Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish

I paint very thinly so it's important I protect my acrylic works with a varnish. This one is easy to apply (make sure you don't overbrush) it dries to an even shine, and lifts the dark colours. My works are on paper so it has to be flexible too, having tried many others this is the best available.

I varnished a large textured painting predominantly Mars Black - in hot weather - i.e. the worst scenario for getting a good finish with acrylic gloss varnish.. Not just for drying times but also milkiness over the black. BUT if you make sure all doors and windows are closed - also have a bucket of steamy water in the studio to add humidity - and apply fairly speedily with a large flat soft watercolour brush - you'll get an excellent result. The first couple of coats will look a bit patchy - but gently key the surface with 1200 silicon carbide paper between coats - and gradually you'll build up a high gloss finish. And don't worry - the milkiness dries clear - as long as you apply evenly and don't over brush. It says allow 3 hours between coats - but I'd leave it 24 hrs. So, if you want a high gloss finish on your acrylic painting - factor in an additional week to achieve this.

Does exactly what it says on the... er...bottle