What is the most popular varnish used by artists?

Question

I have been using Krylon Kamar Varnish to varnish my paintings, but not a lot of stores have it in stock. So I was wondering what varnish professional artists use. I'm sure many artists don't use cheap spray varnish. How do artists make their varnish look so good and professional looking? Just wondering. Thanks.

Answer 1

I use Winsor & Newton Gloss Varnish for oils. A little pricey, but worth it.

Answer 2

Grumbacher, Damar varnish,comes in gloss and semi gloss.
This is an easy to use spray varnish.
Not sure of the long lasting qualities of this, time will tell for me.
One thing to remember is that before spraying or brushing on a varnish is to make sure the painting is clean, no dust etc. and that the painting is thoroughly dry, at least 6 months , preferably 12 months.

Answer 3

I haven't used varnish in years. Most of the other artists I know don't either. I use Clear Coat. It comes in many brands and is an acrylic-based clear paint and it doesn't 'yellow' over the years like oil-based varnish.

Krylon is the most popular brand, for both Varnish and Acrylic Clear Coats.

But if you want to use varnish you can either order your varnish from your local art supply store (they'll be happy to order it for you) or you can buy it directly from places like Dick Blick or Pearls on-line or by phone. They'll ship it to you and at a cheaper price than you'll pay at your local store.

Answer 4

Good varnish must be removeable - check the label! Cheap varnish isn't worth ruining a painting!

Golden makes a Mineral-Solvent Acrylic (MSA) varnish that works for both oils and acrylics, is non-yellowing, is UV-resistant, is removeable, is expensive, is very worth it.

On acrylics, always use an isolation coat so the varnish can be removed if the painting needs to be restored.