Varnishing a Painting – Is It Worth to Protect the Work of Art with This Method?

Varnishing is a technique commonly used to protect the surface of a painting from the passage of time or from damage. Many artists decide to apply varnish, as it is a relatively easy method of obtaining an insulating layer, protecting the object. What exactly is varnishing and is it worth to protect the work of art in this way?

Varnishing a painting – what is this?

Varnishing is covering the painting with varnish – a solution of resin (natural or synthetic) in solvent (e.g., in alcohol or volatile oil), which can be modified by additives, giving the substance different properties. These are usually beeswax, which gives a tarnishing effect, or essential oils, which dilute the varnish. Currently, the choice of varnishes on the market is very wide, which allows one to use a solution that will bring the expected effect. Some people also decide to make a varnish with the desired properties themselves.

Among the main advantages of varnishing paintings is the creation of a layer that protects the painting from dust and dirt and slows down the aging process of the paint as a result of exposure to the sun (UV radiation) and oxidation. In addition, the resin solution also affects the appearance of the artwork by unifying the surface of the canvas and multiplying the depth of color.

Different types of varnish

The type of varnish affects its color, smell, density and level of harmfulness to the respiratory system. Natural varnish is usually applied in a well-ventilated room or in a professional protective mask. Varnishes also have different degrees of transparency and drying speed. Some can be removed after time, while others cannot. When choosing the right varnish for a particular painting, you should take into account all these aspects and follow the producer's instructions, otherwise this process can uniquely affect the work.

How to varnish a painting? Varnish application

Most often paintings painted with oil, acrylic and tempera paints are varnished. Regardless of the type of paint, in order to perform the procedure properly, without damaging the painting, the paint must be completely dry. Make sure that the surface of the artwork is clean and the room where you apply the substance is free from dust and dirt. You can apply the varnish with a brush, your hand, by spraying or padding. It is important to apply as thin a layer of the product as possible in the shortest possible time, and then protect the painting until its new, protective layer is completely dry.