Acryllacke- Jackson's

Artists use varnish to protect their work and enhance its appearance. A varnish for acrylic paint shields the finished painting from dust, moisture, and UV exposure. This helps to maintain its quality over time.

Additionally, acrylic varnish enhances vibrancy, deepens saturation, and creates a unified finish. Whether for preservation or aesthetic purposes, varnish is an essential final step for many artists.

‘Varnish deepens and enriches colours, the same way that wetting a stone makes it look more saturated. For most paintings this is desirable. But you need to decide if this is a change you’d like for your painting.

Gloss usually saturates colours more than satin which does it more than matt, but in most varnishes, all the sheens will saturate the colours to some degree.’

- Julie Caves, ‘How to Varnish a Painting’, Jackson’s Art Blog.

The use of varnishes dates back to the Renaissance when materials like egg whites and resins were used to protect and enhance paintings. With the advent of acrylics in the 20th century, acrylic varnishes were developed to meet the needs of modern artists.

These varnishes offered a more flexible and durable option compared to traditional formulas. Today, some of the world's most important artworks are protected with acrylic varnishes, helping to ensure artworks remain vibrant and protected for centuries to come.

At Jackson’s Art Supplies, we provide a premium range of acrylic varnishes, including gloss, matt, and satin finishes from trusted brands. Our varnishes are formulated to offer superior protection and enhance colour vibrancy.

Backed by a 4.8-star Trustpilot rating, we’re known for expert advice, fast delivery, and eco-friendly packaging.

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Explore our selection of acrylic varnishes, available in a variety of finishes to suit your artwork. Enhance and protect your artwork with trusted brands and expert advice. Visit our Contact Us and Help & Advice for further support.

How Do I Know If My Acrylic Painting Needs Varnish or Not?

Deciding to use acrylic varnish depends on your desired look and level of protection. Varnish can enhance colour vibrancy and protect your work, but some artists may choose to leave their work unvarnished. Consider your painting's environment and the finish you want before varnishing.

What Is The Process When Using Acrylic Varnishes?

Start by ensuring your painting is completely dry. Choose your preferred acrylic varnish, and apply thin, even coats with a soft varnish brush or spray. Let each layer dry fully before adding another. Allow the final coat to cure completely for a durable finish.

Why Do I Need to Wait for a Painting to Be Completely Dry Before Adding Acrylic Varnish?

Applying acrylic varnish to a wet painting can cause smudging and an uneven finish. Waiting ensures the whole painting is stable, preventing blotches and maintaining the painting’s appearance and texture.

How Long Should I Wait for My Acrylic Painting to Dry Before Applying Varnish?

Allow at least 24-48 hours for acrylic paint to dry before applying varnish. For thicker applications, wait several days to ensure the layers are completely cured.

How Long Does It Take for the Final Coat of Acrylic Varnish to Dry and Cure Completely?

The final coat of acrylic varnish typically dries within 24 hours, but it may take longer depending on the product. Ensure it is completely dry before handling to avoid smudges or fingerprints.

What Techniques Should I Use When Applying Acrylic Varnish?

Apply acrylic varnish in thin, even layers using smooth, long strokes in one direction. This ensures consistent coverage and prevents streaks or bubbles. For spray varnish, maintain a steady hand and even distance from the surface.

Remember that a few thin coats of varnish are better than a thick one. It needs to dry quickly or it can have problems such as trapping dust, pooling to one side of the painting, running off the edge, drying cloudy, and not drying properly so that it stays sticky.

Should I Sand Between Coats When Varnishing?

Sanding between varnish coats is optional. Sanding acrylic paint can leave a residue behind and cause damage. You could also accidentally remove too much paint or damage the finish.

Does Varnish Help an Acrylic Painting's Longevity?

Yes, acrylic varnish helps protect against UV rays, dust, and moisture. This helps to preserve the vibrancy and durability of your painting. It prevents fading or discolouration over time.

What Tools Can I Use to Apply Acrylic Varnish?

Artists can use soft varnish brushes or spray varnish to apply acrylic varnish.