Ask the Experts Painting Q&A

Could you tell me what paint to use on wooden beads that doesn't chip off? What varnish do you recommend to use after you paint?

- Tammy

Acrylic paint works best for painting on bare wood and nut beads. After the paint is dry, seal and protect the painted surface with Mona Lisa™ Metal Leaf™ top coat sealant. Use a paintbrush to apply a thin coat of sealant to all areas then let dry. 

Mona Lisa Metal Leaf is dry in approximately 15 - 30 minutes. If desired, a second coat can be added. A full drying time of 24 hours is recommended. Take care in both the painting and sealing process to not fill or block your bead holes; consider stringing the beads onto a stiff wire, pipe cleaner or other similar item.

- Michelle Wood, Jewelry-Making Expert