Varnishes & Fixatives: The Final Step for a Lasting Finish
A varnish or fixative is the last layer of protection your artwork receives. Varnishes seal and protect finished paintings from dust, UV light and moisture, while enhancing or unifying the surface sheen. Fixatives lock in dry media such as pencil, pastel, charcoal and chalk, preventing smudging and preserving the integrity of your work. DeSerres carries a complete selection of varnishes and fixatives suited to a wide range of painting and drawing techniques.
Varnish or Fixative: Which Does Your Work Need?
Varnishes are applied to finished paintings, typically acrylic or oil, once the paint is fully cured. They come in gloss, matte and satin finishes and can be removed for conservation purposes if needed. Isolation coats are applied before varnishing to protect the paint layer. Fixatives are used on dry media work: a light workable fixative can be applied between layers to stabilize the surface, while a final fixative seals the finished piece. Some fixatives are formulated specifically for pastel, charcoal or graphite. Always test on a small area before applying to a finished work. Explore our Acrylic Paint, Pencils & Pastels and our full Mediums, Varnishes & Resins collection for more options.