I am doing a sign that needs to have the crackle effect, but would like to use 1-shot since other signs have 1-shot colors. Is there a way or do I need to use latex? New at this crackling thing. This will be first attempt. Posted by Robert Thomas (Member # 1356) on :
One way to do this for an exterior application is to do your basecoat (the color you want as the cracks) in acrylic. Roll on Elmers glue, let dry, spray the topcoat (acrylic), the crackle will appear within 30 minutes. The most important part will be protecting and sealing the finished product. I would spray or roll on three coats of Pelucid.
Posted by Cam Bortz (Member # 55) on :
You can also do a crackle finish using gum arabic. After you finish your lettering, brush on a coat of clear varnish (1-shot tinting clear works great.) Let it set up to a strong tack, then coat it with gum arabic. This will crack as it dries. When everything is dry, take some artist oil colors on a cloth - use a color that contrasts to the background - and rub it over the whole surface, polishing it off as you go. The oil color will remain in the cracks, making them visible. Coat out the whole sign with a good UV clear to protect it.
Posted by Jonathan Androsky (Member # 2806) on :
I don't know if you've already seen it, but if it's the antique crackled look you want, have a look at this fantastic how-to courtesy of David Kynaston and SignCraft: Crackle Finishes Posted by Robert Thomas (Member # 1356) on :
Lynn, Do want to crackle the letters only, the whole sign including the copy, or just the copy? Or just the background? The approuch may be different depending upon the final effect desired.
Posted by Stephen Deveau (Member # 1305) on :
Lynn
I don't know the sign you are doing.. Interior or Ex......
But Interior then use One-Shot Posters and allow to dry over night then take "One-Shot UV Clear" and apply a hardy coating....Man what a nice Crackle effect it works.... You can then still work One-Shot Enamels on top of it..
Maybe this helps and maybe not...
Good Luck!
Posted by LynnMineer (Member # 1509) on :
Hey guys... Really appreciate the information regarding the crackling. This has helped me out a bunch. The sign will be interior with the whole sign made to look antique. But prefer enamels as have to stay with same colors as other signs for the business. Thanks again.
Posted by Mike Kelly (Member # 2037) on :
Try rolling on a coat of 1 Shot over latex. Roll on the latex, let set up for about 1/2 hour, roll on the 1 Shot and go over with a heat gun for about 5 minutes. Let it sit for 2 days then sand lightly with #320 sandpaper. Rub in some day-old black coffee, heat with gun, and clear with varnish. Remember to use contrasting colors. Ivory 1 Shot over black latex looks great. Great opportunity to do some experimenting! Good luck.
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