Varnishes

What Is The Best Way To Apply Varnish?

Varnish is a product that can be applied on furnishings, but it is also used as a finish for many crafts. If you are working with varnish for the first time, there are some things to take into consideration. So, if you are not used to working with varnish, be sure to check out our recommendations below.

How Do I Prepare For The Varnishing Process?

There are some things you need to do before you can start varnishing. One of the first thing you need to do is prepare the wood. One of the ways to prepare the wood is by using sandpaper, this will remove any imperfections from the wood and ensures a nice and clean result.

Please note that there are different types of sandpaper that can be used to prepare wood. For example, if you are working with a stained wood, then you will need a heavier and more powerful sandpaper to get the desired result.

To ensure the wood is completely free of irregularities, always use your sandpaper with the grain of the wood. Going against the wood grain can cause more imperfections or an uneven result.

Once you have prepared the wood, it is essential to clean your workspace before you start working with your varnish. Varnish can provide an outstanding finish on any wood, but it is susceptible to dust and other environmental factors, this is why it is so important to keep your workspace clean before you start.

What Equipment Do I Need For The Varnishing Process?

Varnishing only requires some basic equipment. For the best result, we recommend an oil-based varnish, a paintbrush with natural bristles, a stick (for stirring), measuring cup, turpentine, and some rubber gloves. If you are susceptible to fumes and strong smells, we also recommend a ventilator mask.

Do I Need To Do Anything Special With The Varnish Before Applying It?

It is essential to prepare the varnish before you apply it. Open the container of varnish and then use your stirring stick. Stir the varnish slowing until you get more even consistency. Please note, never stir your varnish too quickly, as this could cause an accumulation of air in your varnish. Evidently, these air bubbles could influence the results once the varnish is applied.

One should never apply varnish to the wood as it comes out of the container. Instead, you should use a mixture of varnish and some turpentine. The best combination is usually 1/4 of turpentine compared to your amount of varnish.

How Do I Apply Varnish To My Chosen Wood?

Once you have prepared your varnish properly, it is time to apply it to your wood. Put your paintbrush lightly in the varnish mixture. Then, add the varnish to the wood with the paintbrush. During this process, it is important to work with the grain of the wood, not against the grain of the wood, this will provide the best result.

As we mentioned earlier, varnish can have a bit of a smell. Contact with the hands should also be avoided, as varnish can become quite sticky. So, do not forget to wear dedicated gloves and a ventilator mask against the fumes and the stickiness of your varnish.

What Is Tipping Off?

When you speak to someone who has varnished wood before, they may have mentioned the "tipping off" process. This process basically involves te removal of air bubbles when the varnish is still wet. Doing this process also ensures an even finish, so this must be done if you want to prevent streaks.

To tip off the surface of the wood, use the top of the brush on the surface of the wood. Use the tip of the brush gently and go with the grain of the wood.

Once you have applied two layers of varnish, you can sand the wood down again. Once the wood has been sanded down, you will apply the final layer of varnish.

Please note, you will need a considerable amount of drying time between each varnish layer. The average drying time for varnish products is six hours. However, some varnishes may require twenty-four hours or longer. Therefore, always refer to the product instructions before you use it.