can I use Rust-Oleum clear coat on my artwork

I've been wondering about that myself for a long time and decided to try it. Why not? After all it is 3x cheaper than other sealers of the same size used in art. I found a can of Rust-Oleum 2X clear Satin spray paint in my studio so I decided to give it a try.

Rust-Oleum Painter's touch 2X Satin Clear

I chose more than one acrylic painting for the experiment. I knew I could retouch them if it didn't work out since the sealer is a water base product.

After spraying a few paintings with this stuff, I decided to stop. The first one went on fairly easily as I sprayed very thin layers but I noticed the painting became cloudy after my last cover. I figured it needed to dry for a few hours so I set it aside and sprayed my second painting.

The spray didn't come out even and there was more of it in spots so I decided to just leave one coat on it and let it dry. The paint has a very strong lingering odor so I had to let the paintings sit in my garage for a few days to air out before taking it inside to scrutinize them.

This spray paint is toxic so whether you use it for other purposes, do it outside or in a garage with the door(s) open. I also wear a painters' respirator to keep the mist out of my lungs.

After a few days,I was able to take the paintings indoors and compare them to my other paintings I've sealed using acrylic sealers for artwork. Most of my acrylic paintings are either on canvas boards or hardboard panels I made for painting. In comparing the Rust-Oleum clear coat, the other paintings looked much clearer and brighter. The colors with the Rust-Oleum seemed to be faded and have a cloudy look to them.

In conclusion: Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch, 2X, Clear is not a good choice regardless of price. It does not go on or dry crystal clear as do other acrylic sealers made for acrylic paintings so I can not recommend using it on your artwork. Spend the extra money for a good acrylic sealer, yu won't be disappointed.