Handyman Guide > Varnish

Varnish resembles oil paint in many ways, but it has no color pigment and, consequently, produces a more or less transparent film when dry. Another characteristic of varnish is that it will "flow out" after it has been applied, and the brush marks will disappear.



Varnish is made of linseed oil and a fossil gum. It is ideal for furniture, floors, and for exterior and interior woodwork. There are many different kinds of varnish, developed for specific jobs, but only a few of the more important ones will be covered in this section.

Spare varnish is used for exterior work. It is very tough, resists weather, and dries rather quickly. It is very elastic and can withstand temperature changes well. The name derives from the fact that it was, and still is, used for protecting spars of ships. Spar varnish can be used for interior woodwork but is not very satisfactory on floors.

Floor varnish has the quick-drying characteristics of spar varnish, combined with the toughness and elasticity required for endurance and for protecting the wood flooring. This elasticity of floor varnish prevents it from be~ng scratched easily by shoes or furniture.

Interior varnish is similar to spar varnish except that it is lighter in color and is not as hardy. It is, however, sufficiently strong and resilient to withstand the dampness and normal temperature changes that take place inside the house. Interior varnish should not be used for exterior work or for floors.

Furniture varnish includcs many kinds used by cabinetmakers. Some of these will produce a high-gloss finish without rubbing.

Enamel. Enamel resembles varnish except that a pigment is added to give coloring. Enamel must be applied with the same care that is used for varnish. Enamels come in either dull or glossy finish and can be used for both interior and exterior work, and for furniture. It has the advantage of drying without brush marks.

Enamel undercoater is used as the base paint for enamel. This undercoater penetrates into the wood pores and provides a smooth' surface for the enamel. A flat wall paint can be used for this purpose, too.

Lacquer. Lacquer is a vcry quickdrying finish, usually made from nitrocellulose. Lacquer should not be applied over oil paints and varnishes because it acts as a remover and softens the undercoat. Lacquer is an exccllent finish for metal work, such as brass, that will tarnish if left exposed. There are some kinds of lacquer that can be put on with a brush, but the others should be applied with a spray gun because they dry so quickly.

Shellac. Shellac is made by dissolving a gum obtained from insects in denatured alcohol. The common mixture is four pounds of shellac to, one gallon of denatured alcohol. This is called a "four pound cut" and is generally too heavy for most jobs. It can be thinned by adding more denatured alcohol. Shellac is a quick-drying finish but it is brittle and does not wear particularly well. Moisture will turn shellac white. Shellac can be bought in either white or orange.

Continue to Water Paint and Plastic Paint



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