Paint Techniques: Glazing

Glaze refers to a paint substance that is thinned using water or paint thinner to create a transparent or translucent layer of color to a wall. The result is a subtle texture that has less of the desired pigment.

• Acrylic glazes should be applied over a water-based, latex base coat of the color of your choice. 
• A sheen of at least eggshell is ideal

Glazing Statistics:
Glaze type	Drying time	Toxicity	Clean-up	Durability
Oil	Slow	High	Thinners-messy	High
Acrylic	Fast	Minimal	Water - easy	Medium

Types of Glazing:

• Acrylic glazing is a non-toxic, fast drying process. The primary advantages of acrylic glazing are the non-toxic qualities of water-based products and ease of clean up.  However, due to the rapid drying rate of acrylic glazes, it is more difficult to work over large areas. 

Glazing Application Method:

• Because water-based glazes dry quickly, it is important to plan the area efficiently to avoid uneven application (i.e. darker areas). To avoid this, the glaze should be applied in segments from top to bottom and then across the wall.
• Oil Based glazing is subject to a different method as the drying time varies. 
• Application of the glaze can be achieved using a brush, rag, sponge, or cheese cloth. The wall must be wet to begin, and the glaze applied on top of that--more or less paint is applied depending on how dark the desired look. 
• The proper glazing liquid varies depending on whether you are using oil or acrylic based paints, and can be provided by the paint specialist. 

Meredith Woolfolk