Do You Varnish Watercolor Paintings

Do you ever feel like your watercolor paintings are missing that final touch of brilliance? Like they need just a little something extra to truly capture the essence of the scene you’ve painstakingly brought to life on paper?

If so, you’re not alone. Many artists struggle with knowing when and how to varnish their watercolor paintings. They worry about ruining the delicate balance of colors and textures they worked so hard to achieve.

But fear not! In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of varnishing watercolor paintings. We’ll delve into the benefits of varnishing (there are more than you might think!), as well as different types of varnishes and techniques for applying them.

So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s unlock the secrets of creating truly stunning watercolor masterpieces.

Understanding Varnishing and Its Importance for Watercolor Paintings

Watercolor paintings are popular because of their unique transparency and luminosity. However, this also makes them more susceptible to damage from environmental factors like humidity, dust, UV radiation, and even physical contact. This is where varnishing comes into play.

Varnishing refers to the process of applying a protective coating to the surface of a painting. In the case of watercolor paintings, varnish helps protect the pigments from fading or discoloration due to exposure to light or air. It also helps prevent dust and dirt from settling on the painting’s surface.

Moreover, varnishing can enhance the visual appeal of a watercolor painting by adding depth and vibrancy to colors and making them appear richer. It can also help unify any uneven areas on the painting’s surface by providing an even sheen across all areas.

However, it’s important to note that improper application of varnish can have adverse effects on a watercolor painting’s appearance and longevity. Therefore, it is essential to understand when and how varnishing should be done.

The Importance of Waiting Before Varnishing a Watercolor Painting

One common mistake people make when varnishing their watercolor paintings is doing it too soon after they have finished painting. While it may be tempting to want to protect your artwork as soon as possible, it’s crucial not to rush the process.

Watercolors take longer than other mediums like acrylics or oils to dry completely since they rely on evaporation rather than oxidation for curing. Applying varnish before the paint has fully dried can cause issues such as trapped moisture under the coating, leading to discoloration or even mold growth.

Therefore, it’s recommended that you wait at least six months after completing your watercolor painting before applying any varnish.

How Does Humidity Affect Varnishing?

Humidity can play a significant role in the outcome of varnishing a watercolor painting. High humidity levels may prolong drying times, which is why it’s best to apply varnish on a dry day with low humidity levels. This will ensure that the coating dries evenly and without any bubbles or smudging.

Types of Varnish Suitable for Watercolor Paintings

Not all varnishes are suitable for watercolor paintings. It’s essential to choose the right type of varnish that complements the unique properties of watercolors.

The most commonly used types of varnish for watercolor paintings are acrylic-based and resin-based varnishes.

Acrylic-based varnishes are ideal for watercolors because they dry clear, do not yellow over time, and offer UV protection. They also tend to be less toxic than oil-based options.

Resin-based varnishes, on the other hand, provide more durability and protection but can have a slight yellowing effect over time. They may also require solvents like turpentine or mineral spirits for cleanup, which can be harmful if not handled carefully.

Choosing Between Glossy or Matte Finish

Varnish comes in either glossy or matte finishes. Choosing between these two depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve with your artwork.

A glossy finish can make colors appear more vibrant and add depth to the painting’s texture. On the other hand, a matte finish can create a softer look by reducing glare and highlighting delicate details in the painting.

When to Varnish Your Watercolor Painting: A Guide

Varnishing your watercolor painting should not be done arbitrarily; there are specific instances where it becomes necessary. Below are some situations when you might consider applying varnish to your artwork:

• After the paint has fully cured: As mentioned earlier, it’s essential to wait at least six months after completing your watercolor painting before applying any varnish. This will ensure that the paint has fully cured and is less susceptible to damage or discoloration.
• To restore vibrancy: Over time, watercolors can fade or become dull due to exposure to light or air. Applying a layer of varnish can help restore the original vibrancy of colors and protect them from further damage.
• To even out texture: Watercolor paintings can have uneven textures due to variations in pigment density. Varnishing can help create an even sheen across all areas of the artwork, making it more visually appealing.

Suitable Types of Varnish for Watercolor Paintings: What You Need to Know

Choosing the right type of varnish for your watercolor painting is crucial in ensuring its longevity and visual appeal. Here are some things you need to know when selecting a suitable varnish:

The Importance of pH Neutral Varnishes

Watercolors are inherently sensitive to environmental factors like acidity levels. Therefore, it’s crucial to use pH-neutral varnishes that won’t react with pigments over time.

Acidic varnishes may cause discoloration or fading of colors, leading to irreversible damage on your artwork.

Avoid Using Oil-Based Varnishes on Watercolor Paintings

Oil-based varnishes should be avoided when working with watercolors. They tend to yellow over time, which can significantly impact the appearance of your artwork.

Additionally, oil-based varnishes require solvents like turpentine or mineral spirits for cleanup, which can be harmful if not handled carefully.

Choose Between Acrylic-Based and Resin-Based Varnishes

As discussed earlier, acrylic-based and resin-based varnishes are the most suitable options for watercolor paintings. While both provide protection, they have some key differences worth noting.

Acrylic-based varnishes dry clear and offer UV protection without yellowing over time. They also tend to be less toxic than oil-based or solvent-based options.

Resin-based varnishes, on the other hand, offer more durability and can provide a glossy finish. However, they may yellow over time and require solvents for cleanup.

Preparing Your Watercolor Painting for Varnishing: Tips and Tricks

Proper preparation of your watercolor painting is crucial in ensuring that the application of varnish goes smoothly and produces desirable results. Below are some tips to help you prepare your artwork for varnishing:

• Clean your painting: Before applying any varnish, ensure that the surface of your painting is clean from dust or debris using a soft-bristled brush or microfiber cloth.
• Check for discoloration: If your watercolor painting has been exposed to direct sunlight or other environmental factors, it may have developed areas of discoloration or fading. It’s essential to address these issues before applying any varnish.
• Avoid touching the surface: When handling your painting, avoid touching the surface with bare hands as this can leave oils or residue on the surface that can interfere with adhesion of the varnish.

The Tools and Materials You Need to Varnish a Watercolor Painting

Below are some essential tools and materials you need when varnishing a watercolor painting:

• Varnish: Select an appropriate type of varnish based on your personal preference and the desired outcome of your artwork.
• Brushes: Use soft-bristled brushes to apply the varnish evenly on your painting’s surface. Avoid using foam brushes as they may leave bubbles or streaks on the surface.
• Cleaner: Select an appropriate cleaner that won’t react with your varnish or paint, such as distilled water or a mild soap solution.

Can Varnishing Alter the Appearance of Your Watercolor Painting?

Varnishing can have some effects on the appearance of your watercolor painting, depending on the type of varnish used and how it is applied.

When choosing a varnish, consider whether you want a glossy or matte finish and how this will impact your artwork’s overall appearance.

Additionally, improper application of varnish can lead to issues like bubbles, streaks, or uneven coating, which can significantly alter the appearance of your painting.

However, when done correctly, varnishing can enhance and protect your watercolor painting for years to come.

Risks and Drawbacks of Varnishing a Watercolor Painting, and How to Avoid Them

While varnishing can offer numerous benefits for watercolor paintings, there are also some risks and drawbacks that should be considered.

One potential risk is that applying too much varnish can cause cracking or peeling over time. Therefore it’s essential to ensure that you apply a thin layer evenly across the entire surface.

Another drawback is that some types of varnishes may yellow over time. If you’re concerned about this issue, consider using an acrylic-based varnish instead of resin-based options.

To avoid these risks and drawbacks:

• Avoid applying too much varnish: Apply thin layers evenly across the entire surface of your painting.
• Choose a pH-neutral varnish: Acidic varnishes may cause discoloration or fading of colors over time.
• Avoid using oil-based or solvent-based varnishes: These types of varnishes can yellow over time and require solvents for cleanup, which can be harmful if not handled carefully.

How Often Should You Re-Varnish Your Watercolor Painting?

The frequency of re-varnishing your watercolor painting depends on several factors, including the type of varnish used and the environmental conditions in which the painting is displayed.

In general, it’s recommended that you re-varnish your watercolor painting every five to ten years to maintain its vibrancy and protect it from damage.

However, if you notice any signs of discoloration or fading on your painting’s surface, consider re-varnishing it sooner to prevent further damage.

In conclusion, varnishing watercolor paintings is a personal choice based on the artist’s preference. While it can enhance the colors and protect the surface of the painting, it may also alter the original texture and matte finish. Ultimately, artists should experiment with varnishing techniques to determine what works best for their individual style and artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions about Do You Varnish Watercolor Paintings

What do you use to seal watercolor paintings?
There are two options to protect a Watercolor painting: using a Fixative or a varnish coating. Both options are widely used and convenient to apply. Wait until the painting is completely dry before starting the protection process. For both methods, it’s recommended to apply two or more coats for better protection.

What is the best finish for watercolor painting?
For watercolor paintings, it is recommended to apply GOLDEN MSA Varnish or GOLDEN Archival Varnish using a spray. Direct application of Polymer Varnish or other water-based varnishes are not recommended as this may cause the watercolor painting to bleed.

How do you varnish watercolors?
Personally, I prefer the UV archival method as it offers additional protection from light damage for artwork. I suggest applying two to three coats for optimal protection. The next step involves adhering the artwork to the wooden panel.

What can I spray on watercolor to protect it?
To avoid using glass to protect watercolor paintings, you can use UV protective artist fixatives and sprays, followed by a UV protective artist-quality varnish. This will provide adequate protection without the need for glass.

Do watercolor paintings need fixative?
Despite concerns of cracking in the later stages, fixative sprays can be used on watercolor paintings. However, it is recommended to use glass to seal the paintings instead.

What is the golden rule of watercolor?
Don’t do things just to make someone else happy; instead, do what makes you happy, like choosing the color of paint that appeals to you.