So glad to have WB Varnish back again. Of all the shortages that popped up during the 'rona, this one was the most vexing (and due to the substitutes available...toxic).
Great question! The reason we recommend against storing mixtures is because they are prone to phase separation, and the varnish resin on the bottom becomes clumpy and difficult to stir back to a uniform consistency. This leads to an uneven application which will look blotchy, and detract from the artwork.
The Waterborne Varnish should level well, when applied generously and swiftly without overworking. For some artists there may be a tendency to continue brushing to remove brush marks, but that leaves less time for the wet product to level by itself. For an even application, we recommend using a soft but springy wash brush with synthetic bristles, and a narrow ferrule is very useful for varnishing. Between 1.5-2.5 inches is a good size for most average sized works. While we recommend a general dilution of 4 parts varnish to 1 part water, recent testing showed that 5 to 1 can help to reduce brush strokes in some cases. Definitely test for your application on a sacrificial surface before using on your final artwork.
Hello Femke, depending on the length of time and level of exposure to contaminates and pollution, all varnish discolors over time, which is why they are removable. Varnish is a deliberately temporary barrier between your painting and all the nasty stuff that would otherwise accumulate on its surface.
So glad to have WB Varnish back again. Of all the shortages that popped up during the 'rona, this one was the most vexing (and due to the substitutes available...toxic).
why im not allowed to store diluted mixtures? It's would be a waste if I've accidentally made too much.
Great question! The reason we recommend against storing mixtures is because they are prone to phase separation, and the varnish resin on the bottom becomes clumpy and difficult to stir back to a uniform consistency. This leads to an uneven application which will look blotchy, and detract from the artwork.
Does the varnish level out? Thanks
The Waterborne Varnish should level well, when applied generously and swiftly without overworking. For some artists there may be a tendency to continue brushing to remove brush marks, but that leaves less time for the wet product to level by itself. For an even application, we recommend using a soft but springy wash brush with synthetic bristles, and a narrow ferrule is very useful for varnishing. Between 1.5-2.5 inches is a good size for most average sized works. While we recommend a general dilution of 4 parts varnish to 1 part water, recent testing showed that 5 to 1 can help to reduce brush strokes in some cases. Definitely test for your application on a sacrificial surface before using on your final artwork.
Does this varnish yellow over time?
Hello Femke, depending on the length of time and level of exposure to contaminates and pollution, all varnish discolors over time, which is why they are removable. Varnish is a deliberately temporary barrier between your painting and all the nasty stuff that would otherwise accumulate on its surface.