GOLDEN GAC 100 Acrylic Polymer (32 oz.) Instruction Manual

Introduction to GOLDEN GAC 100 Acrylic Polymer

GOLDEN GAC 100 is a specialty acrylic polymer emulsion designed to be used as a versatile medium or modifier for acrylic paints. It is formulated to extend acrylic colors, regulate transparency, create glazes, increase gloss, reduce paint viscosity, and improve both adhesion and film integrity. This polymer can also be utilized for binding pigment solids to achieve various effects and prepare different surfaces for painting.

Unlike other GOLDEN Mediums and Gels, GAC Acrylic Polymers contain only minimal amounts of thickeners, levelers, defoamers, and surfactants, ensuring excellent film formation. The consistency of GAC polymers is more fluid and thin compared to other GOLDEN Mediums, which allows them to reduce the thickness of most GOLDEN Acrylic Paints. While GOLDEN Fluid Acrylics are slightly thicker than GACs, adding a GAC polymer will result in less significant changes in their viscosity.

Image: Red pigment being mixed with a clear liquid medium, demonstrating the product's use as an extender.

Product Features and Benefits

• Dilutes and Extends Colors: Enhances flexibility and film integrity of acrylic paints.
• Improved Pigment Wetting: Wets out pigments more readily than many other polymers, aiding in smooth mixing.
• Economical Option: Provides an efficient way for artists to extend their paints or create custom formulations.
• Enhanced Durability: Contributes to the longevity and resilience of painted surfaces.
• Versatile Primer: Acts as an excellent clear primer for various surfaces.

Setup and Preparation

GAC 100 is a highly versatile acrylic primer and extender. Before application, ensure your workspace is clean and well-ventilated. Prepare your chosen surface (e.g., canvas, wood panel, paper) by ensuring it is free of dust, grease, or other contaminants.

As a Primer/Sealer:

Apply GAC 100 directly to porous surfaces such as raw canvas, wood panels, or paper. This creates a clear, protective barrier that prevents support-induced discoloration (SID) and improves paint adhesion. Apply in thin, even coats using a brush. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying subsequent layers or gesso.

Mixing with Acrylic Colors:

GAC 100 can be mixed directly with any acrylic paint to modify its properties. Start with small amounts and gradually add more to achieve the desired consistency, transparency, or gloss. It is particularly effective for thinning heavy body paints to a more brushable consistency without compromising film integrity.

Image: GOLDEN GAC 100 Acrylic Polymer 32 oz bottle.

Operating and Application

GAC 100 is a general-purpose acrylic polymer that dries to a glossy, flexible, and non-tacky film. Its primary uses include:

• Sealing Porous Surfaces: Apply 1-2 coats to raw canvas or wood to prevent oil absorption and support-induced discoloration.
• Extending Acrylic Paints: Mix with acrylic colors to increase volume, enhance transparency for glazes, and improve flow without significant loss of film strength.
• Improving Adhesion: Can be used as an additive to improve the adhesion of acrylic paints to various surfaces.
• Creating Glazes: Its clear, glossy finish makes it ideal for creating transparent glazes when mixed with acrylic colors.

For detailed visual instructions and demonstrations on GAC 100 and other GOLDEN fluid mediums, please refer to the official product video below.

Other GAC Mediums (as seen in video):

While this manual focuses on GAC 100, the GOLDEN GAC line offers specialized mediums for various needs:

• GAC 200: A hard acrylic extender for non-porous surfaces like metal or glass, reducing tackiness.
• GAC 400: A fabric stiffening medium for natural fibers.
• GAC 500: A gloss extender specifically for fluid acrylic colors, maintaining viscosity.
• GAC 800: A low-crazing extender for pouring acrylic colors, drying to a smooth, glossy surface.
• GAC 900: A heat-set fabric painting medium that improves the launderability of acrylic colors on fabric after heat treatment.

Maintenance and Storage

To ensure the longevity of your GAC 100 and maintain its quality:

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed after each use to prevent drying.
• Cleaning: Clean brushes and tools immediately after use with soap and water. Dried acrylic mediums are permanent.
• Shelf Life: While acrylic polymers have a long shelf life, it is best to use them within a few years of purchase for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting

• Crazing (Cracks/Rips): GAC 100, like other fluid mediums, can craze (develop rips, tears, or valleys) if applied too thickly, especially when pouring. It is recommended to apply GAC 100 in thin layers rather than thick pours to avoid this issue.
• Poor Adhesion: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of any contaminants before applying GAC 100. For non-porous or challenging surfaces, consider using specialized GAC mediums like GAC 200 for improved adhesion.
• Cloudiness/Lack of Transparency: If the medium appears cloudy after drying, it might be due to excessive humidity during drying or improper mixing ratios with paint. Ensure adequate ventilation and allow for proper drying times.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information or technical support regarding GOLDEN GAC 100 Acrylic Polymer, please contact GOLDEN Artist Colors directly through their official website or customer service channels. Product quality and performance are subject to proper storage and application as outlined in this manual.

Manufacturer: Golden Artist Colors

Website: www.goldenpaints.com (Please check the manufacturer's website for the most current contact and support information.)