Yes, you can put clear varnish on gloss paint.
Understanding Varnish Over Gloss
Applying clear varnish over gloss paint is a practice that has been utilized, particularly in traditional finishing techniques. It is theoretically possible and historically grounded.
As the reference states: "In theory, you can varnish over gloss; it's what old-school coach painters and sign-writers would do to get a durable, high-gloss finish."
This historical application highlights the primary reasons for doing so:
- Durability: Varnish provides an additional protective layer, enhancing the lifespan and resistance of the painted surface against wear and tear.
- High-Gloss Finish: For applications where a very high level of shine was desired, layering varnish on top of gloss paint helped achieve this aesthetic.
Historical Context
The use of varnish over gloss paint by coach painters and sign-writers demonstrates that this method was considered effective for specific, demanding applications where both aesthetics and resilience were crucial. These crafts often required finishes that could withstand exterior elements and frequent cleaning while maintaining a polished appearance.
Using varnish in this way built upon the inherent shine of the gloss paint, adding depth and protection.
Key Takeaway
Based on historical practice in trades like coach painting and sign-writing, applying clear varnish over gloss paint is a viable method to achieve increased durability and a heightened glossy finish.
