04 December, 2010

How to varnish a finished painting

Does anybody know the correct procedure for protecting a finished oil painting on canvas? - I understand it's meant to be varnished but which are the best products? and are you meant to do it in layers? and how do you clean the dust off it first? I would really appreciate people's experience.

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andrew masino 01 Mar 2012

After 50 years, I've found the best way is to first wipe down the the canvas with a soft damp cloth. Let it air dry. I have always used Damar varnish but commercial mixtures can be rather thin, so I order damar crystals and mix the varnish to the consistency I like. I think one coat is enough but you may find that doesn't give the gloss you like. I don't varnish a canvas until it is a year old and make sure that the canvas is in a horizontal position to avoid runs. Damar crystas can be purchased at Utrechts,com

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