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How to Make Oil Paintings Shiny

Enhancing the gloss of an oil painting by applying varnish will help to preserve the painting and keep it glossy for a long time. The process for varnishing an oil painting requires the patience to wait for the oil to dry and then carefully applying the right amount of varnish to the top layer of paint. When completed correctly, you will be left with an oil painting that shines with a brilliant luster.

Things You'll Need

  • Varnish
  • Cloth
  • Feather duster
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Instructions

    • 1

      Allow the oil painting to dry for an extended period of time. To be safe, store the painting in a safe location where it will not be subject to dust or debris. Cover the painting with a cloth that is set above the painting for one year. The minimum you should wait is six months. Consider framing the painting for this process.

    • 2

      Place the painting on a flat table and remove the covering. If there is any dust, lightly dust the painting using a feather duster.

    • 3

      Apply a thin layer of varnish to the top of the painting using a soft bristled paintbrush. Allow the painting to sit for 24 hours and then frame your painting.

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