Mike, the sealer should be used BEFORE the paint goes on, especially if you are using tan cork----imo, the best acrylic i have found for dekes is Golden Heavy Body Matte---no need to play with it after you finish the paint job---i am in process of rehabbing a group of wileys, and it always amazes me at how well the paint holds up-these were used and abused for MANY years--replaced tails and in one case, a head--painting will begin later this week--Btw, folks also seem to have pretty good luck with Jansen's--i have used it on an experimental basis, and prefer the consistency of the Golden's--it is also available in Gallons!!!