Can I waterproof my alabaster stein to use as a drinking mug?

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on waterproofing an alabaster stein for use as a drinking mug, highlighting the challenges posed by alabaster's water-soluble nature. Participants suggest various methods, including using Thompson's Multi-Purpose Waterproofer, acrylic lacquer, and Envirotex Lite, emphasizing the importance of applying coatings to both the inner and outer surfaces. Concerns about toxicity and taste are raised, particularly regarding the use of acrylic and other sealants. Ultimately, the consensus leans towards using non-toxic acrylic lacquer for a safe and effective waterproofing solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of alabaster properties and limitations
  • Familiarity with waterproofing sealants, specifically Thompson's Multi-Purpose Waterproofer
  • Knowledge of acrylic lacquer and its applications
  • Awareness of safety considerations regarding food-grade materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties and application methods of acrylic lacquer for waterproofing
  • Investigate the safety and effectiveness of Envirotex Lite for use on food-related items
  • Explore alternatives to traditional waterproofing sealants that are food-safe
  • Consult with pottery experts about food-safe coatings for decorative items
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and anyone interested in modifying decorative items for practical use, particularly those concerned with safety and non-toxicity in materials.

IHateMayonnaise
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Hello!

I have an unusual waterproofing question. I recently purchased a rather beautiful stein hand-made out of alabaster (a pliable type of stone). Upon being sold this item, I was repeatedly warned that it is strictly for decoration, and is not designed to retain water (or beer), since alabaster is water-soluble and water will destroy it. So, I am on a quest to see if it viable to somehow waterproof my stein in a way that will be both effective and non-toxic.

In my mind I feel as though the best solution would be melting down some sort of plastic and applying it on the inside, however I am not sure how I would go about doing that. Another option is smearing the inside with multiple coats of some sort of water sealant, such as thompson's multi-purpose waterproofer or something similar. Or possibly some sort of acrylic or latex paint. The question still remains whether or not these will be effective, non-toxic, and also whether or not they'll leave a weird taste.

I know this is a tall order, but I thought Id poke around and see what people have to say. Thanks yall

IHateMayonnaise
 
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Maybe if you coat the inside with mayonnaise...?
 
I would propose Thompson's multi-purpose waterseal, but perhaps better would be acrylic, rather than latex, paint or sealant. Other ideas might be an appropriate expoxy, the kind used to seal or provide a waterproof seal to cement or concrete.
 
Maybe you can put an actual cup inside of it, and then seal the top of the cup to the stein.
 
My first thought would be an acrylic. Not paint, though; more the stuff that they make paperweights and whatnot out of. The only brand that I'm familiar with is Envirotex Lite, but I don't even know whether or not they still make it. I last used it 25 years ago. It's a binary that you mix and then apply. Kind of odd to work with, though.
One thing to mention is that whatever you use, apply it to the entire inner and outer surfaces. Just coating the inside won't do you any good when you have to wash it or spill something when pouring.
 
Danger said:
My first thought would be an acrylic. Not paint, though; more the stuff that they make paperweights and whatnot out of. The only brand that I'm familiar with is Envirotex Lite, but I don't even know whether or not they still make it. I last used it 25 years ago. It's a binary that you mix and then apply. Kind of odd to work with, though.
One thing to mention is that whatever you use, apply it to the entire inner and outer surfaces. Just coating the inside won't do you any good when you have to wash it or spill something when pouring.

They still seem to make Envirotex Lite, not quite sure where to get it though. Is acrylic non-toxic though? I mean, would it leave any sort of funky taste? Also do you know if acrylic would happily bind to natural stone? Thanks everyone for your replies!
 
IHateMayonnaise said:
They still seem to make Envirotex Lite, not quite sure where to get it though.

http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Envirotex+lite (the third link) ;-)

And Danger is right - you have got to coat both inside and out since once you pour a cold drink in it it will "sweat" especially in high humidity.
 
IHateMayonnaise said:
Hello!

I have an unusual waterproofing question. I recently purchased a rather beautiful stein hand-made out of alabaster (a pliable type of stone). Upon being sold this item, I was repeatedly warned that it is strictly for decoration, and is not designed to retain water (or beer), since alabaster is water-soluble and water will destroy it. So, I am on a quest to see if it viable to somehow waterproof my stein in a way that will be both effective and non-toxic.

In my mind I feel as though the best solution would be melting down some sort of plastic and applying it on the inside, however I am not sure how I would go about doing that. Another option is smearing the inside with multiple coats of some sort of water sealant, such as thompson's multi-purpose waterproofer or something similar. Or possibly some sort of acrylic or latex paint. The question still remains whether or not these will be effective, non-toxic, and also whether or not they'll leave a weird taste.

I know this is a tall order, but I thought Id poke around and see what people have to say. Thanks yall

IHateMayonnaise

this stuff
http://www.granitecitytool.com/docs/msds/stonetech/msds_hglacquerwb.pdf
 
Equate said:
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Envirotex+lite (the third link) ;-)

And Danger is right - you have got to coat both inside and out since once you pour a cold drink in it it will "sweat" especially in high humidity.

When I said that I wasnt sure where to get it I wasnt asking for help, just commenting that it is not at home depot/lowe's/ace hardware. For right now I am not so much worried about where to get something as to whether or not it will kill me..

junglebeast said:
this stuff
http://www.granitecitytool.com/docs/msds/stonetech/msds_hglacquerwb.pdf

the MSDS for that stuff scares the bajeesus out of me, otherwise it seems perfect
 
  • #10
junglebeast said:
this stuff
http://www.granitecitytool.com/docs/msds/stonetech/msds_hglacquerwb.pdf

:eek:
The warnings for that stuff scare the hell out of me. I don't think that I'd trust it to not leech at least a tiny bit into the cup's contents.
IHM, acrylic is completely non-toxic and tasteless, at least once hardened. I have a coffee cup and several glasses made entirely of it. Essentially, it's Plexiglass.
 
  • #11
Danger said:
:eek:
The warnings for that stuff scare the hell out of me. I don't think that I'd trust it to not leech at least a tiny bit into the cup's contents.
IHM, acrylic is completely non-toxic and tasteless, at least once hardened. I have a coffee cup and several glasses made entirely of it. Essentially, it's Plexiglass.

Right, well that's what I was hoping. But my question is whether or not the acrylic goo that I can get at Home Depot/Lowe's has the exact same non-toxic qualities as the acrylic we receive from factories. hmm?
 
  • #12
I don't think you want acrylic goo...you want acrylic lacquer. It's clear, durable, water insoluble..the same stuff used to finish cars and wood tables. I wouldn't expect it to be dissolving in beer. Apply by spray.
 
  • #13
junglebeast said:
I don't think you want acrylic goo...you want acrylic lacquer. It's clear, durable, water insoluble..the same stuff used to finish cars and wood tables. I wouldn't expect it to be dissolving in beer. Apply by spray.

hmmm well the stein has somewhat of an awkward shape, might be best to get it in liquid form rather than spray. Anywho Ill do it and see what happens, thanks everyone! (feel free to throw in some more comments though :))

IHateMayonnaise
 
  • #14
I don't know what would be safe. I'd be very hesitant to pick up anything at your local hardware store if it doesn't specifically say it's food grade or safe on food processing surfaces.

One thing that does come to mind as a possibility is that you might inquire at a pottery shop...a place where they make pottery, not just where you buy it. While the glazes used on pottery are usually baked on, maybe there's something they use that doesn't need to be baked on and is safe for food.
 
  • #15
I guess I am just an unimaginative wet blanket. Why not set it on the shelf as a decoration and get a stein made to drink out of. You will only degrade the decorative value of the stein and still not have a decent drinking mug.
 

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