Best Paint Primers & Sealers of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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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

Rust-Oleum 249321 Automotive Primer Sealer Spray Cover #TOP 1
Rust-Oleum 249321 Automotive Primer Sealer Spray
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Rust-Oleum 5300 Safety Yellow GLOSS 1 GALLON Cover #TOP 2
Rust-Oleum 5300 Safety Yellow GLOSS 1 GALLON
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer Cover #TOP 3
Mod Podge Spray Acrylic Sealer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Paint Primers & Sealers

#TOP 1

Rust-Oleum 249321 Automotive Primer Sealer Spray

249321
Gray
Rust-Oleum 249321 Automotive Primer Sealer Spray Cover
Rust-Oleum 249321 Automotive Primer Sealer Spray, 12 oz, Gray

The Rust-Oleum Primer Sealer Spray is perfect for prepping various surfaces like metal, wood, and fiberglass, making it versatile for many projects. Its special formula helps stop rust and corrosion, so your surfaces last longer, saving you time and money on repairs. It dries quickly, becoming touch-ready in just 10 minutes, which means you can move on with your painting faster. Plus, it covers a good area per can, so you get more done without constantly reapplying. This spray also prevents paint from soaking into the primer, ensuring a smooth and even finish every time.

What We Like
Multi-surface compatibility
Rust prevention formula
Quick drying time
Good coverage area
#TOP 2

Rust-Oleum 5300 Safety Yellow GLOSS 1 GALLON

Clear
Spray (Pack of 1)
Rust-Oleum 5300 Safety Yellow GLOSS 1 GALLON Cover
Zinsser 408 Bulls Eye Shellac Traditional Finish & Sealer Spray, 12 oz, Clear

Get a durable and glossy finish for your household projects with Rust-Oleum 5300 Safety Yellow GLOSS 1 GALLON. The blend material is compatible with resin and can cover up to 12 sq. ft. The gloss finish adds a shiny and smooth appearance to your project, making it stand out. This polyurethane, shellac, and varnish product is a reliable choice for your DIY needs.

What We Like
Durable and glossy finish
Compatible with resin
Covers up to 12 sq. ft.
#TOP 3

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 4

Aleene's Spray Gloss Finish, 6 Oz Acrylic Sealer

26412
Clear - Gloss
6 OZ
Aleene's Spray Gloss Finish, 6 Oz Acrylic Sealer Cover
Aleene's 26412 Spray Gloss Finish, 6 Oz Acrylic Sealer, Original Version, Clear - Gloss

Aleene's Spray Gloss Finish is an acrylic sealer spray that provides a clear and glossy protective finish to virtually any indoor or outdoor project. Its spray-on formula applies easily and evenly, leaving a durable and long-lasting protective coat. The 6 ounce spray can is convenient to use and contains no CFCS, complying with federal regulations.

What We Like
Gives a glossy luster to indoor or outdoor projects
Durable and long-lasting protective finish
Easy and even application with the spray-on formula
#TOP 5

BLUEBIRD Heavy Gesso Primer 28.2 Oz

BB-AG
White
BLUEBIRD Heavy Gesso Primer 28.2 Oz Cover
BLUEBIRD Heavy Gesso Primer for Acrylic Painting, Gesso Surface Prep Medium for Acrylic Paint and Oil Paint (White, 28.2 Oz)

The BLUEBIRD Gesso Primer offers excellent coverage to help you create a smooth, even base for your artwork, making your painting experience more enjoyable. It works well on many surfaces like canvas, wood, and paper, giving you the freedom to experiment with different materials. This primer sticks firmly to your surface, preventing paint from chipping or peeling, so your art stays vibrant longer. Plus, it dries quickly, allowing you to start painting sooner and save time for your creative flow. Whether you’re just starting or have experience, this primer sets a solid foundation for your projects.

What We Like
Superior coverage
Versatile surface use
Strong adhesion
Quick drying
#TOP 6

Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium 64oz White

1041017
White
Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium 64oz White Cover
Liquitex BASICS Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 1.89L (64-oz) Tub, White

The Liquitex BASICS Gesso is designed to prepare your painting surfaces for both acrylic and oil paints, ensuring your artwork has a smooth and receptive base. It is lightweight and non-toxic, making it safe and easy to handle while you work. Once dried, it creates a water-resistant and non-yellowing surface, helping your paintings maintain their original look over time. Additionally, this gesso can be mixed with Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors and Mediums, giving you more flexibility in your creative process.

What We Like
Prepares surfaces for acrylic and oil
Lightweight and non-toxic
Water-resistant and non-yellowing
Compatible with Liquitex paints
#TOP 7

TotalBoat Marine Grade Wood Sealer Gallon

521227
Gallon
TotalBoat Marine Grade Wood Sealer Gallon Cover
TotalBoat Wood Sealer - Marine Grade Sanding Sealer and Pre Varnish Primer for Boats and Wood (Gallon)

The TotalBoat Wood Sealer is a one-part pre-varnish sealer designed to protect and prepare new or bare wood, including tough woods like teak and mahogany. It fills and smooths the wood grain, giving you a perfect base for applying varnish. This sealer also offers strong UV protection, helping prevent cracking and peeling, so your wood stays beautiful longer. Applying it is simple—you can brush, roll, or spray it on, making your project easier. Plus, it dries quickly and doesn't require sanding between coats, saving you time and effort when working on your wood surfaces.

What We Like
Easy application methods
UV protection
Fast drying
No sanding needed
Works on various woods
#TOP 8

Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium 237ml

5308
White
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium 237ml Cover
Liquitex Professional Gesso Surface Prep Medium, 237ml (8-oz), White

The Liquitex Gesso Surface Prep is a versatile product designed to prepare your painting surfaces effectively. It acts as a protective layer that seals your canvas or other materials, ensuring your paint adheres well and lasts longer. You can customize it by tinting with acrylic colors, giving you flexibility in your base coat, but it's important to avoid mixing it with oil paints. This premium acrylic gesso is perfect for priming surfaces for both acrylic and oil painting, often requiring just one coat to create an ideal base. It works on various surfaces, from canvas to metal, adding texture and absorbency to help your paint stick better and improve the quality of your artwork.

What We Like
Surface sealing
Tintable with acrylics
One-coat primer
Works on many surfaces
#TOP 9

Falling in Art White Gesso Primer 16.9 Oz

CT0757
White
Falling in Art White Gesso Primer 16.9 Oz Cover
Falling in Art 16.9 Oz White Gesso Primer for Acrylic Painting for Oil Paints, Non-Toxic Canvas Surface Prep Medium

The Falling in Art White Gesso is a great choice for artists preparing surfaces for painting. It offers excellent coverage, so you can easily create a smooth base that helps your paint stick better. This primer dries quickly, which saves you time between layers. Made from lightweight, non-toxic acrylic, it’s safe to use whether you’re a beginner or experienced painter. Once dry, it forms a flexible, durable surface that works well with both oil and acrylic paints. Plus, it can be applied to many surfaces like canvas, wood, and walls, giving you plenty of creative freedom.

What We Like
Excellent coverage
Quick drying
Non-toxic formula
Flexible and durable finish
Multi-surface use
#TOP 10

The Army Painter Varnish Duo Pack

The Army Painter Varnish Duo Pack Cover
The Army Painter Varnish Duo Pack - Matt and Satin Protective Spray Sealers for Painted Miniatures and Models

The Army Painter Varnish Duo offers you two types of finishes—ultra-matte and satin—so you can pick the perfect look for your miniatures. These varnishes are designed to protect your painted models from damage, helping your hard work last longer. They apply evenly, giving a smooth and consistent cover without hiding any of the fine details you worked so hard to create. Plus, with this advanced formula, you get professional-quality results that keep your miniatures looking great while staying safe from wear and tear.

What We Like
Dual finish options
Strong protective layer
Detail preservation
Even surface coverage
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 24 paint primers & sealer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 265,097 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 $19.21.

The paint primers & sealers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paint primers & sealers, including Rust-Oleum, Zinsser, Mod Podge, Aleene's, BLUEBIRD. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 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.