About
This varnish produces a hard non-yellowing, protective coating similar in appearance to Damar varnish. It is a final varnish that dries to a clear gloss finish, is quick drying and will increase the depth and intensity of acrylic colours. It is designed to give your painting that final glow. Strippable, the varnish re-dissolves in mineral turpentine, which has no effect on Matisse acrylic paints: thus a painting may be completely cleaned and re-varnished without affecting the paint. Ideal varnish for use in restoration work.

Use
Two coats are recommended to achieve a consistent high gloss finish. Allow the first coat of varnish to completely dry before applying the next coat. This product is also suitable for use over oil paints after they are completely dry (approximately 6-12 months). Follow the same rule of two coats to achieve a consistent gloss finish. Drying time is approximately 6-8 hours depending upon weather conditions. Over oil paints this varnish can also be used as a Retouch Varnish (a retouch varnish can be achieved with the addition of 80% mineral turps). Retouch Varnish is known as a temporary varnish. It gives the artist and indication of what dried colours would look like when wet, so the painting can be continued with colour accuracy. Retouch varnish is not a final varnish.

DISCLAIMER: Although Matisse Derivan products are formulated to the highest standards and extensively tested, we strongly recommend a small test be undertaken before any varnish is being applied to the final surface.

Clean up
It is recommended to clean your brush as soon as you finish the application. Always clean brushes with mineral turpentine first. This will remove most of the traces of varnish from the brush. Finish by using liquid or bar of soap in the palm of your hand and scrub the brush back and forth until you form a lather. Rinse well and let dry flat. Using soap and lukewarm water will condition the brushs hair and prevent it from becoming stiff after drying due to any turpentine (or other solvent) residue left on them.