10 Best Varnish for Acrylic Paintings In 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide

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Acrylic paintings are a popular medium for artists, known for their vibrant colors, versatility, and fast-drying properties. However, it's important to apply a varnish to ensure that your artwork is protected and preserved over time. With so many options available, choosing the best varnish for your acrylic paintings can be overwhelming.

In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the different types of varnish, the pros, and cons of each, and offer tips for selecting the right varnish for your acrylic paintings.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish READ REVIEW Runner Up: Grumbacher Picture Varnish for Oil & Acrylic Paintings 2-1/2 Oz. Jar, #550-2 READ REVIEW Best Matte Varnish: Liquitex BASICS Matte Varnish, 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle READ REVIEW Best Professional-Grade: Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish, 8-oz READ REVIEW Best Clear Finish: Golden Archival Varnish Spray, 10 Oz, Matte READ REVIEW Best Versatility: Golden Archival Varnish Gloss 10 oz Spray Can READ REVIEW Best Ease of Use: Sargent Art 32 Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish READ REVIEW Best Budget-Friendly: Winsor & Newton Dammar Varnish, 75ml (2.5oz) READ REVIEW Best for Large Jobs: Radico Sealer Gloss Varnish 100 ml READ REVIEW Best for Outdoor Use: Cadence Acrylic Varnish - Water-Based Acrylic Varnish READ REVIEW

1. Best Overall: Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish

Why We Think It's Great

• ADDS VIBRANCY TO PAINT: This makes your art stand out and look even better.
• EASY TO CLEAN: Makes maintenance a breeze, leaving you with a flawless finish every time.
• WORKS ON MOST SURFACES: You can use it on various surfaces, including canvas, metal, wood, and more.
• IMPROVE IMPERFECTIONS: Gives your art a smooth and flawless finish.
• EXCELLENT VERSATILITY: You can mix it with acrylic or as a clear coat alone. 
• ACID-FREE: This helps to prevent your art from yellowing, fading, and deteriorating over time.

What We Don't Like

• A bit tacky but reworkable
• It may leave streaks when applied with an improper brush. 

What Our Editors Say

"We have always been looking for top-notch art supplies that deliver quality and affordability. And we have to say, Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish has exceeded our expectations! From the moment we started using this acrylic varnish, we appreciated the ease of application and the acid-free formula.

We also noticed that it protected our art and improved its vibrancy. But that's not all! This is also incredibly easy to clean and maintain, making it one of our favorite art supplies."

2. Runner Up: Grumbacher Picture Varnish for Oil & Acrylic Paintings 2-1/2 Oz. Jar, #550-2

Why We Think It’s Great

• NON-YELLOWING: Ensures that your surfaces will remain vibrant and bright for years.
• LONG LASTING: You won't have to reapply the product frequently, saving you time and money.
• NO CRACK GUARANTEED: It gives you peace of mind knowing that your surfaces are protected from damage and will maintain their appearance
• EASY APPLICATION: Saves you time and effort in completing your projects.

What We Don't Like

• Drying time may take 3 to 5 days.
• It may not be compatible with other matte paints.

What Buyers Say

"I've used this varnish for my oil and acrylic paintings and my paintings. So far, it has gone on well and has not yellowed. It goes a long way, so you don't have to use it very much. I put on several coats also. I love it."

3. Best Matte Varnish: Liquitex BASICS Matte Varnish, 250ml (8.4oz) Bottle

Why We Think It's Great

• DRIES CLEAR: You don’t have to worry about your paintings getting altered by a yellow or cloudy cast from the varnish.
• PROTECTS YOUR ARTWORK: By providing a durable and chip-resistant surface, this varnish helps to preserve your artwork for years to come.
• EASY TO SPREAD: You can save time and effort during the application process
• NO BUBBLES: Eliminates the need for time-consuming touch-ups or reapplication.
• NO BAD SMELL: Provides a more enjoyable varnishing experience and less disruption to your workflow. 
• VERSATILE: Allow you to mix it with some gloss varnish for an even more layered sheen finish for your acrylic paints.

What We Don't Like

• Leaves brush marks
• No instructions 

What Our Editors Say

“Some acrylic varnish turns yellow overtime, but this one is different. We have encountered some reviews about is getting clody when applied, but fortunately it didnt happened to our paintings. And that is one of the reasons why we chose to use this product.

It turned our acrylic paintings into a beautiful work of art that stood the test of time. The application process was also smooth and the end result was a clear, that made us buy more for future use.”

4. Best Professional-Grade: Liquitex Professional Gloss Varnish, 8-oz

Why We Think It's Great

• EASY TO APPLY: You don't need to use any special tools to apply it. 
• HIGH GLOSS FINISH: Creates a protective layer that helps to seal and preserve your painting, increasing its lifespan.
• QUICK DRY: It reduces the risk of any damage during the drying process.
• WATER-BASED: You can clean your hands and tools with soap and water.
• WEATHER-RESISTANT: You can ensure that your acrylic paints will not get wet when exposed to rain. 

What We Don't Like

• May need several layers for optimal results
• It may smear when applied to a not fully dry-surface.

What Buyers Say

"I wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. I've already used it on two paintings, and I only have good things to say about it. It makes my paintings pop and look so shiny. I'm definitely going to need a bigger bottle next time, haha. It only took about 20 mins for the varnish to dry on a 12x16 canvas. I 100% recommend this brand!"

5. Best Clear Finish: Golden Archival Varnish Spray, 10 Oz, Matte

Why We Think It's Great

• FINE MIST: You can ensure an even and consistent application.
• NO DISCOLORATION: This allows you to preserve the original appearance and quality of the art piece.
• INVISIBLE MATTE SURFACE: This won't ruin the glossy finish of your artwork.
• DUST AND MOISTURE RESISTANT: Ensures that your artwork remains in its original condition for years to come.

What We Don't Like

• It may not work with watercolor.
• It will not work with alcohol-based ink.

What Our Editors Say

"We were initially skeptical about using this matte varnish because we thought that since it is designed to spray, it might cause drips or leave a glossy finish that would detract from the natural beauty of our art pieces. However, after trying it out, we were pleasantly surprised by its performance.

The fine mist spray created an even and uniform coverage without drips, and the matte surface was completely invisible, leaving our art looking just as it did before. We also like that this product does not cause discoloration or yellowing; it gives us peace of mind knowing that our art will be protected and preserved for years to come."

6. Best Versatility: Golden Archival Varnish Gloss 10 oz Spray Can

Why We Think It's Great

• EASY TO USE: You can easily use it without prior experience.
• DRIES FAST: You can prevent smudging and any damage during application. 
• EVEN COVERAGE: Ensures that your art will be fully covered and protected for the years to come. 
• WORKS WITH WATERCOLOR:
• UV RESISTANT: Gives you peace of mind that your artwork is from fading or discoloration due to exposure to sunlight.

What We Don't Like

• The varnish has a strong odor. 

What Buyers Say

"I always make sure to have at least 2 cans of Golden Acrylic Glossy Spray Varnish around because of how much I love using them to seal my acrylic paintings. It's super easy to use (make sure to do it in a well-ventilated space!) and dries fairly quickly."

7. Best Ease of Use: Sargent Art 32 Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish

Why We Think It's Great

• EASY TO APPLY: It glides smoothly on the surface, making it easier to apply even for beginners.
• GREAT COVERAGE: Provides even coverage and helps to hide imperfections and blemishes, leaving a flawless finish.
• EXCELLENT CONSISTENCY: Allows for mixing and blending with ease.
• QUICK DRY: Allows you to get on with your day without worrying about smudging or transferring.
• EASY TO DISPENSE: Comes with a flip-top cap that makes it easy to control the amount of product used, reducing waste and saving you time and money.
• TRANSPARENT FINISH: It leaves no discoloration when dry making your art preserved. 
• GOOD ADHESIVE STRENGTH: Ensures that it stays put for a long time without fading or smudging.

What We Don't Like

• The bottle is not filled to the top.
• It may leave some streaks when not applied properly. 

What Our Editors Say

“We just can't get enough of Sargent Art Varnish! It makes varnishing acrylic paintings so effortless. The smooth application and flawless finish are a dream come true. And the consistency is just perfect - not too thick or too thin, which makes working with it a breeze.

The quick dry formula saves us a ton of time, and the flip-top cap ensures we don't waste any product. If we have more projects to work on, we would definitely choose Sargent Art Varnish again and again."

8. Best Budget-Friendly: Winsor & Newton Dammar Varnish, 75ml (2.5oz)

Why We Think It's Great

• WATER-BASED: You don't have to use special cleaners to wash out the varnish from your hands. 
• FLAWLESS FINISH: Leaves no streaks, increasing the value of your artwork, and making it more attractive to potential buyers and collectors.
• WORKS WITH VARIOUS MIXED MEDIA: You can use it with various mediums, including oil and acrylic.
• FAST DRYING: Allows you to move on to the next step in your creative process without long wait times.
• LESS ODOR: This makes it a great choice for artists sensitive to strong fumes.

What We Don't Like

• The bottle is hard to open.
• It may be hard to clean off from the brush if left unclean for longer.

What Buyers Say 

"Quick drying and coats evenly. What more can an artist ask for? The solution spreads easily (use a disposable brush, though). Makes my oil paintings look way more professional."

9. Best for Large Jobs: Padico Sealer Gloss Varnish 100 ml

Why We Think It's Great

• INTERMIXABLE: You can mix it with other colored paints 
• WATER-RESISTANT: Makes it suitable for outdoor painting set-up.
• LARGE BOTTLE: Comes in a 100ml bottle, making it lasts for multiple applications.
• WORKS FOR MOST SURFACE: You can coat surfaces, including clay, wood, paper, leather, metal, and cloth.
• COST EFFECTIVE: Provides a glossy finish in just one coat without needing multiple layers.

What We Don't Like

• The cap is not a flip-top design.

What Our Editors Say

"We're big fans of outdoor painting, and this varnish ticks all the boxes for us. No more worrying about rain ruining our masterpieces! Plus, it's super versatile and works on a variety of surfaces.

The only downside is that the cap isn't the most convenient, but that's a small complaint when considering all the benefits. With a big bottle and one-coat application, it's easy to see why we consider this one of the best varnish products around."

10. Best for Outdoor Use: Cadence Acrylic Varnish - Water-Based Acrylic Varnish

Why We Think It's Great

• SAFE TO USE: The varnish has no harmful substances, making it safe for everyone, including children and pets.
• EASY TO CLEAN: You can use a wet cloth to clean the varnish, which makes cleaning a breeze.
• WATERPROOF: Ensures your paintings will stay protected from the elements.
• PROTECTION GUARANTEED: Ensures that your paintings will last for years to come.
• AFFORDABLE: Makes it accessible to artists and hobbyists of all levels

What We Don't Like

• May need to apply two or more coats to achieve the desired results

What Our Editors Say

“This varnish has been a game-changer for us! Not only does it have a cool purple label on the bottle, but it's also super versatile and works great on our acrylic paintings and our wood crafts. And the best part? It's super affordable compared to other similar products on the market.

We even bought a big bottle that lasted us for several projects! We're also thrilled to use it safely with our kids - which is super important since we love doing art projects together. It's great to know that our products are safe for them.”

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish stands out as the best overall choice in the roundup due to its amazing features. Not only does it add vibrancy to your paintings, but it also makes maintenance a breeze with its easy-to-clean formula.

This versatile varnish works on a variety of surfaces and can even be used to improve imperfections, giving your artwork a smooth and flawless finish. With all these benefits, it's no wonder why Sargent Art 22-8808 16-Ounce Acrylic Gloss and Varnish is the best overall choice.

Best Varnish for Acrylic Paintings Buying Guide

With so many options on the market, it's important to understand what to look for to ensure you make an informed decision that will help you achieve the desired outcome for your artwork. Here are some of the important factors:

• Compatibility

If you want to ensure that your artwork remains vibrant and protected for years to come, you should choose a varnish specifically formulated for acrylic paint. Incompatible varnish can cause the paint to turn yellow, crack, or become brittle over time, compromising the appearance and longevity of your artwork.

• Type of Varnish

According to Bill Morgan of Studyinghood, “when it comes to choosing the best varnish for your acrylic painting, there’s a wide range of options to consider.  For example, spray varnish is the most popular type of varnish used for acrylic paintings. It’s easy to apply, dries quickly, and provides excellent protection against dust, dirt, and UV rays.

Brush-on varnish is a great way to achieve a matte or glossy finish depending on your preference. It’s particularly useful for detailed areas of your painting that require more precision. The downside is that it can take a longer time to dry than spray varnish and can be messier to apply.

• Type of Finish

When choosing a varnish for your acrylic painting, the type of finish is a big deal. Do you want it matte or glossy? This is important because it can completely change the look of your artwork. You can choose two types of acrylic varnish: acrylic resin varnish and acrylic polymer varnish.

If you want a glossier, stronger, and clearer finish, acrylic polymer varnish is the way to go. On the other hand, if you want a high-gloss finish, you should go for an acrylic resin varnish.

• Drying Time

When choosing a varnish for your acrylic painting, don't forget to think about the drying time. Some varnishes dry fast, while others can take a while to dry, up to several days. Make sure you choose a varnish with a drying time that works for you and your schedule.

And be patient! It's important to give the varnish enough time to dry completely before touching your painting or exposing it to any dirt or other elements.

• Durability

When buying varnish for your acrylic painting, it's important to consider how long you want it to last. Durability is a key factor to consider because it affects the longevity of your artwork. A durable varnish will help protect your painting from dust, fading, and yellowing over time, preserving its beauty for years to come.

On the other hand, a varnish that is not durable may not be able to withstand the test of time and could deteriorate, leaving your painting vulnerable to damage. So, choose wisely!

• Cost

Cost is always a consideration when making any purchase; varnish for acrylic paintings is no exception. While you want to ensure you're getting a high-quality product that will protect and enhance your artwork, you also don't want to break the bank.

Don't compromise on quality for the sake of cost, but don't overspend on features you don't need either. Do your research and find the right balance of cost and quality for your varnish needs.

Acrylic Painting Varnish FAQ

What is the difference between acrylic resin varnish and acrylic polymer varnish?

Acrylic resin and polymer varnishes are both commonly used to protect and enhance acrylic paintings. However, there are some key differences between the two. In general, acrylic resin varnishes are more glossy, durable, and transparent than acrylic polymer varnishes.

On the other hand, acrylic polymer varnishes have a more subtle, satin finish and are better suited for paintings with a more textured or impasto surface. They are also easier to work with and less likely to yellow over time.

What is the difference between gloss and satin varnish acrylic painting?

A glossy finish enhances the vibrancy of colors, while a matte finish softens the color tones and reduces glare. A satin finish, on the other hand, is a compromise between glossy and matte. You can mix matte and gloss varnishes to achieve a semi-gloss appearance.

Which varnish is better glossy or matte?

The better varnish depends on the desired outcome for your acrylic painting. However, glossy varnish is often chosen because it makes colors appear more vibrant, while matte varnish will reduce glare and soften colors. 

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