Best Paint Primers & Sealers of 2025

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Paint primers and sealers are essential products for any painting project. Primers are used to prepare surfaces for painting by creating a smooth and even base. They help to hide imperfections, increase adhesion, and prevent stains from bleeding through the paint. Sealers, on the other hand, are applied after the paint has dried to protect the surface from moisture, stains, and fading. They also provide an additional layer of durability and longevity to the paint job. Both primers and sealers come in a variety of formulations, including water-based, oil-based, and specialty options for specific surfaces such as metal or masonry.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer Cover #TOP 1
Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Liquitex Professional Clear Gesso Surface Prep Medium Cover #TOP 2
Liquitex Professional Clear Gesso Surface Prep Medium
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Ranger Dina Wakley Media Clear Gesso Cover #TOP 3
Ranger Dina Wakley Media Clear Gesso
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Paint Primers & Sealers

#TOP 1

Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer

1470
Clear
Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer Cover
Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer that is Specifically Formulated to Seal Craft Projects, Dries Crystal Clear is Non-Yellowing No-Run and Quick Drying, 12 ounce, Gloss

Mod Podge Acrylic Sealer is a must-have for your art supplies. This 12 oz clear sealer dries to a glossy, crystal clear finish, adding a beautiful shine to your arts and crafts. It is easy to use and works great on various surfaces such as wood, metal, canvas, and terra cotta. The convenience of this sealer extends beyond its performance - after completing your project, simply turn the can upside down and spray to prevent the nozzle from clogging. With Mod Podge Acrylic Sealer, you can trust in the quality and experience of a brand that has been America's favorite for over 50 years. Made in the USA, this sealer is the perfect finishing touch for your creative projects.

What We Like
Convenient size
Glossy, crystal clear finish
Works on multiple surfaces
#TOP 2

Liquitex Professional Clear Gesso Surface Prep Medium

7608
Clear
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Liquitex Professional Clear Gesso Surface Prep Medium Cover
Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 237ml (8.0 oz), Clear

Liquitex Professional Clear Gesso Surface Prep Medium has a fluid consistency that makes it easy to apply to surfaces for painting. It helps to reduce the viscosity of heavier paints and gels, and comes in an 8-oz / 237ml bottle. This medium mixes well with Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors and Mediums, and is safe for educational use, conforming to ASTM D4236.

What We Like
Fluid consistency for easy application
Reduces viscosity of heavier paints and gels
Mixes well with Liquitex acrylic paints and mediums
#TOP 3

Ranger Dina Wakley Media Clear Gesso

MDM46424
Clear
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Ranger Dina Wakley Media Clear Gesso Cover
Ranger MDM46424 Dina Wakley Media Gesso 4oz Jar-Clear, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Ranger Dina Wakley Media Clear Gesso is a great choice for artists who want to apply paint to surfaces while allowing the background to show through. This medium provides tooth for paint to grab, but it also allows any underlays to show, making it perfect for sealing layers or making slippery surfaces more workable. Made in the USA.

What We Like
Allows the background to show through
Provides tooth for paint to grab
Ideal for sealing layers or making slippery surfaces more workable
#TOP 4

Plaid Clear Acrylic Sealer, Matte

Plaid
CS200306
Clear
Matte
Plaid Clear Acrylic Sealer, Matte Cover
Plaid Clear Acrylic Sealers, Matte

Plaid Matte Acrylic Sealer is a versatile 12 oz spray that is essential for your art projects. Its matte, crystal-clear finish not only enhances your crafts but also provides a protective layer once dry. You can easily apply this sealer on various surfaces like wood, metal, canvas, and terra cotta, making it perfect for different types of artwork. Additionally, cleanup is a breeze; simply turn the can upside down and spray to prevent nozzle clogs, ensuring your next use is just as easy as the first. This product is truly a reliable choice for any artist or crafter.

What We Like
Convenient 12 oz size
Matte, clear protective finish
Works on various surfaces
Easy cleanup process
Trusted brand among artists
#TOP 5

Liquitex Soluvar Gloss Varnish 295g

6025
Soluvar Gloss
Liquitex Soluvar Gloss Varnish 295g Cover
Liquitex Professional Soluvar Gloss Varnish, 295g (10.4-oz), Aerosol Spray

Liquitex Gloss Varnish is a versatile aerosol spray that offers a glossy, transparent finish for your artwork. This varnish is archival and removable, allowing you to protect your pieces without permanently altering them. It dries quickly to a lightweight, water-resistant surface that won't yellow over time, ensuring your art maintains its vibrancy. Additionally, it's designed to mix seamlessly with other Liquitex acrylic paints and mediums, giving you flexibility in your creative projects. With these features, you can confidently enhance and preserve your artistic creations.

What We Like
Archival and removable
Water-resistant finish
Non-yellowing properties
Intermixable with acrylics
#TOP 6

Micro-Mark Gray Airbrush Primer 8oz

29276
Grey
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Micro-Mark Gray Airbrush Primer 8oz Cover
Micro-Mark Gray Airbrush Primer, 8oz - Made in USA Acrylic Surface Primer for Models, Miniatures, and Crafts

The Micro-Mark Primer offers excellent buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve the desired finish for your projects. Its compatibility with both Micro-Mark's Paints and other brands provides you with the flexibility to mix and match for optimal results. This versatile primer works effectively on various materials, including plastic, wood, and resin, making it a great choice for any crafting endeavor. With its user-friendly design, featuring a convenient cap and sealed spout, you can dispense just the right amount without any mess, ensuring a smooth application every time.

What We Like
Buildable coverage
Compatible with various paints
Works on multiple materials
User-friendly dispensing
#TOP 7

DecoArt Americana Multi-Purpose Sealer

DS17-3
Clear
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
DecoArt Americana Multi-Purpose Sealer Cover
DecoArt DS17-3 Americana Multi-Purpose Sealer, 2-Ounce

The DecoArt Multi-Purpose Sealer is designed to build trust with users through its reliable performance. Darice, the manufacturer, ensures that you get this high-quality product at the lowest prices possible, making it a great choice for budget-conscious consumers. Proudly made in the United States, this sealer reflects quality craftsmanship. With a compact package size of 4.0 H x 8.0 L x 0.75 W, it's easy to store and handle, making your crafting experience more convenient.

What We Like
Affordable pricing
Made in the USA
Compact packaging
Reliable performance
#TOP 8

Createx Colors Black AutoBorne Sealer

6002-08
Black
8 oz
Createx Colors Black AutoBorne Sealer Cover
Createx Colors Black 8oz. AutoBorne Sealer, 8 oz

Createx Black Sealer is a quick-drying primer that provides an excellent base for any Createx Colors paint. It adheres well to various surfaces like plastic, wood, and metal, ensuring a reliable foundation for your projects. This blue-shade jet black sealer covers quickly, preventing issues like chalking or edge-mapping once dry. It dries to a matte finish that is both water-resistant and durable, offering a perfect flat black appearance. Additionally, using this sealer allows colors to dry faster, as it requires less material for effective coverage, making your painting process more efficient.

What We Like
Quick-drying formula
Excellent surface adhesion
Durable matte finish
Reduces material use
#TOP 9

Claines Art Acrylic Gesso Primer 500ml

Claines Art
WGP01
White
Claines Art Acrylic Gesso Primer 500ml Cover
Claines Art Acrylic White Gesso Primer Matte 500ml (16.9-oz) for Oil Painting, Acrylic Painting & Water Based Paint

The Claines Art Gesso Primer is an essential white sealer designed for absorbent surfaces like canvas, paper, or wood. It prepares your painting surface effectively by ensuring the right texture and absorbency for both acrylic and oil paints. You’ll appreciate its highly pigmented formula, allowing you to mix it with other colors to create custom grounds. Additionally, this primer offers excellent coverage and dries quickly, typically needing just one or two coats to achieve the desired finish. It's also certified safe for educational use, giving you peace of mind while you create.

What We Like
Quick-drying formula
Highly pigmented
Excellent surface preparation
Safe for educational use
#TOP 10

TotalBoat Marine Grade Wood Sealer

496580
Clear
Quart
TotalBoat Marine Grade Wood Sealer Cover
TotalBoat Wood Sealer - Marine Grade Sanding Sealer and Pre Varnish Primer for Boats and Wood (Quart)

TotalBoat Wood Sealer is a versatile one-part product designed for new or bare wood. It effectively fills and seals the wood grain, providing a smooth surface for varnishing. This sealer also offers UV protection, safeguarding your wood from cracking and ensuring the varnish adheres properly. Applying the sealer is easy, whether you choose to brush, roll, or spray it on. Plus, it dries quickly, allowing you to recoat in just two hours without the hassle of sanding between layers.

What We Like
Easy application methods
Fast drying time
UV protection for wood
Smooth surface for varnish
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you have to paint over primer and sealer?

Yes, it is recommended to paint over primer and sealer. Primers are designed to bond and cover porous surfaces, but they are not made to withstand elements like paint. Leaving primer without a top coat can cause it to deteriorate and break down, often resulting in a chalky appearance.

2. How many coats of primer and sealer?

For a good bond between the new paint and the wall, it is recommended to use 2-3 coats of primer. This also helps to cover up previous colors, especially if they are red, orange, or outdated. In most painting projects, 2 coats of primer are typically needed.

3. Do you use sealer after primer?

Sealers can be used as a substitute for a primer or applied before a primer. Primers are generally used on new surfaces, while sealers are often used on previously painted surfaces. Both serve different purposes and can be used in different situations.

4. Can you put sealer over primer?

Using a sealer over primer is often done when aiming for a smooth and level surface. Sanding the primer can cut through it in some areas, so applying a sealer on top helps to provide a consistent surface before applying the final coats.

5. How long between primer and sealer?

After the primer cures overnight, it is typically sanded before applying one coat of sealer. The sealer needs to dry for about 30 minutes before proceeding with further coats of paint. Follow the instructions provided by the specific product for the best results.

6. Can I just paint with sealer?

Sealer paint can be used as a substitute for a primer or applied before the primer on the base surface. Its main purpose is to provide good adhesion between the substrate and the new paint or primer. However, using both primer and sealer is recommended for better results.

7. How long after primer sealer can you paint?

Most latex primers dry to the touch in 30 minutes to one hour. However, for best results, it is recommended to wait until the primer completely dries, which can take up to 3 hours depending on temperature and humidity. Once the primer is dry, you can proceed with painting.

8. How long before you can paint over primer sealer?

Most latex primers dry to the touch in 30 minutes to one hour. However, it is best to wait until the primer completely dries, which can take up to 3 hours depending on temperature and humidity. Once the primer is fully dry, it is ready for painting.

9. How long to wait after primer sealer?

Most epoxy primers require 30 to 60 minutes to dry. If epoxy (as a primer or sealer) has been allowed to dry for more than a week, it is recommended to wipe the surface with 500-grit sandpaper before painting. Follow the specific product instructions for the best outcome.

Editor's Notes

During our paint primers & sealer research, we found 17 paint primers & sealer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 56,077 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paint primers & sealers list. We found that most customers choose paint primers & sealers with an average price of $19.54.

The paint primers & sealers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paint primers & sealers, including Mod Podge, Liquitex, Ranger, Plaid, Micro-Mark. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.