"liquitex matte medium drying white?" Topic

Per various recommendations, I used Liquitex Matte Medium to attach static grass and clump foliage to some bases (supposed to be strong like PVA, but won't yellow over time). First I brushed it on un-thinned to attach things, then some hours later I dropped a few thinned drops (~50/50 distilled water/medium) over the top to bind it all together.

The problem is, there are now rings of white color around everything, and white/cloudy color throughout the clumps of grass. It's as if the matte medium has either dried white, or could it be too thick? I've given it several days to dry, but no change.

I asked at the local art store (where I bought the medium), who said it could be trapped air bubbles, and to poke it with a needle and give it more time. I tried that, but it didn't seem to have any effect.

I'll try to post a photo later.

Any ideas or suggestions?

I've had that problem when I add water to the medium.

Usually if I use it neat it dries OK.

For what it's worth, I use white glue or wood glue to attach foliage/grass to bases, and I've never had a problem with yellowing. Maybe it does turn slightly yellow, but I can't even tell. I've had some of my models over 20 years.

I also use wood glue for attaching both sand for texture as well as static grass. I thin it as well, no specific ratio, but until it flows like paint.

Damon.

Salibaba: Ok, so it's not just me. Is there any way to make it become transparent, or should I try to paint/flock over it?

Mod Podge Matte is your friend. I use it diluted 50-50 with water (to break surface tension) to attach static grass, foliage etc. No white or foggy rings and hasn't yellowed after 15 years.

Mod Podge is the best! It dries flat flat and flat. If any of your flock falls off you won't get that shiny look other glues can cause. Used it for 10 years and find it very durable. Apply it straight without watering it down.

If it doesn't dry clear eventually, maybe hide it with a dark stain to match your ground surface?

Maybe try a bit of pure medium on top of the white circles and see if it takes them away?

I used Liquitex Matte Medium when I first started painting and it turned anything I painted grass green…yellow. Never went back to it.

Try using distilled water.
80% matte medium
20% distilled water
1 drop liquid dishwashing soap.

SHAKE after every use. The heavier glue will sink to the bottom so be sure to mix it up.

I've used this formula for 25 + years and never had a single piece turn yellow.