How to Varnish an Oil Painting

Whether you'd just like to bring out your painting's colors or you're anxious about protecting your work, varnish puts the finishing touch on an oil painting. Avoid a mess by following the steps listed for a quick and easy application.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Varnish
• Brush
• A container to pour the varnish in
• Paper towels
• Plastic or cloth drop cloths

1. Make certain your painting is absolutely dry and clean before varnishing. Most paintings must sit for at least six months before you can apply varnish. Thicker paintings can require as long as eight months. To clean the painting, dampen a cotton cloth and gently wipe the surface down. Make sure to remove any tiny wisps of cotton caught on the paint.
2. Find an area where you can work undisturbed. This place should have excellent ventilation and have a large surface available to work on. Cover anything you'd rather not get varnish on, such as tables and chairs. A place with lots of windows or a porch works best.
3. Check the directions for your choice of varnish. Some require you to blend the varnish with turpentine. If you must do this, be prepared to mix quickly because turpentine evaporates at an alarming rate. Some varnishes also require heating to work properly. Many professionals also recommend securing an extra bottle in case of spills or adjustments.
4. Pick a brush. Choosing the right brush is important. Make sure it is a higher quality brush to avoid shedding bristles onto your painting. Generally, brushes that are used for applying gesso work just fine, but make sure your brush is big enough to apply the varnish quickly.
5. Apply the varnish quickly in strokes from one side to the other, always in the same direction. After a minute, begin the application again, but this time in the perpendicular direction. This will ensure that your painting is evenly covered with varnish. Let it lie flat for awhile, until the varnish is tacky. Your painting could take several days to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Never heat varnish in a pot. It is extremely flammable.

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