Lena Rivera
Applying a final varnish to a painting is a crucial step in the creative process, providing protection and enhancing the artwork's aesthetic appeal. Varnishing is a simple yet satisfying process that involves applying a transparent coating to seal and protect the painting from dust, debris, and light damage. It is recommended to use an isolation coat, which acts as a protective barrier between the paint and varnish, allowing for safe varnish removal in the future. The type of varnish, application method, and desired finish are important considerations, with spray and brush applications being the most common. The number of varnish coats can vary, but it is generally recommended to apply at least two thin, even coats to achieve a uniform and polished look.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to apply varnish | At the end of the painting process |
| Isolation coat | Recommended to protect the painting and create an even surface for the final varnish |
| Isolation coat composition | 2 parts Golden Soft Gel Gloss to 1 part water for brush application |
| Isolation coat application | One coat brush applied or two coats spray applied for non-absorbent surfaces |
| Isolation coat application | Sufficient coats to achieve a satin sheen for absorbent surfaces |
| Varnish application | Use a large, flat, commercial painting brush |
| Varnish application | Hold spray varnish 6-12 inches away from the artwork |
| Varnish application | Apply one coat horizontally and one coat vertically |
| Varnish application | Apply thinly and evenly to avoid drips, bubbles, or uneven surfaces |
| Varnish application | Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right varnish
Type of Painting
It is important to select a varnish that is compatible with the paint and medium used in the painting. For acrylic paintings, an acrylic varnish should be used. Acrylic varnishes are available in both brush and spray options. If using a brush, a large, flat, commercial painting brush is recommended to ensure full coverage without the bristles falling out. For oil paintings, an oil varnish is necessary to prevent cracking over time. Some varnishes, such as Soluvar from Liquitex, can be used with both acrylic and oil paintings.
Surface Texture
The surface texture of the painting will influence the choice of varnish application method. If the painting has a lot of texture or is highly impasto, a spray varnish is recommended to avoid pools of varnish settling in the nooks and crannies. For smoother finishes, a brush-on varnish can be suitable.
Isolation Coat
An isolation coat is a preliminary layer applied before the final varnish. It serves as a protective barrier between the paint and the varnish, helping to create an even surface and protect the painting during varnish removal or conservation. The isolation coat is especially important for absorbent surfaces to prevent a cloudy or "frosted" appearance. It is recommended to test the isolation coat on a small area before proceeding with the final varnish.
Finish Type
The desired final appearance of the painting will guide the choice of varnish finish. Varnishes come in various finishes, including gloss, semi-gloss (satin), and matte. Gloss varnishes provide a shiny, high-gloss finish and can enhance the brightness and vibrancy of colours. Satin varnishes offer a middle ground with a semi-gloss finish. Matte varnishes have a non-glossy appearance and can be used to lighten darker values.
Testing
Before applying varnish to the entire painting, it is crucial to test it on a small area or a similar test piece. This will allow you to understand how the varnish performs and alters the surface appearance of the painting. It is also a good idea to practice the varnishing process on test pieces to gain familiarity and confidence.
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Preparing the painting
Preparing a painting for varnishing is a crucial step in the process of sealing and protecting your artwork. Here are the detailed steps to follow for preparing your painting:
Firstly, ensure your painting is completely dry. This is an essential step to prevent smudging when you apply the varnish. Place your dry painting on a horizontal, even surface, such as a table. This will ensure that any drips of varnish will not appear on top of your artwork. It is recommended to work in a dust-free room to avoid any debris settling on the wet varnish.
Next, wipe down the surface of your painting with a lint-free cloth to remove any dust or debris. This step ensures that your painting is clean before you begin the varnishing process. It is important to note that if you are using pastels or chalk, it is advisable to fix them first with a pastel fixative.
Before applying the varnish, you need to decide on the type of varnish and the desired final appearance. The most popular finish is a high-gloss varnish, which can enhance the colours of your painting and give it a shiny look. However, if you prefer a less glossy finish, you can opt for a satin or matte varnish. It is worth noting that the varnish should be compatible with the paint and medium used in your painting to avoid any discolouration or cracking.
Another important consideration is whether to use a brush or spray application for your varnish. Brush application is suitable for smoother finishes, while spray varnish is ideal for delicate multimedia pieces or highly textured works. If you choose to use a brush, select a large, flat, commercial painting brush with sturdy yet flexible bristles to ensure full coverage.
Finally, before applying the varnish, it is recommended to apply an isolation coat, especially if you plan to use a matte varnish. The isolation coat serves as a protective layer between the paint and the varnish, helping to create an even surface and protecting the paint if the varnish needs to be removed in the future. The number of isolation coats required depends on the absorbency of the surface. For non-absorbent surfaces, one coat applied with a brush or two coats applied with a spray are recommended. For absorbent surfaces, you may need two or more brush-applied coats or three or more spray applications to achieve a satin sheen.
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Applying the varnish
Applying varnish to a painting is a delicate process that requires careful consideration and preparation. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying the final varnish to your artwork:
Prepare the Workspace and Painting
Before beginning the varnishing process, ensure your painting is completely dry. Any residual moisture can cause the paint to smudge or mix with the varnish, creating an uneven finish. Next, select a suitable workspace. Place your painting on a horizontal, even surface, such as a table, to prevent drips of varnish from forming on top of your artwork. It is also recommended to work in a dust-free environment to avoid particles adhering to the varnish as it dries.
Choose the Right Varnish and Application Method
The type of varnish and application method will depend on the medium of your painting and the desired finish. For acrylic paintings, use an acrylic varnish, and for oil paintings, use an oil varnish. Using the wrong type of varnish can cause cracking or discolouration over time. You can choose between brush-on or spray varnishes, with spray varnishes being more suitable for delicate or highly textured works.
Apply the Isolation Coat (Optional)
An isolation coat is a permanent, non-removable layer that separates the paint surface from the varnish. It is particularly useful if you plan to remove the varnish in the future, as it protects the paint during the removal process. To apply an isolation coat, use a mixture of gloss medium and varnish with a large paintbrush, ensuring complete coverage of the painting. Allow this coat to dry completely before proceeding.
Apply the Varnish
When applying the varnish, start with a small amount to ensure you don't use too much. If using a brush, opt for a large, flat, sturdy, yet flexible brush to avoid bristles falling out. Apply the varnish in thin, even layers, ensuring you cover the entire surface of the painting. If using a spray varnish, hold the can 5-7 inches away from the painting and spray from one side to the other, spreading the varnish evenly. Apply one coat horizontally and another vertically to ensure full coverage.
Allow the Varnish to Dry
Once you have applied the final coat of varnish, allow it to dry completely. The drying time will vary depending on the type of varnish used, but spray varnishes typically dry within 20 minutes.
By following these steps, you will successfully apply the final varnish to your painting, protecting it and enhancing its appearance.
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Isolation coats
An isolation coat is a permanent, non-removable layer that separates the paint surface from the varnish. It is particularly important if you plan on removing the varnish in the future, as it will protect the paint underneath and make the removal process easier. It also seals absorbent areas, resulting in a more even varnish application and reducing the water sensitivity of the paint surface.
The thickness of the isolation coat and the method of application will depend on the texture of the paint film. For textured paintings, a thicker application is recommended (about 1.5-2.5mm thick) to ensure that the isolation layer reaches any recessed pockets and provides adequate protection for the high points. For a brush application, the appropriate isolating medium can be made by diluting Golden Soft Gel Gloss with water (2 parts by volume Soft Gel Gloss to 1 part water). A spray application can be made by mixing Golden GAC-500 with Transparent Airbrush Extender (2:1 mixture). The absorbency of the surface will dictate the number of isolation layers required. For non-absorbent surfaces, one coat brush-applied or two coats spray-applied are recommended. For more absorbent surfaces, apply sufficient isolation coats to achieve a satin sheen on the surface; this may require two or more brush-applied coats or three or more spray applications.
It is important to note that an isolation coat is not always necessary and is an aesthetic decision that each artist needs to make after sufficient testing. It is a significant and permanent addition to a painting and will inevitably alter the surface qualities. Any mistakes or problems during this procedure cannot be easily corrected, so artists should practice the procedure thoroughly beforehand.
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Drying and finishing
Before you begin the varnishing process, ensure your painting is completely dry. This will prevent any smudging. It is also important to note that the varnish application should never be considered an afterthought. The selection of varnish and the application process must be carefully considered. For instance, the varnish should be compatible with the paint and medium used in the painting; otherwise, it may cause discolouration or cracking. It is recommended to test the varnish on a small area first.
The varnishing process is quite simple. You want to apply two layers of varnish: one vertical and one horizontal. This ensures full coverage without applying too much varnish. Too much varnish can result in an uneven or cloudy appearance. So, the key is to get good, smooth coverage without applying too much. It is recommended to pour a small amount of varnish to start with. You can use a brush or a spray to apply the varnish. If you are using a brush, use a large, flat, commercial painting brush. This allows for a lot of coverage, and the bristles are sturdy enough that you know there won't be any falling out. If you are using a spray varnish, apply it six to twelve inches away from the artwork and spread the varnish evenly.
Ensure your painting is placed on an even surface to prevent drips of varnish on top of your painting. Before moving on to the second coat, make sure the first layer is completely dry. Once the first coat is dry, apply the second coat in the perpendicular direction so that you don't miss any spots, and the whole piece gets an even coat of varnish. Just like with the first layer, the key is to get a thin and even application across the canvas, including the sides. Once your second layer is dry, your piece is finished!
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Frequently asked questions
A varnish coat can help to make the painting look more finished and polished, enhancing its appearance and creating a unified matte or glossy appearance. Varnish also serves to protect the painting from dust, debris, and light damage over time.
The main type of varnish used for paintings is spirit varnishes, which are made from natural or synthetic resins dissolved in a solvent. Varnishes are available in gloss, semi-gloss, and matte finishes. The most popular finish for artists is damar varnish due to its simplicity and high gloss finish.
The varnish is typically applied as the final step of the painting process. It is important to ensure that the painting is completely dry before applying varnish to avoid smudging.
The varnish can be applied using a brush or spray. When using a brush, use a large, flat, commercial painting brush to achieve full coverage. For spray varnish, hold the can 5-7 inches away from the painting and spray from one side to the other, ensuring even coverage. Apply at least two thin coats of varnish, with the first coat applied vertically and the second coat applied horizontally.
Yes, it is important to ensure that the varnish is compatible with the paint and medium used in the painting to avoid discoloration or cracking. It is recommended to test the varnish on a small area or a similar test piece before applying it to the entire painting. Additionally, always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
