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How To Weather Proof Indoor Art For Outdoor Use

Learn how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use in this simple, step-by-step tutorial. You won't believe just how easy it is to decorate outdoor spaces with your favourite artistic finds.

I’ve always believed that the best way to create the perfect outdoor oasis is to take your cues from your indoor style.  And what better addition to your patio, porch or balcony than a beautiful piece of canvas art. It only takes a few extra steps to weather proof canvas art, but it is well worth it. And with so many ways to hang objects on exterior walls nowadays, including vinyl siding clips and other outdoor hooks, your walls need not be neglected. So today I’ll be showing you how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use. You’ll be surprised at just how easy it is.

~This page contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you. See my full disclosure policy here.~

MATERIALS You Will Need To Weatherproof Indoor Art For Outdoor Use

How to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use - materials


STEPS

Step 1:  Seal Frame (Polyurethane)

Spray the frame of the canvas with Krylon polyurethane spray sealer (or another you have on hand).

Weather proof art - spray sealer over frame

Be sure to roll back and tape down any loose canvas on the back to get thorough coverage.

Weather proof art - spray sealer over frameIf you have chosen white canvas art, avoid spraying directly on the canvas. Polyurethane can leave an amber hue after it dries and this will show through. Cover your canvas in newspaper to protect it.

Let dry.

Step 2:  Seal Canvas (Mod Podge)

Weather proof art - spray Mode Podge sealer

Spray the entire canvas, front and back, using Mod Podge clear acrylic sealer (or your acrylic sealer of choice). Make sure to follow the instructions on the can. Spray a second layer after the canvas has fully dried for added protection.

And that’s it! Now simply hang up using your choice of hanger (Vinyl Clips or Command Hooks for Outdoor Use).

Learn how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use in this simple, step-by-step tutorial. You won't believe just how easy it is to decorate outdoor spaces with your favourite artistic finds.

Learn how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use in this simple, step-by-step tutorial. You won't believe just how easy it is to decorate outdoor spaces with your favourite artistic finds.

Learn how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use in this simple, step-by-step tutorial. You won't believe just how easy it is to decorate outdoor spaces with your favourite artistic finds.

Learn how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use in this simple, step-by-step tutorial. You won't believe just how easy it is to decorate outdoor spaces with your favourite artistic finds.

Do’s & Don’t’s To Watch Out For

Don’tuse polyurethane spray on white canvas art.  Although I’ve read a couple of articles suggesting polyurethane for canvas art, many polyurethane sprays leave a slight amber hue when dry. This is because the spray is intended for sealing outdoor furniture. If you’re using art that is brown or dark, then you will not likely notice the difference. But for white canvas art, I would suggest limiting its use to sealing the frame alone.

Don’t…use Outdoor Mod Podge Waterbase Sealer.  Don’t get me wrong on this! I love Mod Podge! But for a project like this, Mod Podge’s outdoor waterbase sealer (which is a different product from the sealer I used for this project) can leave a ‘tacky’ almost sticky film on the outside of the canvas if you don’t have a lot of experience with Mod Podge in general. Mod Podge’s clear acrylic spray sealer, is easy to use and foolproof, in my opinion. For product information, click here to see the outdoor waterbase sealer and here to review the clear acrylic spray.

That being said, if your canvas hangs in an area that is especially exposed to the elements (unlike our little walk out which has a bit of protection), and you are a worry wart 😉 then I would advise the following:

Do…use Outdoor Mod Podge Waterbase Sealer before applying Mod Podge Clear Acrylic Sealer.  If you would like added protection from the elements, then first apply a thin base layer of the Mod Podge outdoor waterbase sealer. After drying, follow this up with the Mod Podge clear acrylic spray sealer. The first will provide more waterproofing, while the second will seal that first layer in and provide a smooth, non-sticky surface finish.

For more information on the diverse uses of Mod Podge, both indoors and out, I strongly suggest you visit the amazing blog Mod Podge Rocks. For a great article on Mod Podge and the outdoors, see “Learn How To Mod Podge/FAQ.”  This is perhaps the single most useful article in clearing up some of the confusion that often surrounds which Mod Podge is best for which project.

Hope this post was useful for all of you looking to create your perfect outdoor retreat!

 

 

 

Learn how to weather proof indoor art for outdoor use in this simple, step-by-step tutorial. You won't believe just how easy it is to decorate outdoor spaces with your favourite artistic finds.

 

 

 

 

52 Comments

  • Reply
    Victoria @DazzleWhileFrazzled
    August 4, 2016 at 7:19 pm

    Very good idea about putting inside art outside. I love spray-on poly. Much easier to deal with than the roll-on kind. Visiting from Handmade Hangout.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 4, 2016 at 7:26 pm

      Thanks Victoria. I love the spray sealer much better as well. Easier to cover and leaves a smooth finish. Take care!

  • Reply
    Debrashoppeno5
    August 5, 2016 at 8:49 pm

    Adding art to your outdoor space is a great idea. It sure adds style and makes it very decorative.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 6, 2016 at 6:11 am

      I love the idea of making the outdoors feel as cozy and stylish as an indoor sitting space 🙂

  • Reply
    Michelle
    August 6, 2016 at 4:16 am

    Love this. I always get confused with the different Mod Podges, so I really appreciate the tips and do’s and don’t you shared. Thank you

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 6, 2016 at 6:09 am

      You’re welcome 🙂 Take care 🙂

  • Reply
    Sam @ A Happy Home In Holland
    August 7, 2016 at 5:26 pm

    Super tips! I would really like to try this – pinned for later!

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 9, 2016 at 6:55 pm

      Thanks Sam 🙂

  • Reply
    Celeste
    August 8, 2016 at 1:52 pm

    Love that artwork! Of course I’m obsessed with the color. And such a great idea to weatherproof it so you can decorate outside, too! Your patio area is so cute!

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 8, 2016 at 8:24 pm

      Thanks Celeste! Really was aiming to create a little cozy space there and just had to add some outdoors-y artwork 🙂

  • Reply
    Theresa
    August 10, 2016 at 10:39 pm

    I love your outdoor art and the tips! Your space is so pretty. When it cools down I need to fix up my yard again. It gets crazy hot here in the summer months.
    Thanks for sharing at the #InspirationSpotlight Party. Pinned & shared.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 11, 2016 at 6:10 am

      Thanks Theresa! We are going through a heat spell up here as well. Stay hydrated!

  • Reply
    Mary-the boondocks blog
    August 11, 2016 at 5:10 pm

    Jelica, I had no idea that mod podge comes in spray. Oh goody! Would you believe me if I told you I just discovered mod podge about a year and a half ago? I was so excited when I first bought it that I took two packs with me back to Greece. Like a little kid in a candy shop.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 16, 2016 at 2:16 pm

      I know what you mean Mary. It’s amazing the number of uses that Mod Podge covers. I continue to be amazed at the variety of things you can do with it 🙂

  • Reply
    Carol
    August 11, 2016 at 5:28 pm

    Great idea and pretty art. Featuring when my link party opens up tonight!

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 16, 2016 at 2:16 pm

      Thanks so much Carol!

  • Reply
    K. Delp
    January 12, 2018 at 10:24 pm

    Hi!…Just came across this as I’m looking for info on sealing my canvas in order to hang it in my bathroom. It is pretty BIG, and has an octopus painted on it. I don’t know about the paint, but it stands off the canvas. Was wondering if you think your method above might work for this painting?? I’m concerned about humidity from showers. Any info you can give would be helpful. Thank you.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      January 13, 2018 at 7:09 pm

      Hi Kathy,
      The artwork I had was a canvas print, so the sealer I used was just perfect for it. It would probably work fairly well on yours, but since it is a textured piece (by the sounds of it), I would explore other options first. In fact, there is a new product on the market called “Never Wet” by Rustoleum (I have yet to try it, but have seen and heard good things about it). Here are 2 links that demonstrate just how water-resistant the material is: https://www.artmolds.com/blog/water-proof-your-art.html (this one has a video demonstration) AND http://www.blueistyleblog.com/2016/07/HowToWaterproofOutdoorArt.html. If you decide to go this route, first ask the manufacturer to make sure that it does not yellow over time (which can be the case with some sealers). Rustoleum is a great brand and has a solid reputation behind it.
      Good luck!

  • Reply
    Paul
    February 12, 2018 at 4:47 pm

    Whoops … How much Mod Podge will I need to treat 2 pieces.
    that are 3 x 5?

    • Reply
      Jelica
      February 12, 2018 at 7:43 pm

      Not much at all Paul. You should apply a very think layer, much like a varnish. Maybe a nickel/dime sized dollop on your brush. If you apply more than that, once dry, it will feel more ‘tacky’ when it dries. This means you’ve applied too much. If you are still not sure and need some more assurance, click on the link in the post that takes you to Mod Podge Rocks – this blogger is a real pro at walking you through the process!

      • Reply
        Jelica
        February 12, 2018 at 8:42 pm

        HI Paul, Just a follow-up comment. Looking at your question, I assumed 3 by 5 inches, but you are likely asking about a large piece: 3 by 5 feet? If so, then you will need more, of course! Just work on small areas using the same guideline as I originally suggested (3 by 5 inches using a dime sized dollop) and you should be good to go!

  • Reply
    Fran
    March 17, 2018 at 1:09 pm

    Can one use this method to protect outdoor canvas furniture? Is ‘waterproofing’ the same as ‘weatherproofing’?…..I’m not only concerned with the chairs getting wet in the rain, but I worry about sun damage.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      March 17, 2018 at 5:57 pm

      Hi Fran,
      For outdoor canvas furniture, I would suggest you use a spray sealer that’s designed specifically for outdoor fabrics. If you google or search on Amazon for an ‘UV protection spray for outdoor fabrics or furniture.” You can find plenty of options on line that provide both UV and water protection like Scotchgard’s water and sun shield spray: http://bit.ly/2FQFsUx
      Hope this helps!

  • Reply
    jeff
    July 24, 2018 at 11:02 am

    Will the canvas prints fade over time?

    • Reply
      Jelica
      July 27, 2018 at 8:32 pm

      Hi Jeff,

      I bring my art indoors in the winter, so I’ve never had that experience. Mine is also in a relatively shady area that does not get much direct sunlight. I would expect that if the print is left out in direct sunlight that it would probably fade over time.

  • Reply
    Marni
    September 12, 2018 at 11:43 pm

    Can this method be used on hand painted canvas art? I went to a “paint bar” and painted a large canvas that would look amazing by my patio, but need to seal it. I used acrylic paint and it is fully dry. Can I still use the polyurthene on the frame and mod podge on the canvas?

    • Reply
      Jelica
      September 16, 2018 at 3:53 pm

      Hi Marni,
      Just my opinion here, but yes I think that would work. In my experience, since Mod Podge dries clear, it would be one way of sealing the surface of your canvas. I certainly wouldn’t hesitate to do what your suggesting. The piece I sealed has not yellowed and it’s been a couple of years already. As far as the polyurethane is concerned, just make sure to avoid getting it on the canvas because of the rust hue it has (unless your piece is brown or dark).
      Hope this helps!

  • Reply
    Deborah Moses
    March 29, 2019 at 12:41 pm

    Hi Jelica, Thanks for this helpful blog! I am looking at buying what is called a “glicee print” which I am told is textured watercolor paper that is treated and it feels like fabric – almost like felt. Do you know if your treatment would work on this medium? This particular piece comes in a canvas print but they insist on framing it and the cost is high – I don’t want to risk spending a lot and then not having the treatment work or having the sun fade it in a few years. The glicee is much cheaper. Thanks!

    • Reply
      Jelica
      April 13, 2019 at 4:39 pm

      Hi Deborah,
      I can’t say that this would work on felt that is left outdoors. Mod Podge does claim to be an all-around fabric sealer, but I have not used it to seal fabric textured art per se. Because it is a giclee print, I would find out from the seller if it would be suitable outdoors before exploring sealing options. Better to be safe than sorry.

  • Reply
    Julie
    June 20, 2019 at 10:56 am

    We’ve lost a family pet. I want to put a couple of pictures on his patio. My thoughts originally were to put canvas prints out there. And although the patio is covered, I wondered about being able to clean off bug poop. Lol. Can I damp wipe the canvas with the mod podge?

    • Reply
      Jelica
      July 14, 2019 at 3:35 pm

      I’m sorry to hear about losing your family pet. I know how that feels…As far as wiping the canvas once the sealer is on, yes, you can absolutely do that. I’ve had to wipe it down from time to time (cleaning up bug poop, an’ all!).

  • Reply
    Heather
    July 3, 2019 at 9:22 pm

    Nervous about putting newspaper on it and then spraying. Would the ink not adhere to the canvas also? Or do I not understand that part? Wanting to protect two pieces of my photography on canvas.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      July 14, 2019 at 3:16 pm

      Hi Heather,
      I would most definitely wait for the sealer to dry before flipping it over onto the newspaper. But, if you’re nervous about that still, then just put down some drop cloth, and you should be good to go 🙂

  • Reply
    Avis Rueweler
    August 4, 2019 at 3:16 pm

    Hello Jelica. I am having a digital photo I did printed on stretched canvas. I want to hang it outside. The sun hits this spot at an angle in the late afternoon. Would Mod Podge be enough to keep the color and protect it from the elements? Or, should I choose a more protected, shaded spot? Regards, Avis

    • Reply
      Jelica
      August 18, 2019 at 12:34 pm

      Hi Avis,
      It’s difficult to predict. I would say that Mod Podge can provide some protection, but if it’s a spot that gets the late afternoon sun, then to be on the safe side, I would either find a more protected spot or find a sealer that specifically protects colours from fading. If you google or search on Amazon for an ‘UV protection spray for outdoor fabrics or furniture” this kind of search may yield better results because these kinds of sealers are used to protect colours from fading. Hope this helps!

  • Reply
    Avis Rueweler
    August 18, 2019 at 2:48 pm

    Thank you, Jelica, for getting back to me. I suspected Mod Podge wouldn’t be enough to protect my expensive canvas. Good to know. Regards, Avis

  • Reply
    Lisa
    September 28, 2019 at 3:49 pm

    Hello Jelica,
    I’m buying some canvases which are printed with HP Latex water-based ink. I want to put them in the bath, which of course is super moist. Your idea of the Mod Podge clear acrylic sealer and the polyurethane on the frame sounds good. I’m going to try it.

    • Reply
      Jelica
      October 20, 2019 at 5:09 pm

      Glad you found me! Let me know how it holds up 🙂

  • Reply
    Michelle
    March 27, 2020 at 5:06 am

    HI, what if you want to paint a piece yourself that will live outside? Ie a property sign? can I use my standard acrylic paints on appropriately primed timber, and seal over for out door life? Thank you

  • Reply
    Betsy Miller
    September 21, 2020 at 3:37 pm

    I want to frame a poster (paper) for outdoor use. It will be under cover but I’m still afraid the moisture with damage the paper. What can done to assure that won’t happen? Thanks

    • Reply
      Jelica
      April 14, 2021 at 11:00 am

      Hi Betsy, I suspect that a frame will not protect your poster from getting damp or damaged, mainly because there is nothing ‘sealing’ in the poster. The frame just won’t do much since there is always a way for moisture, dew or anything else to creep in there. If you want to do a ‘test,’ the one thing that comes to mind for me is to use a different framed paper (something you won’t miss if damaged) and:
      1. Spray the paper itself – before framing – by using a product on the market called “Never Wet” by Rustoleum (I have yet to try it, but have seen and heard good things about it). Here are 2 links that demonstrate just how water-resistant the material is: https://www.artmolds.com/blog/water-proof-your-art.html (this one has a video demonstration) AND http://www.blueistyleblog.com/2016/07/HowToWaterproofOutdoorArt.html.
      2. Let your paper dry, then frame it, then place it outside to see how it responds to that first rainfall. This may give you the answers you need.
      Good luck!

  • Reply
    Cynthia
    July 25, 2021 at 11:02 am

    Good morning, do you need to apply outdoor sealer yearly for out door canvas art

    • Reply
      Jelica
      June 12, 2022 at 2:51 pm

      Hi Cynthia, Depending on how harsh your climate, I would apply it annually or every other year. You can gauge that each year and get a sense of how your art survives through the seasons.

  • Reply
    Karen
    September 25, 2021 at 8:35 am

    My piece is acrylic on a wood panel, painted both front and back. So I’m trying to figure out what combination of the ModPodge and the Krylon would be appropriate. Any wisdom to share?

    • Reply
      Jelica
      June 12, 2022 at 2:48 pm

      Good question! I haven’t used this combo on acrylic/wood so I couldn’t say for sure. BUT, I would explore replacing the Krylon spray with Minwax’s polycrylic clear gloss (which does not yellow) and would probably be a better choice for a wood panel specifically.

  • Reply
    Greg
    September 25, 2021 at 5:33 pm

    Hi there,
    I just moved to the south of Spain and intend to decorate my home with a Moroccan flair. My large outdoor patio is perfect for hanging art. The information offered on this site helps me find altenate methods of creating outdoor art if what I find is unsatisfactory.
    Thank you

    • Reply
      Jelica
      June 12, 2022 at 2:40 pm

      You’re so welcome! I hope your move went smoothly and that you are enjoying all the beauty there!

  • Reply
    Ann
    November 9, 2022 at 11:47 am

    Hi! Do you recommend anything for ceramic tile to weather proof it and grout areas? Thanks!

    • Reply
      Jelica
      March 10, 2023 at 1:46 pm

      Unfortunately, I don’t have an answer to your question, Ann. You may need to do some sleuthing on that online. Good luck!

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