Mural Painting: Finishing
FINAL PROTECTIVE VARNISHES
After the mural is complete, a final protective varnish should be applied to extend the life of the mural and protect it from weathering, pollution and dirt. The varnish should be a removable type such as Liquitex® Soluvar to allow the removal of pollutants, dirt and graffiti.
Mural varnishing occurs in two steps:
1. Isolation varnish layer
2. Removable varnish layerSoluvar Gloss and Matte Final Picture Varnish Application
1. Apply 1-2 layers of Gloss Varnish as an isolation barrier. This barrier physically separates the painting from the Soluvar Varnish and seals the surface. This allows a more even application of Soluvar Varnish and protects the painting surface when the Soluvar Varnish needs to be removed.
2. To insure proper adhesion, clean surface with a lint free rag lightly dampened with mineral spirits.
3. Apply 1-2 layers of Soluvar Varnish. Let dry 24 hours between coats.
Intermix Gloss and Matte Soluvar Varnish for a variety of sheens. Soluvar Matte Varnish contains matting agents that settle during storage. Gently stir with a wooden dowel or brush handle until completely re-dissolved. Do not shake.
Removing Soluvar Final Picture Varnish
- If the mural becomes dirty or abused, removing the varnish can restore it. Cleaning will not affect the underlying painting if the varnish was properly applied.
- Remove varnish in clean, well-ventilated area.
- Wear a duel filter respirator (NIOSH approved) and neoprene gloves. Dampen a small piece of lint free, soft, white cloth with mineral spirits (not "odorless") or turpentine — nothing stronger. Do not use ketones or paint removers.
- Work in small sections to assure procedure is working.
- Work horizontally. Apply mineral spirits generously and allow it to lay on surface for 15-30 minutes. Check periodically. Longer times may be necessary, depending upon age of artwork and strength of mineral spirits. If varnish is not dissolving or dissolving slowly, use a higher strength mineral spirits or turpentine. Cover surface with plastic to slow down evaporation of mineral spirits. Stronger mineral spirits are not labeled as such, but have a stronger odor.
- Rub cloth gently over a 1 square-foot area until varnish starts to dissolve.
- Using a clean cloth and clean solvent, rub the area again to remove residue. Repeat this procedure for the entire area to be cleaned. If any paint color shows on the cloth, stop immediately and allow the surface to dry.
- Allow painting to dry before reapplying a fresh coat of Soluvar Final Picture Varnish.