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Do you have to spray something on acrylic paintings?

Do you have to spray something on acrylic paintings after you paint them?

Public Comments

1. Yes, acrylic paintings must be varnished. Acrylic paint remains porous even after it's cured. Use a good quality artist's varnish that won't yellow.
2. you don't have to. it's up to you.
3. yes
4. Professional artists spray a clear acrylic coating to protect the paint. Paint manufacturers like Liquitex make the coatings, usually with different finishes available such as gloss and satin. Or you can also brush on a clear acrylic coating finish. Do NOT use "varnish".
5. No. Acrylic varnishes do tend to give you a better finish though... http://pearlpaint.com/shop~ocID~8999~parentID~8993~categoryID~8672~layoutIndicator~horizontal.htm
6. OK this is the CORRECT ANSWER! You put on two coats of a water based high gloss or matt finish varnish and medium from Liquetex drying about three hours between coats. You do this because it brings the tone back to the colors which dull a bit when dried and it protects the painting. Then after 3 days you can apply a spray or a liquid varnish on as a finishing varnish if more shine or a glass like finish is desired. I brush on Liquitex Solvar varnish for oil and acrylics in gloss one to two coats. . You use a brush for the Palomar medium and follow your brush strokes to keep from getting streaks. Do it flat on a table, to avoid drips. Do not keep going over it or it will go cloudy in the dark areas and finally go slow with the brush ( a dry brush not damp from water) to avoid bubbling. There are other brands like Golden, but i prefer the liquitex.
7. Hi, Good answer from Ginger. I've never used Soluvar, but it has a very important characteristic : it's removable. I guess that it's also approved by curators Best regards, José http://theartabuser.blogspot.com