10 Best Varnish For Acrylic Painting (2024 Update)

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If you're an acrylic artist, you might be wondering what varnish to use to protect your artwork. Varnish is an essential component of acrylic painting as it protects the paint from environmental factors such as dust, dirt, and moisture. It also enhances the color and texture of the painting.

Here are five key points to consider when looking for a varnish for acrylic paintings:

1. Type of Varnish: There are two types of varnish for acrylic paintings, namely, removable and permanent. Removable varnish is suitable for paintings that need cleaning or restoration in the future. Permanent varnish, on the other hand, is ideal for paintings that require maximum protection.

2. Gloss Level: Varnish comes in various gloss levels such as matte, satin, and gloss. The gloss level you choose depends on your personal preference and the artwork's style. For example, a gloss varnish is suitable for an artwork with bright colors, while a matte varnish is ideal for a painting with a subtle color palette.

3. Compatibility: Ensure that the varnish you choose is compatible with acrylic paints. Some varnishes can react with acrylic paints, leading to discoloration or cracking.

4. Application: Consider the method of application when choosing a varnish. Some varnishes require a brush application, while others come in spray form. Brush application allows more control, while spray application provides a more even finish.

5. Drying Time: The drying time of varnish varies depending on the brand and type. Some varnishes dry quickly, while others take longer to dry. Consider the drying time when planning your painting schedule and when deciding between removable and permanent varnish.

In conclusion, choosing the right varnish for your acrylic painting is crucial to ensure maximum protection and enhance its overall appearance. Consider the type, gloss level, compatibility, application method, and drying time when selecting a varnish for your artwork.

10 Best Varnish For Acrylic Painting

1. Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish, 237ml (8-Oz)

Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish is a high-quality medium that provides a permanent, non-removable, and glossy finish to your artwork. The product comes in a lightweight, non-toxic, and easy-to-use 8-oz / 237ml bottle, making it perfect for artists of all levels.

This varnish is designed to create a durable, flexible, and non-tacky surface that is resistant to water and does not yellow over time. It is an archival quality product that meets the ASTM D4236 safety standards and is safe for educational use.

One of the most significant advantages of Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish is its compatibility with other Liquitex Professional Acrylic Paint Colors and Mediums. This means that you can easily mix and match this medium with other Liquitex products to create unique and personalized effects.

To use Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish, simply apply a thin layer to your artwork using a brush or spray. You can also use it as a final layer over your painting to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture. The product dries quickly and leaves a crystal-clear, glossy finish that enhances the colors and details of your artwork.

Overall, Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish is a must-have medium for every artist who wants to create long-lasting, vibrant, and glossy artworks. Its versatile nature, easy-to-use formula, and compatibility with other Liquitex products make it an excellent addition to any artist's toolkit.

2. Sargent Art Acrylic Gloss And Varnish, 1 Gal, Non-Toxic, Use On Multiple Surfaces, Compatible With Acrylic Paint, Ideal For Art And Craft Projects.

Sargent Art Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is the perfect solution to protect your artistic creations. This product forms a thin clear layer of protective finish on top of the dried painting, ensuring the longevity of your artwork.

The quality of raw materials used to make this Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is of the highest standard. The product is uniquely formulated to ensure the best quality with a fantastic consistency for application, making it ideal for acrylic painting.

The safety of the product is paramount, and it is AP certified, ensuring it is safe to use. It is also non-toxic, and cleaning up is easy with soap and water before drying. The permanent finish is non-yellowing, which means your artwork will maintain its original appearance.

This acrylic paint is easy to use, and pouring just the right amount is a breeze. The water-based formula is perfect for crafting with all ages, making it a great addition to your art supplies.

The special instructions for this product include using it over finished work to protect and enhance color depth. You can also mix it with acrylic paint to increase gloss, ease paint flow, and increase transparency. This versatility makes it a must-have for any artist.

Overall, Sargent Art Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is a reliable and high-quality product that protects your artwork while enhancing its appearance. Its ease of use, safety, and versatility make it an essential addition to your art supplies.

3. Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Satin Uv Varnish, 225ml

Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Satin UV Varnish is an essential product for artists who want to protect their artwork from airborne pollutants, UV damage, and fading. This varnish is a high-quality and reliable solution that is made in France, ensuring that you are getting a product that has been carefully crafted with attention to detail.

This varnish comes in a 225ml bottle, which is compact enough to easily store in your art studio, yet large enough to provide you with plenty of varnish for multiple projects. The package dimensions are 7 L x 8.4H x7W(centimeters), which makes it easy to store and transport.

One of the key benefits of this varnish is its ability to protect your artwork from airborne pollutants. When you create art, it is exposed to various pollutants in the air, such as dust, dirt, and other particles. These pollutants can cause damage to your artwork over time, which is why it is important to protect it with a high-quality varnish like Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Satin UV Varnish.

Another benefit of this varnish is its ability to protect your art from UV damage and fading. When your artwork is exposed to sunlight, it can cause the colors to fade and the overall quality of the artwork to deteriorate. This varnish provides a protective barrier that helps to prevent this from happening, ensuring that your artwork looks as vibrant and beautiful as the day you created it.

Overall, Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Satin UV Varnish is a must-have product for any artist who wants to protect their artwork and ensure that it looks as good as possible for years to come. With its high-quality formulation and reliable performance, this varnish is an investment that will pay off in the long run by preserving the quality of your artwork.

4. Liquitex Basics Gloss Varnish, 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle

Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish is a high-quality varnish that is designed to protect finished paintings. This varnish is a permanent solution that can be mixed with other matte varnishes to create a unique finish. It dries to a clear, non-yellowing finish that will keep your artwork looking great for years to come.

One of the best things about this varnish is that it is very easy to apply. The best way to apply it is with a large, soft brush. This will help you get an even coat of varnish on your painting without leaving any brush marks or streaks. The varnish is also very easy to clean up with soap and water, making it a great choice for artists who want to keep their supplies clean and organized.

Another great thing about Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish is that it is certified by the ACMI and conforms to ASTM d4236. This means that it is safe for educational use and has been tested to make sure that it meets the highest standards for quality and safety.

This varnish is perfect for artists who want to protect their finished paintings from dust, dirt, and other environmental factors. It is also great for artists who want to add a glossy finish to their paintings without changing the overall look and feel of the artwork. Whether you are an experienced artist or just starting out, Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish is a great choice for protecting and enhancing your artwork.

5. Smart 'n Easy Citrus Gel – Removes 15+ Paint & Varnish Layers In One Application – Orange Scent – Diy Friendly – 5 Gal.

The Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel is a powerful yet easy-to-use product that can strip up to 15+ layers of acrylic, latex, oil, and water-based paints, varnishes, and coatings in usually a single application. This versatile product is effective on almost every surface, including wood, brick, stone, metal, marble, terra cotta, granite, terrazzo, concrete, plaster, cement, copper, tin, enamel, slate, cast iron, and more.

Unlike other paint and varnish removers that contain caustic chemicals like Methylene Chloride or NMP, the Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel is formulated without these harmful ingredients. This makes it safe to use without worrying about harmful fumes or skin irritation. Simply apply the gel to the surface you want to strip and check periodically for up to 24 hours. Once the paint or varnish has loosened, remove it with a scraper or pressure washer. No fuss, no muss!

This product is perfect for both professional painting contractors and DIY enthusiasts who want to tackle home improvement projects like furniture and cabinet refinishing. The Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel is user-friendly and powerful enough to get the job done right the first time.

Smart 'n Easy is a brand that is proudly made in the USA with globally sourced, high-quality ingredients in their US facility. Their products are trusted by both DIYers and professionals alike and are known for their effectiveness and ease of use. With Smart 'n Easy, you can be confident that you are using a product that will get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Overall, the Smart 'n Easy Citrus Paint & Varnish Remover Gel is a versatile and effective product that can help you remove even the toughest layers of paint and varnish from almost any surface. Whether you are a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, this product is a must-have in your toolbox.

6. Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss And Varnish, Other, 1-(Pack)

Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is a high-quality product that has been designed to serve as both a gloss and varnish. The product is certified by AP, which means that it is non-toxic and safe for use by individuals of all ages.

When applied on surfaces, the Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish dries to a permanent, waterproof, and protective finish that enhances the durability of the underlying surfaces. This makes it an ideal product for individuals who want to protect and preserve their artwork, crafts, or other items that require a protective layer.

One of the unique features of the Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is its ability to mix with acrylic paint. By combining the gloss and varnish with acrylic paint, individuals can create a custom finish that meets their specific needs. This feature makes the product highly versatile and valuable to artists and crafters who require a product that can be customized to meet their unique requirements.

In addition to its use as a mixing medium, the Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish can also be used as a clear coat. When applied as a clear coat, the product creates a glossy finish that enhances the appearance of the underlying surfaces. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who want to enhance the appearance of their artwork or crafts.

Another benefit of the Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is that it is acid-free. This means that it does not contain any acid that can cause damage to the underlying surfaces. As a result, the product can be used on a wide range of materials without fear of causing any damage.

Lastly, the Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is made in the USA. This ensures that the product is of high quality and meets the standards set by the US regulatory bodies. Overall, the Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is an excellent product that offers versatility, durability, and value for money.

7. Anti-Shine Matt Spray For Miniature Painting – Quickshade Top Coat – Satin Finish – 400ml Can.

The Army Painter Anti Shine Matt Spray for Miniature Painting is a high-quality product that is designed to protect your painted miniatures and models from the wear and tear of the battlefield. This 400ml can of satin finish spray is an acrylic varnish that is ideal for use as a top coat after applying Quickshade spray paint.

The Aegis Suit Satin Varnish is designed to add an extra layer of protection to your tabletop or roleplaying miniatures. This high-quality satin varnish will help to protect your paintwork from scratches, scuffs, and other types of damage that can occur during gameplay. Whether you are a seasoned gamer or a beginner, this product is an essential addition to your miniature painting kit.

One of the standout features of this product is its high-quality satin finish. Unlike the Anti Shine Matt Varnish developed for Quickshade, the Aegis Suit will leave a slight satin finish on your models. This finish is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides an extra layer of protection for your acrylic surfaces.

When using this product, it is important to note that it should only be used at optimal temperatures. It is recommended to always test on a spare model first and only at room temperature – do not use in cold and humid weather. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you get the best possible results from your Aegis Suit Satin Varnish.

In summary, The Army Painter Anti Shine Matt Spray for Miniature Painting is an excellent product that is designed to protect your tabletop or roleplaying miniatures and models. This satin finish spray is easy to use and provides excellent protection for your paintwork. Whether you are a seasoned gamer or a beginner, this product is a must-have for anyone who wants to protect their miniatures and models from damage.

8. 40-Bottle Set Of Ophir Acrylic Pouring Paint With 36 Colors, Magic Medium, Varnish, And High-Flow Water-Based Formula For Pour Art On Various Surfaces.

OPHIR Acrylic Pouring Paint is a set of 40 bottles of high-quality, pre-mixed pouring paint that is perfect for artists of all levels. The set includes 36 colors, from matt colors to neons to pastels and metallic, as well as 60ML magic medium and 100ML varnish, which are essential assistants for any pour art project.

One of the standout features of this set is the vibrant colors. The 36 colors are all pre-mixed and ready to use, so there's no need to add any other blender substance. This makes it incredibly easy to pour the paints with any idea in mind. Additionally, the 100ML bottle size for every color, along with a high-quality non-disposable cup for every color, ensures that there's enough paint to make a variety of art pieces.

Another great feature of the OPHIR Acrylic Pouring Paint is its high flow. This means that the paint can flow on the canvas, wooden pieces, and other crafts smoothly without any bubbles, making it perfect for creating fluid art. The water-based formula also makes it easy to clean any remaining paint in the cups.

OPHIR Acrylic Pouring Paint is also 100% safe guaranteed. All the acrylic pouring paints in the set conform to ASTM D-4236, meaning they're non-toxic and suitable for both adults and children. This ensures that artists can create their art without worrying about any harmful chemicals.

Overall, the OPHIR Acrylic Pouring Paint set is an excellent choice for anyone looking to create vibrant and stunning pour art pieces. Its pre-mixed colors, high flow, and 100% safe guarantee make it a top choice for artists of all levels. Whether you're creating on canvas, wood, glass, paper, or even stones, this set is a must-have.

9. Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Matt Uv Varnish, 125ml

Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Matt UV Varnish is a high-quality varnish that is designed to protect art from airborne pollutants, UV damage, and fading. This varnish is an essential tool for any artist who wants to ensure that their art remains in top condition over time.

One of the key benefits of this varnish is that it dries to an even finish. This means that artists can apply it to their work without worrying about any unevenness or streaks. Additionally, this varnish can be mixed with other sheen finishes to create a variety of different final finishes. Whether an artist wants a glossy or matte finish, they can achieve it by mixing this varnish with other products.

Another advantage of Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Matt UV Varnish is that it can be removed with varnish remover. This makes it easy for artists to make changes to their work or to remove the varnish altogether if they decide they no longer want it on their piece.

One of the most important benefits of this varnish is its ability to protect art from airborne pollutants, UV damage, and fading. Over time, exposure to these elements can cause artwork to deteriorate, lose color, and even become unrecognizable. However, by applying Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Matt UV Varnish, artists can ensure that their work remains in top condition for years to come.

Overall, Winsor & Newton Professional Acrylic Medium Matt UV Varnish is a must-have for any artist who wants to protect their art from the elements and ensure that it remains in top condition over time. With its even finish, ability to be mixed with other products, and easy removal, this varnish is a versatile and valuable tool for any artist's toolkit.

10. 6pc Large Flat Paint Brush Set For Various Painting Applications With Brush Cleaner – Dainayw Artist

The Dainayw Artist Flat Paint Brush-Large Wash Brushes Set is a versatile collection of brushes that are perfect for a range of craft projects. Whether you're working with gesso, varnishes, acrylic paints, watercolors, or oils, these brushes are up to the task. The set includes six brushes in different sizes, ranging from 2.36 inches to 0.79 inches, making it easy to tackle projects of all sizes.

One of the standout features of the Dainayw Artist Flat Paint Brush-Large Wash Brushes Set is the quality of the bristles. They are made from soft nylon, which makes them gentle on surfaces, but they retain their original shape when in use. This means you can count on consistent results every time you use them. Additionally, the brushes are designed with anti-shedding technology, which ensures that the bristles remain intact, even after multiple uses.

Another great benefit of the Dainayw Artist Flat Paint Brush-Large Wash Brushes Set is how easy they are to clean. The soft nylon bristles are simple to rinse clean with water and mild soap, and they dry quickly, so you can get back to your project in no time. This makes them a great choice for artists who want to spend more time creating and less time cleaning their tools.

In addition to being a high-quality set of brushes, the Dainayw Artist Flat Paint Brush-Large Wash Brushes Set also comes with a risk-free purchase guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your brushes, the company is happy to provide a no-questions-asked refund or replacement. This ensures that you can buy with confidence, knowing that you are getting a quality product that is backed by a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Overall, the Dainayw Artist Flat Paint Brush-Large Wash Brushes Set is a must-have for any artist or crafter looking for a versatile, high-quality set of brushes. With their soft nylon bristles, anti-shedding technology, and easy-to-clean design, these brushes are sure to become a favorite in your collection. And with the company's risk-free purchase guarantee, there's no reason not to try them out today.

Best Varnish For Acrylic Painting FAQs

Can varnish be applied to wet or dry acrylic paint?

Varnish can be applied to dry acrylic paint. It is not recommended to apply varnish to wet acrylic paint as it can cause the paint to lift or smudge. It is important to wait for the acrylic paint to dry completely before applying varnish. The drying time of acrylic paint depends on various factors like the thickness of the paint, the humidity, and the temperature of the surroundings. It is recommended to wait for at least 24 hours before applying varnish on acrylic paint. Applying varnish to dry acrylic paint provides a protective layer that enhances the colors and provides a glossy or matte finish, depending on the type of varnish used. Overall, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions while applying varnish on acrylic paint for the best results.

Does varnish change the appearance of acrylic paintings?

Varnish is a clear coating that is applied onto a painting surface to protect and enhance its appearance. When it comes to acrylic paintings, varnish can indeed change the appearance of the artwork. This is because acrylics are known for their matte finish, and varnish can add a glossy finish to the artwork.

The type of varnish used can also affect the appearance of an acrylic painting. A glossy varnish will give a high shine to the painting while a satin varnish will provide a subtle sheen. Additionally, some varnishes can have a yellowing effect on the painting over time, which can alter the original colors of the artwork.

However, it is important to note that not all artists choose to use varnish on their acrylic paintings. Some artists prefer the matte finish of acrylics and choose to leave their paintings unvarnished. Ultimately, the decision to use varnish on an acrylic painting is up to the artist's preference and the desired outcome for the artwork.

How do you apply varnish to acrylic paintings?

To apply varnish to acrylic paintings, it is important to ensure that the painting is completely dry and free of dust or debris. It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours after completing the painting before applying varnish.

There are several types of varnish available, including gloss, satin, and matte finishes. It is important to choose the appropriate type of varnish based on the desired final appearance of the painting.

To apply varnish, use a clean, soft-bristled brush and apply a thin, even layer in one direction. Avoid overworking the varnish, as this can cause bubbles or streaks to form. Allow the varnish to dry completely before applying a second coat, if desired.

It is also important to note that varnish can yellow over time, so it is recommended to use a UV-resistant varnish or to store the painting in a location that is not exposed to direct sunlight.

How often should you apply varnish to acrylic paintings?

As an acrylic painter, it's important to know how often to apply varnish to your paintings to ensure their longevity and protection. The frequency of varnish application will depend on various factors like the type of varnish used, the environment the painting is in, and the level of protection required.

Typically, it's recommended to apply varnish to acrylic paintings once they are completely dry and cured, which can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. After the initial application, it's recommended to reapply varnish every 1-3 years to maintain protection and prevent yellowing or damage.

If your painting is exposed to harsh environments like direct sunlight or high humidity, it may be necessary to apply varnish more frequently. Additionally, if you notice any damage or wear to the varnish layer, it's best to reapply to protect the painting.

Overall, it's important to regularly inspect and maintain your acrylic paintings with varnish to ensure their longevity and protection.

What is the best varnish for acrylic painting?

There are several varnishes available in the market that can be used for acrylic paintings. However, the best varnish for acrylic painting would depend on the artist's preference and the type of finish they want to achieve.

One of the most popular varnishes for acrylic painting is the gloss varnish. It gives a high shine finish to the painting and enhances the colors, making them appear more vibrant. The gloss varnish is perfect for paintings that have a lot of texture and depth.

Another popular varnish for acrylic painting is the matte varnish. It gives a non-reflective finish to the painting, which is perfect for paintings that have subtle colors and details. The matte varnish also provides a protective layer to the painting, preventing it from getting damaged by dust and dirt.

Satin varnish is another option for acrylic paintings. It gives a slight sheen to the painting, which is not as shiny as the gloss varnish but not as dull as the matte varnish. Satin varnish is ideal for paintings that need a balanced finish.

In conclusion, the best varnish for acrylic painting depends on the artist's preference and the type of finish they want to achieve. It is important to choose a varnish that not only enhances the beauty of the painting but also provides protection to it.

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