Відео

Thank you so much! I’m glad you like the color and transparency of the varnish!

I personally use lactic casein as a protein-based sealer, but other types of proteins can work just as well. The choice of sealer often comes down to personal preference and the desired final effect on the instrument.

Thanks for your questions! Check out my latest video on how I prepare the violin before varnishing. As for colored varnish, yes, it is available on the market, but many luthiers, including myself, prefer to prepare and mix our own pigments and dyes to achieve a more personalized and unique result.

Thanks for your question! For the final coat of varnish, I actually dilute it heavily with alcohol. This helps keep the brush flowing smoothly and allows for a more controlled and even application.

Thanks for your feedback!😊

Thank you so much! I’m glad you appreciate the instrument!

I use a brush with sable hair. Their quality and elasticity make them perfect for achieving a smooth and even finish.

LOL

Thank you!!

Thanks for watching!

Capisco il tuo dubbio ma questa verniciatura è effettivamente a base di alcol. La finitura liscia deriva dalla tecnica di applicazione, non dal tipo di vernice. Padroneggiare la tecnica può far sembrare una vernice ad alcol liscia come una vernice ad olio. Grazie per il tuo commento!

It’s casein

Thanks for the compliment! Indeed, it may look like oil because of the smooth finish, but the secret isn't just in the varnish recipe-it's all about the technique of application. Mastery in applying the varnish can make all the difference. Glad you liked it!

Thanks for your feedback! I understand your point about the role of f-holes. Stay tuned, and thanks again for the suggestion!

Thank you for your feedback. While this video focused primarily on the application technique, I agree that the preparation of the wood, the UV treatment, and the mixing of varnishes are all critical elements. The application technique, however, is what I believe truly distinguishes a masterful finish-it's more about how the varnish is applied than just what is used. Each stroke is deliberate and precise, contributing significantly to the final result. I appreciate your perspective and will consider highlighting more of the process in future videos to provide a more comprehensive view!

Thanks for your feedback!

I guess it's probably red not orange😊

Thanks a lot! Yes, it's orange. Using orange can be tricky, but I'm happy with how it turned out here. It's great to hear you liked it! 😊

@@MarcoOsioViolinmaker great work 👍

It's wonderful to hear that the video helped you reconnect with Suk's Serenade! It's a piece that I find complements the artistry of violin making perfectly. Glad you enjoyed it!

Yes, thank you for putting it on. This piece continues the line of the great Serenades such as the Dvorak, Tschaikovski and Elgar in a worthy way. It's mood is so utterly positive! @@MarcoOsioViolinmaker

In my opinion, what really influences the sound is the thickness of the varnish. A coat that's too thick can dampen the violin's sound, while an overly thin layer might not only make the sound louder, but also somewhat coarse. The key is finding the right balance to enhance the natural qualities of the instrument.

Great point, thanks for bringing it up! I wanted to let the visuals speak in this video, but it sounds like there's interest in a deeper dive. I'm saving those explanations for future videos - guess you'll have to subscribe and see! Appreciate your curiosity and engagement.

Thank you for your insightful comments. They've given me great ideas for future videos, where I can delve into specific details like wood preparation and the various materials used in the process. To answer one of your questions, you're right - it's definitely not polyurethane. In violin making, we typically use more traditional, often natural, varnishes. I'll make sure to cover these topics in more depth in upcoming videos. Stay tuned and thanks again for your curiosity and suggestions!

Thank you for your comment. You're right, I focus on crafting instruments without antiquing, as neither Strad nor del Gesù used this technique. In replicating the Brusilow, I aimed for precision in the arching and corners but chose not to replicate its asymmetries. Regarding Bergonzi models, I haven't built any instruments based on them yet, but it's certainly an intriguing prospect!

It’s a simple mixture of alcohol and transparent varnish, in ratio 10:1

@@MarcoOsioViolinmaker Do you only use shellac and alcohol? Although I apply it almost like yours, I use shellac and alcohol, it is not as beautiful as yours. 😞

Using only shellac and alcohol can indeed be limiting. In my process, I incorporate other resins like mastic and sandarac, which can make a significant difference in the results. These resins add unique qualities to the varnish, enhancing both the appearance and the sound of the instrument. It's all about finding the right balance and combination that works for you. Keep experimenting and you might find your ideal mix!

That's a wonderful personal connection! Thank you for sharing your comment!

Thank you for your input! It's great to hear you enjoyed the Guarneri's rich and deep tone.

Thank you for your detailed observation and preference for the Strad model. It's intriguing to note your thoughts on the brightness and potential of the instrument as it matures. Your feedback, especially about the A string, is valuable!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! It's interesting to hear about your preference for Guarneri and your experiences with Strad copies. Observing a musician's connection with an instrument is indeed insightful!!

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm glad you appreciate the viola. Stay tuned for more!

Thank you for the compliment! At 10:28, I start applying a mixture of alcohol with a bit of transparent varnish, in a ratio of about 10 to one. This helps to bring out the shine and really make the violin's finish pop.

​@@MarcoOsioViolinmakerOh, really interesting And does it only work when you sand down the previous layer before applying the mixture? I commissioned a violin from a luthier here in Brazil, he said he uses turpentine and grease-based pigments, and that the varnish is less dense and rigid, making it absorb more light, therefore not so reflective as oil varnish I wonder if he could use that last part of the process you did (sand and apply the mixture of alcohol and transparent varnish), in order to give the violin that beautiful shiny look the violins from the old masters have

Yes, this technique works best on a sanded surface for better adhesion and finish. As for your luthier's method in Brazil, using turpentine and grease-based pigments is quite common and does affect the light absorption and reflectiveness of the varnish. Each luthier has their unique approach, and it’s possible for your luthier to try similar techniques for an antique look. Hope your new instrument turns out beautifully!

@@MarcoOsioViolinmaker Thank you, Marco. I appreciate your kindness and patience

​@@MarcoOsioViolinmaker Thank you for your sharing! but I'd like to confirm once again and raise a small question: Is the ratio 10:1 for alcohol and resin, or is it for alcohol and transparent varnish?

Thank you for your kind words! Indeed, getting the right consistency of the varnish is crucial. As for the sealer, I actually use casein rather than albumin. Casein provides a reliable and consistent base for the subsequent layers of varnish, ensuring both the quality and the durability of the finish.

@@MarcoOsioViolinmaker so casein works with spirit varnish

Great question! I primarily use natural dyes such as turmeric, gamboge (gum gutta), dragon's blood, sandalwood, and ratanhia. All these colors are alcohol-extracted to ensure the best quality and adherence to the traditional methods of violin varnishing. Thanks for your interest in the details of my craft!

@@MarcoOsioViolinmaker muito bonita essa cor vermelha, eu quero extrair da raiz de robbia, parabéns pelo trabalho muito bonito, se puder fale mais Muito obrigado

Por que nao se esforça em perguntar numa lingua que ele fale? Fazê-lo usar google translate sendo que você no mínimo deveria estar usando, ja' que faz perguntas. @@jonatasestevan124

Indeed, there are two secrets revealed here: The first is the technique of using the brushes, a skill honed over years of practice. The second, and perhaps most important, is patience. Both are essential in the art of violin varnishing. Thanks for watching the video!

How much times do you polish after which layers?

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the visual ASMR aspect of it. Appreciate your comment and support!