How to Paint With a Paint & Varnish Mix

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Things You'll Need

  • Mixing varnish

  • Oil-based paint

  • Paint thinner

  • Paint stirrer

  • Paint brush or roller

  • Work rags

  • Fine grit sandpaper

  • Disposable container

You can mix paint and varnish to achieve a variety of painting techniques.

An oil-and-varnish mixture can speed up the curing time for art projects or for regular painting of walls or furniture. Mixing paint and varnish creates a material that takes a little longer to dry than paint alone. The varnish also adds a rich sheen and glossy texture to the paint. Use a ratio mixture of paint, varnish and paint thinner to prevent the mixture from becoming sticky or clumpy and allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying a new coat of paint and varnish mixture.

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Step 1

Mix the paint and varnish in a disposable container before painting. Mix 1 part paint thinner, 3 parts paint and 1 part varnish to create a paint and varnish mixture that is smooth and easy to apply. Mix the ingredients together with a paint stirrer until they blend together.

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Step 2

Dip a brush or roller into the paint mixture. Run the paint over the surface using thin coats. Allow each coat to dry for at least two hours before adding a new coat.

Step 3

Sand each coat lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper before applying the next coat of paint. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove paint dust residue. Apply three or four thin coats of paint.

Step 4

Allow the varnish and paint mixture to cure for two days before using the object.

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