- Choose the right varnish: There are two types of varnishes, removable and non-removable. Removable varnishes can be removed with solvents while non-removable ones cannot. Choose the one that suits your painting best.
- Prepare your workspace: Make sure your workspace is clean and dust-free. Cover any nearby surfaces to avoid any accidental spills or splatters.
- Clean the painting: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface of the painting before applying varnish.
- Apply the varnish: Use a soft-bristled brush to apply the varnish in thin, even coats. Start at the top of the painting and work your way down, making sure to cover all areas evenly.
- Allow drying time: Let each coat dry completely before applying another layer. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days depending on the type of varnish used.
- Inspect for bubbles or streaks: After each coat has dried, inspect the painting for any bubbles or streaks. If you find any, gently sand them away with fine-grit sandpaper before applying another coat.
- Repeat as necessary: Apply as many coats as necessary until you achieve the desired level of glossiness and protection for your painting.
Are you frustrated with the final look of your oil painting? Do you feel like something is missing, but you don’t know what it is? Chances are, you haven’t varnished your painting yet. Varnishing not only enhances the colors and tones of an oil painting but also protects it from dirt, dust, and UV damage.
But how do you varnish an oil painting without ruining it? It’s a common fear among many artists, but fear no more. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process of varnishing an oil painting step by step. From choosing the right type of varnish to applying it correctly, I’ll cover everything you need to know to achieve that perfect finish for your masterpiece.
So grab your paintbrush and let’s dive into the world of varnishing!
How to Varnish an Oil Painting – The Quick Answer:
To varnish an oil painting, you will need clear gloss varnish, two brushes, a cloth or rag, and a dust-free workspace. Choose high-quality brushes with long hairs to ensure even distribution of the varnish. Wait at least six months after completing the painting before applying the varnish to allow it to dry and cure fully.
Materials Needed for Varnishing an Oil Painting
Varnishing an oil painting is an essential step in the painting process as it helps to protect and enhance the work. Before you start varnishing your oil painting, ensure that you have all the necessary materials. Here are some of the materials that you will need:
- Varnish: There are different types of varnish, but most artists prefer a clear gloss varnish.
- Brushes: You will need two brushes – one for applying the varnish and another one for removing any dust or debris from the painting surface before varnishing.
- Cloth or rag: This is used to wipe off any excess varnish from the brush after application.
- Dust-free workspace: Ensure that your workspace is clean and free of dust to avoid any particles sticking on your painting.
Choosing Your Varnish
There are different types of varnishes available, including damar, mastic, and synthetic resin. The type of varnish you choose depends on personal preference and needs. One common type of varnish used by artists is clear gloss acrylic polymer medium. It is easy to apply, dries quickly, and is removable if needed.
Choosing Your Brushes
It’s important to use high-quality brushes when applying varnish to an oil painting. Use a soft-bristled brush with long hairs such as hog bristle or sable hair brush. A soft-bristled brush ensures even distribution of the varnish without leaving marks on your artwork.
When to Varnish Your Oil Painting
Knowing when to apply a coat of varnish on your oil painting can be tricky. Typically, it’s best to wait at least six months after the painting is completed before varnishing. This allows the painting to dry and cure fully.
Why Wait?
Waiting ensures that the paint has completely dried and cured before applying a layer of varnish. If you apply a varnish coat too soon, it can trap moisture within the layers of paint, leading to discoloration or cracking over time. Additionally, some paint colors may darken as they dry, so waiting gives you an accurate idea of how your painting will look when it’s varnished.
How to Test for Dryness
To check if your oil painting is dry enough for varnishing, gently touch the surface with the back of your finger. If it feels cool to the touch or sticky, it’s not yet ready for varnishing. But if it feels dry and smooth, then it’s safe to proceed with varnishing.
Preparing Your Oil Painting for Varnishing
Before applying a layer of varnish on your oil painting, there are several steps you should take to prepare your artwork properly.
Clean Your Painting Surface
Begin by cleaning your painting surface using a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or debris that might have accumulated on the surface. Ensure that you work in a clean environment with little to no dust present.
Remove Any Grease Marks
If there are any grease marks on your painting surface, use odorless mineral spirits on a clean cloth or cotton swab to remove them gently.
Fix Any Damages
Check for any damages such as cracks or flaking paint. Repair these areas using appropriate techniques before proceeding with varnishing.
Different Types of Varnish for Oil Paintings
There are different types of varnishes available for oil paintings. Each type of varnish offers unique features that cater to different needs, and it’s important to choose the right one for your artwork.
Damar Varnish
Damar varnish is a traditional varnish used by many oil painters. It is made from natural resins and offers a high gloss finish that enhances colors and protects the painting. However, it tends to yellow over time and may require removal with solvents.
Mastic Varnish
Mastic varnish is another traditional varnish that provides a high gloss finish. It is made from natural resins, which are dissolved in turpentine or other solvents. Mastic varnish dries hard and can be difficult to remove once applied.
Synthetic Resin Varnish
Synthetic resin varnishes are modern alternatives to traditional resin-based varnishes. They dry clear, do not yellow over time, and are removable with solvents if needed. Synthetic resin varnishes come in various finishes such as matte, satin, or glossy.
Applying Varnish to Your Oil Painting
Before applying the varnish, ensure that your workspace is clean and free of dust particles that might stick on your painting surface during application.
Using a Soft-Bristled Brush
Choose a soft-bristle brush with long hairs for even distribution of the varnish without leaving marks on your artwork. Dip the brush into the container of varnish, ensuring that you don’t get too much or too little on your brush.
Applying the Varnish
Start by applying an even layer of the varnish on the painting surface using long horizontal strokes across the entire canvas. Avoid overworking areas as this can create unevenness in the final result.
Number of Coats of Varnish to Apply to Your Oil Painting
The number of coats of varnish you apply on your oil painting depends on personal preference and the type of varnish used.
One Coat
One coat of varnish can be enough for some artists. It provides a protective layer and enhances the colors without adding too much shine or gloss.
Two Coats
Some artists prefer two coats for added protection and shine. Apply the first layer, let it dry, then apply the second one.
Using the Right Brush for Applying Varnish to Your Oil Painting
Choosing the right brush for applying varnish is essential for achieving an even, smooth result. Here are some tips when selecting a brush:
Soft Bristles
Choose a soft-bristled brush with long hairs such as hog bristle or sable hair brush. A soft-bristled brush ensures even distribution of the varnish without leaving marks on your artwork.
Avoid Synthetic Brushes
Avoid synthetic brushes as they may leave streaks or marks on your painting surface.
Drying and Curing Time for Varnish on Your Oil Painting
After applying varnish to your oil painting, it’s important to give it enough time to dry and cure fully before handling or framing it.
Drying Time
The drying time for varnish varies depending on factors such as humidity, temperature, and thickness applied. Typically, it takes 24 hours for a thin layer to dry completely.
Curing Time
Curing time refers to the time it takes for the varnish to harden fully. It can take up to several weeks or even months for the varnish to cure completely. During this period, avoid exposing your painting to direct sunlight or high humidity levels.
In conclusion, varnishing an oil painting is an important step in preserving the artwork and enhancing its appearance. By following the proper steps and using the right materials, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish for your oil paintings.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Varnish an Oil Painting
What is the best way to apply varnish on an oil painting?
It’s alright, I’ll just apply wet varnish to the canvas and then later I can go back and make adjustments to remove brush strokes and make it smoother.
How do you varnish an oil painting at home?
I suggest waiting until your painting is fully dry before handling it, and giving it a few extra days just to be safe.
What kind of varnish do you use on an oil painting?
Acrylic varnishes are commonly used for oil paintings and can be applied using either a brush or spray. However, using a brush may result in unpredictable outcomes such as uneven coverage or bubbles forming on the painting’s surface.
Are you supposed to varnish oil painting?
An oil painting can have a long-lasting and sturdy paint layer that does not require a varnish. Varnishes can still be applied for either aesthetic or protective purposes, such as altering the surface texture to a glossy or matte finish.
How long should an oil painting dry before varnishing?
To protect your painting, apply varnish either six weeks after completion if it is thinly painted or one year after completion if it is thickly painted. If you are unable to wait, you can apply varnish within a few weeks after painting, provided that the paint has dried completely.
How long to wait between coats of varnish on oil painting?
Varnishes are not completely airtight, which means that oxygen can pass through them to allow oil paint to oxidize and harden. However, varnishes also slow down the oxygen flow which can delay the drying process. Many painters still recommend waiting at least six months before applying varnish to ensure the best results.
