Craquelure System produces a cracked varnish effect for a traditional aged finish. By using a simple two part (base coat and top coat) clear acrylic system this varnish faithfully reproduces the regular crazed pattern associated with old porcelain glazes.

Please note that you need to buy both the base coat and the top coat to create the effect.

The crackle effect produced by craquelure can be accentuated with a crack highlighter which is available in either white or dark brown for a truly aged finish.

Ideal for
• antiquing • decoupage • small objects • picture frames • decorative finishes

Drying time: 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on temperature
Coverage: 8 square metres per litre
Available in: 100ml • 500ml • 1 litre

Application
Invert bottle to mix. Apply with a good quality brush. Craquelure performs very well between 16°c (60°f) and 21°c (70°f). Performance outside this range is impaired. Seal porous surfaces with the Top Coat before starting and allow to dry.

Apply a liberal coating of Base Coat to the surface, avoiding brush marks and unevenness. Allow to dry – the milky appearance turns clear but the surface remains sticky. Apply a coating of Top Coat avoiding brush marks and unevenness.

As the Top Coat dries, fine cracks will appear. If the temperature is too high, play a fan or cold hair dryer over the surface.

Use Polyvine Craquelure highlighter in dark or light to emphasise the craquelure effect - see swatches for effect.

For extra protection apply a coat of Top Coat.

Caution
Always try the technique on a test piece before embarking on the project. Walls and vertical surfaces need a lot of practice.