your creations over time safely Versatile Application & Easy to Use: Transparent protective water-based acrylic varnish for use on most surfaces and the steps to use is really easy; Ideal for diverse artistic projects, such as canvas paintings, DIY endeavors, woodwork, bottle art, etc
Key Features
- Professional Acrylic Gloss UV Varnish: MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting seals and protects artworks for longevity, protecting the painting from dust, UV rays and yellowing, and enhancing effects and intensifies the visual impact of final artworks
- Permanent High Gloss Finish: Our Varnish fastly adds an even layer of shine without visible brush marks and forms a tougher, less permeable and more transparent protective film on paintings, making it look more saturated and richer in color for a long time
- No Damage to Paint Film: Contains a gentle and safe formula; Once apply, it dries fast and clear to a flexible, non-tacky, hard surface without damaging the paint surface, maintaining the fresh, vibrant look of your creations over time safely
- Versatile Application & Easy to Use: Transparent protective water-based acrylic varnish for use on most surfaces and the steps to use is really easy; Ideal for diverse artistic projects, such as canvas paintings, DIY endeavors, woodwork, bottle art, etc
Pros
- High gloss finish
- UV protection
- Durable
- Easy to use
Cons
- May require multiple coats
- Drying time may vary
Best for: Protecting and enhancing acrylic paintings.
Why buy: Provides a long-lasting, high-gloss finish. Offers excellent UV protection.
5. Rust-Oleum 302110 Universal All
Works on virtually any surface.
Oil-based formula, excellent adhesion.
Rust and fade resistant.
Fast drying, easy to apply.
Provides a brilliant shine. Works on virtually any surface including wood, plastic, metal, fiberglass, concrete, wicker, vinyl and more Oil-based formula with excellent adhesion prevents rust, resists fading and chipping for a long lasting finish Fast drying formula dries to the touch in 30 minutes and covers up to 15 sq ft per can Prevents rust and corrosion for enhanced durability Provides a clear, high gloss finish with brilliant shine
Key Features
- Works on virtually any surface including wood, plastic, metal, fiberglass, concrete, wicker, vinyl and more
- Oil-based formula with excellent adhesion prevents rust, resists fading and chipping for a long lasting finish
- Fast drying formula dries to the touch in 30 minutes and covers up to 15 sq ft per can
- Prevents rust and corrosion for enhanced durability
- Provides a clear, high gloss finish with brilliant shine
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable
- Rust-resistant
- Fast drying
Cons
- Oil-based (strong odor)
- May require multiple coats
Best for: Protecting various surfaces outdoors.
Why buy: Offers superior protection and durability. Provides a brilliant, long-lasting shine.
6. Rust-Oleum 7579838 Professional High
Durable oil-based formula.
Excellent rust protection.
Fast drying and easy recoating.
High-output spray tip.
Withstands heavy use. Ideal for use on ferrous, non-ferrous metal, wood, concrete, masonry and other such surfaces to provide rust protection and a tough attractive finish that withstands weathering High quality, durable oil-based formula maintains consistent, corrosion-resistant color despite the elements Covers up to 14 sq ft, dries to touch in 15 minutes and recoats within an hour for quick project completion Commercial, industrial paint formula features a high output tip that can be sprayed at any angle Gloss finish provides a new look for surfaces and withstands demanding, heavy-use environments
Key Features
- Ideal for use on ferrous, non-ferrous metal, wood, concrete, masonry and other such surfaces to provide rust protection and a tough attractive finish that withstands weathering
- High quality, durable oil-based formula maintains consistent, corrosion-resistant color despite the elements
- Covers up to 14 sq ft, dries to touch in 15 minutes and recoats within an hour for quick project completion
- Commercial, industrial paint formula features a high output tip that can be sprayed at any angle
- Gloss finish provides a new look for surfaces and withstands demanding, heavy-use environments
Pros
- Durable
- Rust-resistant
- Fast drying
- Good coverage
Cons
- Oil-based (strong odor)
- Requires proper ventilation
Best for: Protecting metal and other surfaces.
Why buy: Provides exceptional rust protection and durability. Ideal for high-traffic areas and demanding environments.
7. Krylon I00500A07 12-Ounce Triple
One coat covers like three.
Extra high gloss finish.
Permanent and protective.
Non-firing glaze for various materials.
Excellent for crafts and DIY projects. One coat equals three coats of most clear coatings Permanent, protective extra high gloss finish Non-firing glaze for polymer clay, bisque, plaster and more
Key Features
- One coat equals three coats of most clear coatings
- Permanent, protective extra high gloss finish
- Non-firing glaze for polymer clay, bisque, plaster and more
Pros
- Excellent coverage
- Durable
- Easy to apply
- Versatile
Cons
- May not be suitable for all surfaces
- Requires proper ventilation
Best for: Sealing crafts and DIY projects.
Why buy: Offers superior coverage and a brilliant shine. Perfect for a variety of crafting materials.
8. Artecho High Gloss Varnish
Non-toxic and quick drying.
Colorless and water-resistant.
Enhances brightness and seals projects.
Suitable for various materials.
Easy application with soft brush. Non-Toxic, Quick Drying, Colorless Transparent, Water Resistance Functions: Increase the brightness of the work surface. Seal, protect and strengthen your projects. Ideal for: Acrylic painting, Clay, Paper, Wood, etc. How to use:1.Apply the varnish to a dry artwork in thin layers with soft nylon brush. 2.Directly use or dilute with water. 3.Leave to dry for 1h at 20℃ between layers. 4.Build 1 layer for bright finish , continue to add 2-4 layers for requirements of different materials. 5.Clean up tools with water and soap before drying. 6.Avoid use or storage below 5℃
Key Features
- Non-Toxic, Quick Drying, Colorless Transparent, Water Resistance
- Functions: Increase the brightness of the work surface. Seal, protect and strengthen your projects.
- Ideal for: Acrylic painting, Clay, Paper, Wood, etc.
- How to use:1.Apply the varnish to a dry artwork in thin layers with soft nylon brush. 2.Directly use or dilute with water. 3.Leave to dry for 1h at 20℃ between layers. 4.Build 1 layer for bright finish , continue to add 2-4 layers for requirements of different materials. 5.Clean up tools with water and soap before drying. 6.Avoid use or storage below 5℃
Pros
- Non-toxic
- Quick drying
- Versatile
- Easy to apply
Cons
- May require multiple coats
- Drying time may vary
Best for: Sealing and protecting various crafts.
Why buy: Provides a beautiful, glossy finish. Offers excellent protection and durability.
9. Rust-Oleum Paint 241169 High
Indoor and outdoor use.
Rich, semi-gloss sheen (not high gloss).
Withstands repeated heating.
Not suitable for direct flame exposure.
12 oz spray can. Indoor/outdoor Rich, semi-gloss sheen Superior color and sheen retention after repeated heating Do not use in areas directly exposed to flames (e.g., inside of grills or fireplaces) 12 oz. Spray
Key Features
- Indoor/outdoor
- Rich, semi-gloss sheen
- Superior color and sheen retention after repeated heating
- Do not use in areas directly exposed to flames (e.g., inside of grills or fireplaces)
- 12 oz. Spray
Pros
- Heat-resistant
- Durable
- Easy to apply
- Versatile
Cons
- Semi-gloss, not high gloss
- Requires proper ventilation
Best for: High-heat applications.
Why buy: Maintains its color and sheen even at high temperatures. Ideal for grills, stovepipes, and other high-heat surfaces.
10. Rust-Oleum 7779502 Stops Rust
Weather and corrosion resistant.
Durable oil-based formula.
Excellent rust prevention.
Good coverage and long-lasting.
Glossy finish for a fresh shine. Weather and corrosion resistant coating protects exterior/interior surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, masonry and more Oil-based formula provides a durable protective coating with excellent rust prevention Dries to the touch in 2-4 hours and covers up to 90 sq. ft. Excellent resistance to abrasion, fading and chipping Glossy finish provides a fresh shine to surfaces
Key Features
- Weather and corrosion resistant coating protects exterior/interior surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, masonry and more
- Oil-based formula provides a durable protective coating with excellent rust prevention
- Dries to the touch in 2-4 hours and covers up to 90 sq. ft.
- Excellent resistance to abrasion, fading and chipping
- Glossy finish provides a fresh shine to surfaces
Pros
- Durable
- Rust-resistant
- Weather-resistant
- Good coverage
Cons
- Oil-based (strong odor)
- Longer drying time
Best for: Exterior surfaces needing rust protection.
Why buy: Offers superior protection against weather and corrosion. Provides a long-lasting, glossy finish.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Best High Gloss Paint
Choosing the right high-gloss paint depends heavily on your project’s surface and intended use. For interior projects on wood, metal, or plaster, a water-based acrylic paint like Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch offers a low-odor, easy-to-apply solution. Remember to prep surfaces correctly; sanding and cleaning are essential for optimal adhesion and a smooth, even finish. Pay close attention to drying times as well, as many high-gloss paints dry relatively quickly.
When working with artwork or delicate items, a specialized artist’s varnish is recommended. These varnishes, such as Liquitex Professional High Gloss Varnish or GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish, are formulated to protect your work without yellowing or cracking over time. Their non-toxic composition is ideal for those prioritizing safety and health. Apply these varnishes in thin, even coats to prevent streaking or unevenness. Ensure complete drying between coats for best results.
For outdoor projects or those requiring exceptional durability, consider a spray paint like Rust-Oleum Universal All Surface Clear Topcoat or Rust-Oleum Professional High Performance Enamel Spray Paint. These options provide excellent rust protection and a long-lasting, high-gloss finish. Remember that spray paints require careful application to avoid runs and uneven coverage, and appropriate ventilation is necessary for safety. Also, keep in mind the required surface preparation can vary according to the product’s specifications.
Prepare the surface well: clean, fill dents, sand lightly, and use a bonding primer where needed. Good prep is 70% of the result.
Choose the right finish for the room: matte hides flaws, satin balances look/durability, semi-gloss is most wipeable for kitchens/baths.
FAQs
What is the difference between high-gloss and satin paint?
High-gloss paint has a significantly higher sheen than satin paint. High-gloss offers a more reflective surface, while satin provides a softer, less reflective look.
How many coats of high-gloss paint are typically needed?
This depends on the paint and surface, but usually two coats provide full coverage and a deep, rich gloss.
How do I prepare a surface for high-gloss paint?
Proper preparation is crucial. Clean the surface thoroughly, sand it smooth (if necessary), and prime if needed for optimal adhesion and a smooth finish.
Can I use high-gloss paint on all surfaces?
No, some paints are specifically formulated for certain surfaces. Always check the product label to ensure compatibility.
What is the best way to clean up after using high-gloss paint?
Clean brushes and tools immediately with the appropriate solvent (water for water-based paints, mineral spirits for oil-based). Always refer to the specific product instructions.
How long does high-gloss paint take to dry?
Drying time varies depending on the type of paint, temperature, and humidity. Check the product label for specific drying time information.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect high-gloss paint hinges on understanding your project’s unique demands. Consider the surface material, desired durability, and application method. By carefully evaluating your options and following application instructions, you can confidently achieve the stunning, glossy finish you envision.
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