What Kinds Of Paint Are Used For Ceiling Medallions

Ceiling medallions are decorative embellishments, installed on the ceiling above hanging chandeliers or ceiling fans. The medallion is used to cover a hole in the ceiling for passage of electrical wiring. Ceiling medallions, once made of plaster, are now typically made of more durable plastic resin. Medallions are available in multiple styles and sizes. Both plaster and resin medallions are paintable with a wide variety of media. Three types of media are typically used to paint a ceiling medallion: a seal and prime coat, pigmented paint and a clear coat to protect the paint. Whenever possible, you should paint the medallion before installing it.

Seal and Prime Coat

Prior to painting the ceiling medallion, you should seal and prime it to ensure even paint coverage. Gesso, applied with a natural paintbrush, seals the plaster or resin and provides a matte surface that readily accepts acrylic or enamel decorative paint. Acrylic gesso contains pigments suspended in an acrylic binding medium and a chalklike filler. The filler simulates the look of plaster, an effect desired by many home-renovators.

Acrylic Craft Paint

Acrylic craft paint is well-suited for use on ceiling medallions. Since the medallion is rarely handled and is not likely to receive direct sunlight, inexpensive craft paint is sufficiently durable and colorfast. Acrylic craft paint is available in a wide variety of colors. Cleanup is simple, using only soap and water.

Enamel Craft Paint

Enamel craft paint may be water-based or solvent-based. Solvent-based enamel craft paint is more durable than acrylic or water-based enamel paint and a good choice if the ceiling medallion is installed in an area that may be subjected to humidity. Turpentine or mineral spirits are needed for cleanup when using solvent-based enamel paints.

Finishing Seal Coat

Clear-drying acrylic, enamel or polyurethane are suitable sealants for the painted ceiling medallion. Clear sealants are available in matte, satin or gloss finishes. Since overspray is a hazard of spray-on sealants, brush-on sealants work better on installed medallions.

Tags: ceiling medallion, craft paint, Acrylic craft, acrylic enamel, Ceiling medallions, craft paint