Leo Martínez
Acrylic paintings can be sealed using a variety of products, including varnishes, sprays, and glazes. The type of coating you use will depend on the surface you are painting on, the desired finish, and the level of protection needed. For example, if your painting will be hung outdoors or in direct sunlight, it is important to use a UV-resistant sealer to protect it from fading. If you plan to sell your artwork or display it in a place where it may be subjected to wear and tear, it is a good idea to add a protective coat.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To protect the painting, give it a fresh and professional look, and prevent yellowing over time. |
| Protection | Varnish coats protect the painting from UV rays, dust, and other natural elements that can alter the artwork. |
| Types of Varnish | Acrylic resin varnish, acrylic polymer varnish, clear sealer, mod podge, spray varnish, gloss varnish, satin varnish, matte varnish, and acrylic glaze. |
| Application Methods | Brush-on, spray-on, or pour and use a flat brush or foam brush. |
| Brands | Liquitex, Winsor & Newton, Krylon, and GOLDEN. |
| Isolation Coats | An isolation coat is applied before varnish to prevent smearing. It can also be skipped if short on time. |
| Drying Time | At least 30-60 minutes for brush-on applications. Spray varnishes dry within 20 minutes. |
| Number of Coats | Two coats are recommended, with the second coat applied after the first coat dries completely. |
| Surfaces | Varnishes can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including canvas, paper, metal, and fabric. |
| Sheen Level | Artists can mix different types of varnishes (gloss, satin) to achieve their desired sheen level. |
| Display | If displaying outdoors, use a sealer with "UV resistant" on the label to prevent fading. |
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What You'll Learn
Spray varnish vs. brush varnish
When it comes to protecting your finished acrylic paintings, you can use either spray varnish or brush varnish. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice for you will depend on factors such as the size of your painting, your preferred finish, and your work environment.
Spray varnish is often favoured for larger paintings as it is easier to apply to big surfaces and can be done more quickly than brush varnish. It also tends to produce a more even finish, without the brushstrokes that can occur when using a brush. For this reason, spray varnish is a good option if you are looking for a perfectly smooth finish. However, one drawback of spray varnish is that it can have a strong smell, which may be problematic if you are working in a small space.
Brush varnish, on the other hand, is typically used for smaller paintings. It can be applied with a brush, roller, or foam brush, and it is important to work relatively quickly to avoid air bubbles forming in the varnish. Brush varnish gives you more control over the application process, allowing you to build up thin layers and achieve the desired level of sheen. It is also a good option if you are working in a small space, as it does not produce strong fumes like spray varnish.
When choosing between spray and brush varnish, it is also worth considering the finish you want to achieve. Both options are available in a range of finishes, including semi-gloss, satin, and matte. However, spray varnish may offer more flexibility in terms of achieving the exact sheen you want, as it is easier to mix different finishes together when spraying.
In terms of specific products, popular choices for spray varnish include Winsor and Newton, Grumbacher Hyplar Gloss Varnish Spray, and Blair Matte Spray Varnish. For brush varnish, artists often use gloss or satin varnish, either on its own or mixed with other finishes to create a custom sheen.
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Varnish alternatives
When it comes to finishing an acrylic painting, there are several alternatives to consider besides varnish. Here are some options to explore:
Isolation Coats
Applying an isolation coat is an essential step before varnishing your acrylic painting. It provides an even sheen and a glass-like surface for the varnish to glide on smoothly. An isolation coat is typically done with a gloss medium, and once dry, you can choose your desired varnish finish, such as matte, satin, or gloss. This technique ensures that the varnish does not soak into the canvas, allowing you to maintain the desired aesthetic of your artwork.
Acrylic Glaze
Acrylic glazes are essentially translucent paint that can give your artwork a transformative, life-like appearance. They tend to be watery, so careful application is necessary. Acrylic glazes offer different finish options and can be applied with a brush or sprayed on, depending on your preference.
Acrylic Mediums
Hard acrylic mediums can be used as a final clear topcoat, especially when painting on rigid panels. While they may not offer the same level of protection as isolation coats followed by removable varnish, they are still effective in preventing the accumulation of dust and other particles.
Mod Podge
Mod Podge is a versatile sealant that can be used to seal acrylic paint on various surfaces, including paper, metal, and even fabrics. It is non-toxic, non-flammable, and easy to clean up with soap and water. Mod Podge offers different finishes and can be applied with a brush or sprayed on, making it a convenient and popular choice for artists.
Framing
Another alternative to varnishing is to frame your acrylic painting behind glass or fibreglass. This option provides protection for your artwork and ensures its longevity. However, framing can be more expensive, especially if your artwork is on a stretched canvas.
Remember, the choice of whether or not to varnish and which alternative to choose depends on your personal preferences, the surface you are painting on, and the desired finish for your artwork.
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Isolation coats
An isolation coat is a permanent, clear, non-removable coating that separates the acrylic paint surface from the varnish. It serves two purposes: sealing any absorbent areas to create an even surface for the varnish and protecting the painting when the varnish is removed by separating the pigmented area from the solvents used.
GOLDEN Acrylics offers several gels that are suitable for isolation coats, including Clear Leveling Gel, Soft Gel Gloss, and Gloss UV Topcoat. Soft Gel Gloss is softer than regular gel and won't hold sharp textures, but it will still show brush strokes. Gloss UV Topcoat is a regular gel with added UV light stabilising ingredients to protect colours from fading.
It is recommended to use gloss mediums during the painting process, as they can be beneficial for creating an even surface. When applying an isolation coat, use a clean brush dedicated only to varnish to avoid any unwanted residue.
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$14.96
Glossy vs. matte
When it comes to choosing between a glossy and a matte finish for your acrylic painting, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of finish can affect the overall appearance of the painting, including the saturation and depth of the colours. A glossy finish will enhance the vibrancy of the colours, making them appear more saturated and deepening their values. On the other hand, a matte finish dries to a flat finish, reducing the likelihood of distracting glare from lights reflecting off the surface. This flatter finish can also help to create a more seamless transition between areas of opacity and translucency in the painting.
Another consideration is the surface you are painting on. If you are working on canvas, you can choose between an acrylic resin varnish, which will give a glossy finish, or an acrylic polymer varnish. Resin varnishes tend to be stronger and clearer than polymer varnishes, but they may require an isolation coat to be applied first to avoid a cloudy appearance. If you are painting on a variety of surfaces, such as paper, metal, or fabric, a versatile option is to use a sealant like Mod Podge, which offers a range of finishes and can be applied with a brush or spray.
The application method is another important factor. Varnishes can be applied with a brush or sprayed on, and both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Spray varnishes can be convenient and help avoid brush strokes, but they may have strong odours that can be challenging to work with in small spaces. Brush-on varnishes allow for more control and precision but may require more time and practice to achieve a smooth finish.
Additionally, cost may be a factor in your decision. Matte medium tends to be less expensive than gloss medium, which can be a significant consideration when using large quantities.
Ultimately, the choice between a glossy and matte finish depends on the specific effects you want to achieve, the surface you are working on, your preferred application method, and your budget. Both options can effectively protect your painting and enhance its overall appearance, so it's a matter of personal preference and the artistic vision for your work.
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UV protection
When you have finished an acrylic painting, it is important to consider sealing it with varnish to protect it from damage and ensure its longevity. Varnish will protect your artwork from UV rays, preventing colour fading and improving lightfastness.
There are several types of varnish to choose from, depending on the desired finish and the surface you are painting on. For canvas paintings, you can choose between acrylic resin varnish and acrylic polymer varnish. Resin varnishes give a glossy finish and tend to be stronger and clearer than polymer varnishes. However, an isolation coat must be applied before the varnish to avoid a cloudy appearance.
If you are looking for a varnish with UV protection, there are several options available. Lascaux UV Protect Spray Varnish is a popular choice, providing protection from UV rays, dust, and other pollutants. It is available in gloss, semi-matte, and matte finishes. Another option is the Winsor & Newton Artists' Acrylic UV Varnishes, which protect artwork from dirt, grease, pollution, fading, and colour shift. You can also find UV-protectant varnishes from brands like GOLDEN and Krylon Archival, which offer gloss, satin, and matte finishes.
In addition to spray varnishes, you can also apply varnish with a brush. This method allows you to control the thickness of the varnish and avoid an uneven application. When using a brush, be sure to use thin layers and apply as many coats as needed to achieve the desired protection and finish.
It is recommended to let your painting dry thoroughly before applying any varnish. This will ensure that the varnish does not smear or reactivate the colours.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use an acrylic resin varnish, acrylic polymer varnish, clear sealer, or mod podge, depending on the surface you are painting on.
An isolation coat is a layer between the paint and the top coat of varnish. It can be applied with a brush or spray. An isolation coat is not always necessary, but it provides extra protection and allows you to retouch the painting in the future without damaging it.
The type of varnish you use depends on the finish you want. Resin varnishes give a glossy finish and tend to be stronger and clearer than polymer varnishes. If you want a non-glossy finish, you can use a matte or satin varnish.
You can apply varnish with a brush or a spray. If using a brush, use a large, flat brush and cover the entire surface. If using a spray, go outside and hold the can 5-7 inches away from the painting. Apply one coat horizontally and one coat vertically to ensure full coverage.
