Finishing an acrylic painting on canvas involves several steps to protect and enhance your artwork. While some artists choose not to varnish their acrylic paintings, applying a sealant offers several benefits, including protection from dust, UV damage, and enhancing the overall vibrancy.
Protecting Your Acrylic Painting
The decision of whether or not to seal your acrylic painting is ultimately a personal one. Some sources, like the Smithsonian, suggest against varnishing. However, many artists find that adding a protective layer enhances the longevity and appearance of their work.
Choosing a Sealant
If you decide to varnish, you have options regarding the type of finish:
- Gloss: Provides a high shine and emphasizes details.
- Satin: Offers a subtle sheen, reducing glare while still enhancing color.
- Matte: Creates a non-reflective, flat finish.
The choice depends on your preference and the overall aesthetic of your painting. Many artists use a combination of finishes, such as applying a gloss coat first followed by a satin coat for a balanced look. For example, one artist uses "GOLDEN Polymer Varnish with UVLS in a combination of gloss finish and satin finish".
Application Process
Regardless of the type of varnish chosen, follow these general steps:
- Ensure the painting is completely dry. This is crucial to prevent the varnish from reacting with the wet paint. Allow several hours or even days for complete drying.
- Apply thin, even coats. Avoid heavy application which can lead to drips and uneven finish. Use a wide, soft-bristled brush for even coverage. Some artists prefer using a spray varnish for a quick and consistent application, ensuring a well-ventilated space for this method.
- Allow ample drying time between coats. Typically, a minimum of 6 hours between coats is recommended. This ensures each layer cures properly before applying the next.
- Apply multiple coats as needed to achieve desired protection and sheen. A few coats (at least two) are usually sufficient, especially with a quality varnish.
Beyond Varnishing: Additional Considerations
After varnishing (or if you choose not to varnish), you might want to consider adding a dust cover to the back of your canvas for added protection, which helps to keep dust and debris from affecting your artwork over time.
