How to Apply Varnish to Acrylic Painting

Applying varnish to your painting will help protect it against the elements.

If you plan on displaying your acrylic painting and don't want to frame it under glass, you will need to protect it. Varnish is a synthetic or natural resin solution that creates a transparent film over a surface. When applied properly to your painting, varnish can help protect it from sunlight, dust, dirt and other small particles that can land on a painting. It is possible to apply varnish to an acrylic painting by following a few methods.

Things You'll Need

• Varnish solution
• Cotton cloth
• Bowl
• Bristle paint brush
• Gloves
• Goggles
• Breather mask

Instructions

1. Lay your painting flat on a table. Make sure it is completely dry before you apply the varnish. You may want to wait 24 hours before you apply the varnish.

2. Remove any dust, dirt or small debris from the surface of the painting using a soft, clean cloth.

3. Clean a small tray or bowl to make sure it is free of any dust and dirt. You don't want dirt and other small particles to mix with your varnish. Pour the varnish into the bowl.

4. Dip an unused synthetic bristle paintbrush into the varnish. Apply a thin coat to your painting. Start at the top of your painting and work your way down to the bottom using short deliberate strokes. Let the varnish dry for 3 to 4 hours before applying a second coat.

5. Apply a second coat of varnish by following steps 3 and 4 and let dry for another 24 hours. Hang and display your painting after the varnish has completely dried.

Tips & Warnings

• You can purchase varnish for paintings at an arts supply or home improvement store.

• Make sure your work area has good lighting so you can spot loose brush hairs that find their way into the varnish including bubbles and spots you may have missed.

• When working with acrylic or other solvents, make sure your room is well ventilated. Read the label of the product and follow safe studio practices. These include wearing gloves, respirator masks and eye goggles.

References

• Smithsonian: Painting Varnishes