Retouch Varnish
Temporary varnish for oil paintings six months or younger.
Revives dull areas caused by sinking-in of paint.
Helps adhesion of subsequent paint layers.
Dries to a satin finish.
Constituents:
Paraloid B67 Resin, Artists White Spirit.
Product code:
016
Retouch Varnish Product Information
Product Application
Langridge Retouch Varnish may be applied to touch dry oil paintings
Artists oil colours dry by absorbing oxygen. For full drying this process generally takes between 3-6 months although it can take longer with extremely thick paint films (5mm or thicker). When a painting has a dry surface film (touch dry) it may be protected with the application of a temporary varnish that will allow the passage of oxygen to the oil paint and continue the successful full drying of the painting.
A final picture varnish applied before the 3-6 month drying period will prevent thorough oxygen absorption leading to potential oil paint film failure due to erratic drying.
To ascertain whether the paintings’ surface is dry and can receive a varnish without disturbing the colours, take a clean white, lint-free cloth and dampen with Distilled Gum Turpentine. Choose an inconspicuous part of the painting (e.g. corners) and gently rub 2-3 times with the damp cloth. Examine the cloth to see if any discernable quantity of colour has been removed. If colour appears on the cloth the paintings’ surface is still not dry and should be left for a few more days and the process repeated. When very little or no colour is present on the cloth the Retouch Varnish may be applied.
It should be noted that because Retouch Varnish has very low-solids it does not significantly alter reflective qualities. If a painting has major differences in gloss/matte reflection Retouch Varnish will not even these out. Retouch Varnish applied over a gloss painting will retain its gloss reflection.
Langridge Retouch Varnish is made by dissolving Paraloid B67 resin in Artist’s White Spirit to make a liquid. Brush or spray applied over paintings, the solvent will evaporate, leaving a thin, even coat of the resin.