Art Lessons with Lianne
Varnishing
This is a crucial step that a lot of people skip. I never used to varnish my paintings until I saw other creators on social media using varnish. it made me realise what a huge difference varnish makes and that the painting is never truly complete until it has had a coat of varnish. There are many reasons why its important to varnish your painting. Firstly, it will protect your painting for years to come. Your painting will need protection from dust, dirt, and UV light. It can also help prevent the paint from cracking or fading over time. Secondly, varnish improves the aesthetics. It will enhance the colours and details of the painting, making it look more vibrant and polished. It will also even out the finish of the painting and can give it a glossy or matte finish, depending on the type of varnish you use. without varnish you will have areas of shine where medium was used and matt areas where there is less oil. Finally Varnishing your oil painting can help preserve it for future generations by creating a barrier between the painting and the environment. This can help prevent the painting from deteriorating or becoming damaged over time. Watch a real time varnishing video of my painting 'Destination unknown' below.
How to Varnish an Oil Painting
Here are some tips for varnishing an oil painting:
Step 1: Wait for the painting to dry
Before you start varnishing your oil painting, you need to wait for it to dry completely. This can take up to 6 months or more, depending on the thickness of the paint and the humidity in your area. If you varnish your painting before it’s completely dry, the varnish may crack or become cloudy.
Step 2: Choose the right varnish
There are two types of varnish you can use on an oil painting: a removable varnish or a non-removable varnish. A removable varnish can be easily removed with a solvent, while a non-removable varnish is permanent. If you’re not sure which varnish to use, it’s best to consult with an art supply store or professional artist.
Step 3: Prepare your workspace
Make sure your workspace is clean and dust-free. Lay your painting flat on a clean surface or easel and wipe it down with a dry cloth making sure the surface is free of any dust and debris.
Step 4: Apply the varnish
Using a soft-bristled brush or a varnish sponge, apply the varnish in long, even strokes. Start at the top of the painting and work your way down. Be careful not to apply too much varnish or it may run or drip. If you do see any drips, gently brush them out before they dry. If you are using a bristle brush check to make sure none of the bristle have come out over the painting.
Step 5: Let the varnish dry
After you’ve applied the varnish, let it dry completely in an area protected from dust.. This usually takes around 24 hours or more, depending on the type of varnish you used and the humidity in your area. i always leave my painting for a week.
Step 6: Inspect the painting Once the varnish is dry, inspect the painting for any imperfections. If you see any bubbles or bumps, you can gently sand them out with fine-grit sandpaper. If you need to do any touch-ups, wait until the varnish is completely dry before you start.
Step 7: Repeat if necessary If you want to add more layers of varnish, wait until the first layer is completely dry before you apply the next layer. You can add as many layers as you like, but keep in mind that each layer will make the painting more glossy.
Step 8: Enjoy your varnished painting Once you’re satisfied with the varnish, you can enjoy your varnished painting. The varnish will protect the painting from dust, dirt, and UV light, and will give it a beautiful, glossy finish.