RTC Resist turning pink and sticky on acrylic

[Seachel]

Hey all, 

I’m working on a banjo strap and I’m at the stage where I’ve added RTC Sheridan resist over the carved and stamped design before applying the antique gel. However, after applying and drying overnight, the RTC is drying pink and splotchy around the edges on the white acrylic paint, and it’s feeling sticky on those spots compared to everywhere else. Now it’s picking up a lot of dust and debris that’s nearly impossible to wipe off. 

I’ve now stripped and repainted those spot three times, trying very carefully to avoid the edges of the dyed leather around it so it doesn’t pull color, but I woke up this morning to the same results that I’ve been experiencing. 

This is my first project using RTC as I’ve seen it highly recommended as a resist for antiquing over acrylic. I’ve diluted it with just a little bit of water and I’m applying two coats with a brush only on the carved and painted areas, avoiding the dyed background leather because I don’t want the sheen there. I can’t seem to upload pictures because the files are too big, so hopefully my description comes across! I appreciate any suggestions. 
 

[Littlef]

I don't think RTC resist was formulated to go over the top of paint.  Normally a resist is applied to unfinished leather to keep dye and antiquing from absorbing into the leather.     I think both the acrylic paint and the rtc are water based, which is why its bleeding the red from the paint.  Reds are typically pretty potent, and are challenging with bleeding.  This is probably going to take some experimentation.  I think I might experiment with an acrylic varnish on some scrap to see if you can achieve the needing sealing over the top of the paint.  

[Seachel]

Ooh, well that would explain it. I’ve seen some other artists who use it over their acrylic, but I’ve never seen or heard them having any problems like I’m experiencing. Thanks for the suggestion with the acrylic varnish, I’ll pick some of that up and give it a go!