OK, I'm varnishing over a mix of acrylic and water-based oils.
I'm trying to be careful not to overwork the varnish, but I'm still getting bubbles.

Any help?

Woohoo an arts forum

Hey are shur this isn't a craft related question... just kidding

If your varnish is oil based you can use a torch(like used for plumbing) or heat lamp toget rid of the bubbles. Pass the heat over piece and the bubbles should dissappear. Don't let the flame touch the varnish, I guees a heat gun would work as well.

Don't know if this would work for water base paints

Just be careful not to set it on fire, and keep a fire exstinguisher nearby

Good Luck

Ummm... Kay......

To *avoid* having to break out the heavy duty firepower....

Varnish is just one of those things you have to be extremely careful with. Go slowly. you're right... don't over work it, but remember that applying a thin layer, and then another, and another... etc is the surest way to avoid getting bubbles. Make sure to let each layer dry completely. Do not rush varnish.

There is also the problem that where we live has a very high humidity level. I'm not really sure what advice to give on that...

vertigo25 wrote:Ummm... Kay......

To *avoid* having to break out the heavy duty firepower....

But I loves tools so.

that's me as well I've got more bravado than patience

Umm, spray varnish? Call me crazy.

Seraph Antaine wrote:Umm, spray varnish? Call me crazy.

Ew.


Nah... really I guess spray varnish is okay, but you don't have as much control as you do with brush... and the fumes from brush varnish are better

I have limited experience with varnish. However, I have found that I get bubbles when going over a surface to many times. Rough surfaces definitely seem to up the bubble factor. So my thoughts are:
* Use a high quality brush
* Use thin coats
* Try not to go over any one place more than about twice per coat.
Yes, I know the patience part sucks, but I think its the best way to go, unless you like the bubbles.
~Ex Mys