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I am new to the forum (registered) although I have read it many times over the last few years. I have finally decided to participate (shy here).
I see that many people in the community are fans of Mica sprays (Distress or Dylusions Shimmer for example). And I would like to be too, but every time I use them on my creations (art journaling, cardmaking and scraptags), when the spray dries, what I'm left with is a beautiful shimmery powder that disappears if I rub my finger on it. I have searched the internet for ways to fix the mica of these sprays so that I can layer on top other pieces. Most people agree that Distress Microglaze is the best way to fix the mica. The problem with this (and other similar solutions) is that Microglaze is an oil and wax based product, so it is designed to repel any other water based product and is therefore recommended to be used as a FINAL coat, not as an intermediate coat. In other words, using Microglaze over a layer of mica sprays and then gluing other elements with PVA glue (Nuvo or whatever) is actually a bad idea because the adhesion power is very compromised (it apparently sticks, I know, but in reality it is a weak bonding and I don't like this... -I give great importance to a good bonding, you know the kind that if you try to pull it off it actually tears everyhing-).
Does anyone have any ideas on how to use these sprays more permanently?
PS. Sorry for my English (not native).
The following 5 users liked this post by tryingtocreate:
I agree, It is really frustrating so I avoid using them. Now thinking about it with your post, I wonder if a matte spray fixative between layers would work, much like it would be used between pastel or watercolor layers. Or brayering some matte medium over a gel plate and press the sprayed piece into it, that way it wouldn't smear like it would if the matte medium was brushed on.
The following 2 users liked this post by KathyCich:
Thank you for your reply and your idea. I will try something like that given that it may have more grip. Nevertheless I think it would be lovely if manufacturers could create products with more stability.
Have you tried heat setting first? Sometimes that locks in product in a way just air drying does not. I have no idea why. Also what paper are you using? If it is coated maybe that is the problem?
I found this vid about using them but also consider asking Ranger. They are really good about responding.
Hello tryingtocreate! I am not familiar with the mica product, but just wanted to send you a warm welcome, and say that you have no need to apologize for your English. It’s perfect! I look forward to reading more of your posts! 😀
Originally Posted by tryingtocreate
Hello!
I am new to the forum (registered) although I have read it many times over the last few years. I have finally decided to participate (shy here).
I see that many people in the community are fans of Mica sprays (Distress or Dylusions Shimmer for example). And I would like to be too, but every time I use them on my creations (art journaling, cardmaking and scraptags), when the spray dries, what I'm left with is a beautiful shimmery powder that disappears if I rub my finger on it. I have searched the internet for ways to fix the mica of these sprays so that I can layer on top other pieces. Most people agree that Distress Microglaze is the best way to fix the mica. The problem with this (and other similar solutions) is that Microglaze is an oil and wax based product, so it is designed to repel any other water based product and is therefore recommended to be used as a FINAL coat, not as an intermediate coat. In other words, using Microglaze over a layer of mica sprays and then gluing other elements with PVA glue (Nuvo or whatever) is actually a bad idea because the adhesion power is very compromised (it apparently sticks, I know, but in reality it is a weak bonding and I don't like this... -I give great importance to a good bonding, you know the kind that if you try to pull it off it actually tears everyhing-).
Does anyone have any ideas on how to use these sprays more permanently?
What about a workable fixative? It is made for just the process you are asking for. It preserves what it is sprayed on, but provides a surface that can still be manipulated, which would include adhesives.
Hi! I use mica powders and sprays often, and I simply spray the cards with either matte or glossy sealants. Any of them would work. I prefer the one by Speedball. "Mona Lisa" which I also use on my Alcohol Inks. I use a card board box, and place them in the bottom, and spray them. It is best to do this outdoors. It takes awhile to let them dry, but they are great after.
Me, again. I used to use hair spray. It would need to be aerosol. And it would not be archival or even close. It would depend on what it was going to be used for.
I am new to the forum (registered) although I have read it many times over the last few years. I have finally decided to participate (shy here).
I see that many people in the community are fans of Mica sprays (Distress or Dylusions Shimmer for example). And I would like to be too, but every time I use them on my creations (art journaling, cardmaking and scraptags), when the spray dries, what I'm left with is a beautiful shimmery powder that disappears if I rub my finger on it. I have searched the internet for ways to fix the mica of these sprays so that I can layer on top other pieces. Most people agree that Distress Microglaze is the best way to fix the mica. The problem with this (and other similar solutions) is that Microglaze is an oil and wax based product, so it is designed to repel any other water based product and is therefore recommended to be used as a FINAL coat, not as an intermediate coat. In other words, using Microglaze over a layer of mica sprays and then gluing other elements with PVA glue (Nuvo or whatever) is actually a bad idea because the adhesion power is very compromised (it apparently sticks, I know, but in reality it is a weak bonding and I don't like this... -I give great importance to a good bonding, you know the kind that if you try to pull it off it actually tears everyhing-).
Does anyone have any ideas on how to use these sprays more permanently?
PS. Sorry for my English (not native).
Your written English is perfect, and a lot better than many, many people who have English as their FIRST language. Welcome! I know we are all pleased to hear from you.
Mica and permanence
