10 Best High Gloss Finishes: Perfect for Your Projects

What are the best high gloss finishes? Based on real users’ engaging experiences, I’m offering a list of 10 top options to help you choose the perfect one for your projects.

High gloss finishes can make your projects look amazing. They add a beautiful shine and protect your work. Finding the right one is key to a perfect finish.

There are many high-gloss products available. These finishes work on different surfaces, like wood, acrylic, and leather. Choosing the best one can be tricky.

Many users rave about the professional look these finishes give. I’ve gathered the best options to help you choose. Let’s find the perfect high-gloss finish for your needs!

List of Top 10 High Gloss Finishes

Image Title Best For Price
Liquitex Professional High Gloss Varnish, 237ml (8-oz) Liquitex Professional High Gloss Varnish, 237ml (8-oz)

This high-gloss varnish is perfect for professional artists who use acrylic paints to create lasting art. It also fits well for teachers and students in art classes who need a safe, easy-to-use protector for their paintings.

General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat, 1 Quart, Gloss General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat, 1 Quart, Gloss

Perfect for DIYers and woodworkers who want a strong, long lasting indoors finish. It dries fast and you can add coats in 1 to 2 hours, for good protection on light colors.

Krylon I00500A07 12-Ounce Triple Thick Clear Glaze Aerosol Spray,High-Gloss Krylon I00500A07 12-Ounce Triple Thick Clear Glaze Aerosol Spray,High-Gloss

This Krylon spray is perfect for crafters and artists. It gives a shiny and strong finish in just one coat.

MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist's Acrylic Varnish, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist’s Acrylic Varnish, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

This varnish is perfect for professional artists and hobby painters. It gives a high gloss, keeps colors from yellowing, and protects your art for a long time.

GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist's Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 100 ML (3.38 fl oz) GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 100 ML (3.38 fl oz)

This varnish is perfect for pro artists who want a shiny, lasting finish on their works. It’s also ideal for hobby painters and kids looking to protect acrylic art in a safe, easy way.

Miracle Sealants High-Gloss Finish Sealer for Tile & Stone, Water-Based, Quart Miracle Sealants High-Gloss Finish Sealer for Tile & Stone, Water-Based, Quart

Want a shiny finish? This sealer is perfect for you! It gives your indoor tile and stone a super glossy look that really pops.

Angelus Brand Acrylic Leather Paint High Gloss Finisher No. 610 - 4oz, Packaging may vary Angelus Brand Acrylic Leather Paint High Gloss Finisher No. 610 – 4oz, Packaging may vary

This high-gloss finisher is perfect for artists and leather workers who want to seal and shine their custom designs. It works great for DIY projects on jackets, bags, or boots, giving a smooth, uniform finish that lasts without cracks or streaks.

Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist's Acrylic Varnish Kit, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist’s Acrylic Varnish Kit, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

This gloss varnish is perfect for professional artists and hobby painters who love acrylic work. It keeps your paintings safe, shiny, and full of color for a long time.

GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist's Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 200 ML (6.76 fl oz) GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 200 ML (6.76 fl oz)

This varnish is perfect for pro artists, hobby painters, and kids who want a clear, high-gloss finish. It’s non-toxic and protects art from yellowing and crazing.

COLOR WOW Pop + Lock High Gloss Finish – Frizz Control Serum | Prevent Color Fade, Seal Split Ends, and Add Gloss | Get Silky, Shiny Hair! COLOR WOW Pop + Lock High Gloss Finish – Frizz Control Serum | Prevent Color Fade, Seal Split Ends, and Add Gloss | Get Silky, Shiny Hair!

Pop + Lock is perfect for people with frizzy hair who want a shiny finish. It is ideal for those who dye their hair and need UV protection to keep color bright.

Detailed Reviews

This guide picks the top 10 High Gloss Finishes by mixing expert views with real user feedback. Each one gets a full review on its best features, how it works, and what you get for the price. Trust this as your perfect help to find a shine that fits your art or home needs—just read on for the right choice.

1. Liquitex Professional High Gloss Varnish, 237ml (8-oz)

Liquitex Professional High Gloss Varnish, 237ml (8-oz)

Discover the Liquitex Professional High Gloss Varnish in a 237ml bottle. It gives your art a bright, shiny finish that protects it for a long time.
This varnish stays clear and mixes well with other Liquitex paints. It dries to a strong, flexible layer that resists water. It meets safety standards for easy classroom use.

Pros Cons
  • Archival quality protects your art for years.
  • Provides a dazzling gloss finish.
  • Non-toxic and safe for everyone.
  • Water-resistant when dry, protecting your art.
  • Permanent, non-removable finish; hard to fix mistakes
  • Requires careful application to avoid streaks
  • Glossy glare possible in bright light

Perfect For:

This high-gloss varnish is perfect for professional artists who use acrylic paints to create lasting art. It also fits well for teachers and students in art classes who need a safe, easy-to-use protector for their paintings.

Ready to Purchase?

2. General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat, 1 Quart, Gloss

General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat, 1 Quart, Gloss

This is the General Finishes High Performance Water Based Topcoat in a 1-quart bottle. It gives a gloss finish and strong protection for wood.

Avoid clear coats on bright white paint; yellowing can happen. Dry time between coats is 1 to 2 hours.

This product is for interior use only. Apply thin coats. Let each coat dry before the next.

Pros Cons
  • Durable, hardwearing topcoat.
  • Water-based formula, easy cleanup.
  • Fast 1–2 hr dry time between coats.
  • Interior-use only, low odor.
  • Glossy finish, vibrant look.
  • Yellowing may occur on bright white and light paints
  • Interior use only – avoid outdoor exposure
  • Need to test on substrates to prevent color reactions

Perfect For:

Perfect for DIYers and woodworkers who want a strong, long lasting indoors finish. It dries fast and you can add coats in 1 to 2 hours, for good protection on light colors.

Ready to Purchase?

3. Krylon I00500A07 12-Ounce Triple Thick Clear Glaze Aerosol Spray,High-Gloss

Krylon I00500A07 12-Ounce Triple Thick Clear Glaze Aerosol Spray,High-Gloss

Get ready to give your projects a stunning finish with Krylon’s Triple Thick Clear Glaze! This amazing spray provides a durable and beautiful shine. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to protect and enhance their work.

One coat of this glaze does the job of three! It creates an extra high gloss that lasts. Your projects will look professional and polished.

This glaze works on many surfaces. Use it on polymer clay, bisque, plaster, and more. It’s a permanent and protective finish you can trust.

Pros Cons
  • Get a triple-thick finish with just one coat!
  • Enjoy a permanent, protective and glossy look.
  • It’s perfect for polymer clay, bisque, and plaster.
  • Achieve an extra high gloss without any firing needed.
  • Strong odor from chemicals
  • Spray can feel wasteful quickly
  • High gloss might look too shiny

Perfect For:

This Krylon spray is perfect for crafters and artists. It gives a shiny and strong finish in just one coat.

Ready to Purchase?

4. MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist’s Acrylic Varnish, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

MCTRHG Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist's Acrylic Varnish, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish, for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

Give your artwork the protection it deserves with MCTRHG Gloss Varnish. This varnish seals and protects your paintings. It keeps them safe from dust and UV rays.

It gives a permanent high gloss finish. The varnish dries quickly and clearly. Your art will look vibrant for a long time.

This varnish is easy to use on many surfaces. It is safe for your art. You will love the results!

Pros Cons
  • Seals and protects your artwork long-term from UV and dust.
  • Creates a high gloss shine without any brush marks.
  • Dries fast and clear without harming the paint surface.
  • Works great on many surfaces like canvas and wood.
  • We guarantee your satisfaction or offer a full refund.
  • Drying time varies with temperature.
  • Brush marks may appear if thickly applied.
  • Ventilation required during use.

Perfect For:

This varnish is perfect for professional artists and hobby painters. It gives a high gloss, keeps colors from yellowing, and protects your art for a long time.

Ready to Purchase?

5. GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 100 ML (3.38 fl oz)

GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist's Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 100 ML (3.38 fl oz)

This v-varnish gives your art a super shiny finish. It is non-yellowing and stays clear over time. Pro artists and kids both love it.

The varnish works well on many types of paint. It stops the paint from cracking. Use it to protect your artwork from harm.

Buy this varnish today for great value. It is made in India and comes in a 100 ML bottle. Try it now to see the shine.

Pros Cons
  • Crystal high-gloss finish that lasts.
  • Non-yellowing protection for all artworks.
  • Non-toxic; safe for all ages.
  • Anti-crazing shield for lasting look.
  • Affordable protection for premium results.
  • May need multiple coats for deep gloss
  • Small 100 ml bottle may run out quick
  • Not suitable for heavy outdoor exposure

Perfect For:

This varnish is perfect for pro artists who want a shiny, lasting finish on their works. It’s also ideal for hobby painters and kids looking to protect acrylic art in a safe, easy way.

Ready to Purchase?

6. Miracle Sealants High-Gloss Finish Sealer for Tile & Stone, Water-Based, Quart

Miracle Sealants High-Gloss Finish Sealer for Tile & Stone, Water-Based, Quart

This water-based sealer shields your tile and stone floors from everyday wear. It creates a bright high-gloss shine that makes rooms pop with style.

The formula provides strong coverage to keep surfaces safe from stains and spills. It stays clear under sunlight and uses low VOCs for clean indoor air.

Mix well before use. Spread evenly on dry surfaces. Enjoy a lasting glossy finish that protects your home.

Pros Cons
  • High-Gloss finish for a stunning look.
  • Superior coverage protects your surfaces.
  • Low VOC for a safer environment.
  • U.V. Transparent to preserve the natural look.
  • Perfect for interior tile and stone.
  • Indoor only use limits protection outdoors.
  • Quart size may require refills for large jobs.
  • High-gloss finish can appear slippery if wet.

Perfect For:

Want a shiny finish? This sealer is perfect for you! It gives your indoor tile and stone a super glossy look that really pops.

Ready to Purchase?

7. Angelus Brand Acrylic Leather Paint High Gloss Finisher No. 610 – 4oz, Packaging may vary

Angelus Brand Acrylic Leather Paint High Gloss Finisher No. 610 - 4oz, Packaging may vary

Give your leather art a professional touch. The Angelus Brand Acrylic Leather Paint High Gloss Finisher seals in your work. It creates a smooth, shiny surface that lasts.

This finisher is easy to use. You can apply it with a rag, brush, or spray. It won’t rub off, crack, or peel once it dries.

It’s simple to clean up with soap and water. Get a uniform, high-gloss finish every time.

Pros Cons
  • Seals leather art with a durable high gloss finish.
  • Cleans up easily with soap and water.
  • Won’t rub off, crack, or peel once dry.
  • Gives a smooth, uniform shine over different finishes.
  • Applies fast with rag, sponge, brush, or spray.
  • Dries slowly, takes time to fully set.
  • High gloss shine might look too shiny.
  • Cleanup messy if not rinsed right away.

Perfect For:

This high-gloss finisher is perfect for artists and leather workers who want to seal and shine their custom designs. It works great for DIY projects on jackets, bags, or boots, giving a smooth, uniform finish that lasts without cracks or streaks.

Ready to Purchase?

8. Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist’s Acrylic Varnish Kit, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

Gloss Varnish for Acrylic Painting, Artist's Acrylic Varnish Kit, Non-Yellowing, Non-Toxic, Anti-Crazing, High Gloss Finish for Artwork, Acrylics Paint, Suitable for Pro Artists, Hobby Painter

Gloss Varnish seals your acrylic paintings with a bright shine. It protects art from dust and UV rays. This varnish stays clear and does not yellow over time.

You get a high gloss finish that looks rich and even. It dries fast without brush marks or damage to your paint.

Use it on canvas, wood, or DIY projects with ease. We back it with a full satisfaction guarantee.

Pros Cons
  • Protects artworks from dust, UV, and yellowing.
  • Delivers high gloss without brush marks.
  • Dries fast to a clear, flexible surface.
  • Guarantees satisfaction with full refund policy.
  • Easy to apply on various art projects.
  • Price can be high for hobbyists
  • Ventilation required during use
  • Dust shows on glossy surface

Perfect For:

This gloss varnish is perfect for professional artists and hobby painters who love acrylic work. It keeps your paintings safe, shiny, and full of color for a long time.

Ready to Purchase?

9. GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 200 ML (6.76 fl oz)

GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist's Varnish | High Gloss Finish | Non-Yellowing | Non-Toxic | Anti-Crazing | for Pro Artists, Hobby Painters & Kids | Made in India | 200 ML (6.76 fl oz)

GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish gives your art a high gloss finish that shines bright. It stays non-yellowing and protects your work for years.
You can use it on many kinds of paints and finishes. It’s non-toxic, so it’s safe for everyone. This makes it easy to seal your projects.
The varnish is affordable and works well with other brands. It adds a protective shield to keep your art looking great.

Pros Cons
  • High gloss finish shines your art bright.
  • Non-yellowing varnish keeps colors looking fresh.
  • Anti-crazing protection prevents cracks on paint.
  • Non-toxic formula is safe for all ages.
  • Crystal clear sheen boosts your artwork appeal.
  • Small 200 ml bottle may run out fast.
  • No drying time listed; plan for curing.
  • Requires even application to avoid streaks.

Perfect For:

This varnish is perfect for pro artists, hobby painters, and kids who want a clear, high-gloss finish. It’s non-toxic and protects art from yellowing and crazing.

Ready to Purchase?

10. COLOR WOW Pop + Lock High Gloss Finish – Frizz Control Serum | Prevent Color Fade, Seal Split Ends, and Add Gloss | Get Silky, Shiny Hair!

COLOR WOW Pop + Lock High Gloss Finish – Frizz Control Serum | Prevent Color Fade, Seal Split Ends, and Add Gloss | Get Silky, Shiny Hair!

Color Wow Pop + Lock High Gloss Finish is a frizz control serum that fights color fade and seals split ends. It locks down your hair cuticle for a sparkling shine.
This product shields your hair from UV rays and provides strong heat protection. The glossing formula smooths frizz right away, on wet or dry hair.
Get silky, shiny locks every day.
Seal your split ends now.
Fight color fade today.

Pros Cons
  • Glossy finish locks in shine instantly.
  • Color fade protection guards hair against UV daily.
  • Heat protection with three levels keeps hair safe.
  • Frizz control smooths wet or dry hair.
  • Seals split ends and adds shine.
  • May feel heavy on fine hair.
  • Can cause build-up with frequent use.
  • Pricey compared to some other serums.

Perfect For:

Pop + Lock is perfect for people with frizzy hair who want a shiny finish. It is ideal for those who dye their hair and need UV protection to keep color bright.

Ready to Purchase?

Buying Guide

High gloss makes work pop. It looks clean and sharp. It also protects the surface.

Real users say a good high-gloss finish made their wood, canvas, or leather look like a pro job. Many report the shine hides small flaws and makes colors pop. Others note the finish keeps surfaces easy to wipe clean.

  • Surface compatibility: Check if the finish works on wood, acrylic, leather, stone, or tile. Using the wrong type can cause peeling or poor shine.
  • Dry time: Know how fast it dries. Faster dries save time. Slow-dry can level better but needs longer cure time.
  • Durability: Look for water resistance, scratch resistance, and UV protection. Strong durability keeps the gloss long-term.
  • Yellowing resistance: Pick non-yellowing formulas for whites and bright colors. This keeps the finish clear over time.
  • Application method: Choose spray, brush-on, or wipe-on. Sprays give smooth coats; brush-on lets you control coverage.
  • Coat coverage: Check how many coats are needed for full gloss. Fewer coats save time. Some products are triple-thick for one-coat shine.
  • Finish level: Confirm it is high gloss and not satin or semi-gloss. Gloss levels change the final look a lot.
  • Compatibility with paint: Make sure it mixes or follows the paint brand if needed. Some varnishes work best with specific paints.
  • Flexibility: For items that bend (like leather), pick a flexible finish. Rigid finishes can crack on flexible surfaces.
  • Toxicity and VOCs: Look for non-toxic and low-VOC labels for indoor use. Safer formulas are better for home and classroom use.
  • Indoor vs outdoor use: Check if it is for interior use only or rated for exterior conditions. Outdoor use needs stronger weather protection.
  • Ease of clean-up: Water-based finishes often clean up with soap and water. Solvent-based may need special cleaners.
  • Anti-crazing / anti-cracking: Choose formulations labeled anti-crazing for thick paint layers. This prevents tiny cracks over time.
  • Finish permanence: Some sprays and varnishes claim to be permanent. Know if you want a removable or lasting seal.
  • Sheen consistency: Good products dry evenly without brush marks or clouding. This gives a smooth, mirror-like finish.
  • Size and value: Match bottle or can size to project scale. Larger projects need bigger containers for better value.
  • Brand reputation: Read user reviews for real experiences. Trusted brands tend to have more consistent results.
  • Safety standards: For schools or workshops, pick products that meet common safety standards. This keeps group work safer.
  • Price vs quality: Higher price can mean better clarity and longevity. Balance budget with how long you want the finish to last.
  • Instructions and support: Clear instructions help avoid mistakes. Good brands offer guidance on prep and coats.

Quick tips:
– Apply thin coats. Thin coats dry smooth and reduce drips.
– Test first on a scrap piece. This avoids surprises on the main project.
– Sand lightly between coats if needed. This helps adhesion and smoothness.