CrystalGel | Rosco

CrystalGel is a clear scenic coating and adhesive medium designed to bond to both soft and rigid substrates commonly used in theatre, film, and event fabrication.

Formulated as a styrene resin for strong adhesion, CrystalGel can be applied thick to hold edges and dimensional details, or thinned slightly for a more liquid consistency. It’s frequently used as a clear “skin,” a primer-like bonding layer on foam and synthetics, and as a carrier for texture additives and decorative effects.

Once dry, CrystalGel can be painted with Rosco Scenic Paints and can also accept added paint, dye, glitter, and mica powders directly in the gel before application.

Designed to create durable, flexible scenic surfaces and strong bonds across many materials.

• Non-toxic, water-based, clear medium that dries to a flexible, translucent film.
• Styrene resin binder delivers exceptional adhesion for a non-oil-based product.
• Adheres to soft surfaces: styrofoam, ethafoam, muslin, fabrics.
• Adheres to rigid surfaces: metal, glass, plastics, wood, Luan, fiberboard.
• Particularly effective on plexiglass (helps avoid cracking/failure).
• Can be painted over with Rosco Scenic Paints once dry.
• Can be carved; can be rolled without cracking, peeling, or sticking.
• Accepts texture and effect additives: sand, sawdust, powdered clay, glitter, mica powders, dyes, paint.

Apply with brush, roller, pastry tube, trowel, tongue depressor, or any convenient tool. Many scenic artists use cake decorating tools or pastry tubes for beading and fine details.

Core handling, coverage, and performance notes for production planning.

A simple workflow that fits most scenic shop processes.

1. Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and free of dust/grease.
2. Stir CrystalGel to a uniform consistency.
3. Apply using your chosen tool (brush, roller, pastry tube, trowel, etc.).
4. If a thinner consistency is required, add water sparingly (max ~10%).
5. Allow to dry (1–8 hours to touch; 24 hours for full cure).
6. Once dry, paint with Rosco Scenic Paints or carve/shape as needed.

Coverage and drying time vary primarily with thickness of application and substrate absorption.

Follow standard shop safety practices and temperature limitations.

• Do not apply when surface or air temperature is below 50°F (10°C).
• Protect unused product against freezing. Freezes and becomes unusable below 32°F (0°C).
• Do not take internally. Keep out of reach of children.
• Use with adequate ventilation.
• Clean tools promptly—cleanup is difficult once fully dried.

Technical data and recommendations are provided as guidance; results depend on method of application and use conditions.

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Compatible scenic system products often paired with CrystalGel.

• FlexBond – Flexible scenic coating/adhesive system for foam and fabrics.
• Tough Prime – Primer solution for scenic substrates.
• Supersaturated Roscopaint – High-strength scenic color for glazes and concentrated tinting.
• FlexCoat® – Flexible topcoat/finish system.
• FoamCoat™ – Protective coating for carved foam props and scenic elements.