Jesmonite® Sealers Explained: When (and When Not) to Seal Your Projects
When working with Jesmonite® AC100 and AC730, one of the most common questions is: Do I need to seal my project? The answer: not always.
Jesmonite® is known for coming out of the mold with a smooth, durable surface. Both AC100 (eco-resin) and AC730 (micro-concrete) cure into strong, long-lasting materials that don’t require sealing to function or hold their shape.
Jesmonite® Out of the Mold
One of the reasons makers love Jesmonite® is how beautifully it demolds. Both AC100 and AC730 release with a smooth finish that feels complete without extra work. They’re naturally durable and don’t need sealing just to “set” or “stay together.” For many purely decorative pieces, you can stop right there.
It’s also worth noting that both AC100 and AC730 are Class A fire-rated, making them safe to use unsealed for candle vessels or other projects that may be exposed to heat or open flame.
Why Seal Jesmonite® Projects?
Even though Jesmonite® is strong on its own, sealing adds an extra layer of protection and can dramatically change the final look and feel of your piece. Sealing is especially helpful when:
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Protection is needed → For coasters, trays, planters, or any functional item that may be exposed to water, spills, or stains.
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Outdoor use → For pieces displayed outside, sealing helps guard against weather and UV exposure.
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Surface finish preference → Sealing allows you to choose between a matte, natural look or a glossy, polished effect.
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Longevity → Sealing can extend the life of your projects, keeping them looking fresh and vibrant over time.
⚠️ Important: Our sealers are not fire tested. If you’re making candle vessels or any project that will come into direct contact with heat or flame, we recommend leaving your Jesmonite® unsealed.
Types of Jesmonite® Sealers
At FTC Creative, we offer three sealing solutions to fit different project needs:
1. Acrylic Matte Sealer (AC100)
A water-based sealer designed for Jesmonite® AC100 projects. It provides invisible protection while maintaining a soft, natural finish. Perfect if you want your piece to look and feel like raw stone or clay, but with added resistance to water and stains.
2. Acrylic Gloss Sealer (AC100 & AC730)
This versatile sealer works on both AC100 and AC730, offering a protective layer with a high-gloss finish. It enhances color vibrancy and gives your projects a polished, professional look — ideal for terrazzo-style work where pigments and chips should really shine.
3. Flexiguard Sealer (AC730)
Specially formulated for Jesmonite® AC730 micro-concrete. This solvent-free sealer protects porous surfaces from water and stains without altering the natural, stone-like texture. It’s especially valuable for outdoor or functional pieces where subtle, invisible protection is key.
Want the Full Details?
This blog is just an introduction to sealing. For complete guidance on all Jesmonite® ancillary products — including when and how to use sealers, retarders, thixotrope, and more — download our FREE Jesmonite® Ancillaries User Guide.
