Sealing and Varnishing Ampersand Panels
Sealing and varnishing your finished artwork on Ampersand panels is extremely important especially if you are framing without glass. Be sure to select a varnish that is appropriate to the type of paint you are using. Provided below are a few basic suggestions for sealing several commonly used mediums on Ampersand panels.

Watercolors & Gouache
Seal watercolors and gouache with several light coats of spray fixative, being careful to spray outdoors during warmer months or in a well ventilated and heated area during colder times of the year. Use Krylon® Matte Finish #1311 or Krylon® UV-Resistant Clear Coating #1309 (Matte) or #1305 (Gloss). The fixative seals the surface making it air, dirt and moisture resistant. For additional protection against scratches during transport and also ultraviolet light, follow the application of fixative with Golden® MSA UVLS or Golden® Polymer UVLS varnish – about 4 coats, brushed-on, leaves a very durable archival finish.

Oils
Ampersand panels do not lessen the drying time required for oil paints before varnishing. Allow the oil painting to dry for at least 6 months before applying the varnish. Use a varnish like Gamblin’s Gamvar. Unlike varnishes made from natural resins like damar and mastic, Gamvar does not yellow with age or become more difficult to remove. It contains a UV stabilizer and offers some measure of protection to less lightfast pigments, depending on how thickly it is applied.

Acrylics
Acrylic paint does not need to be varnished unless a high gloss is desired. If using thin layers of paint or if some areas of the panel are left unpainted, a light coat of an acrylic varnish like Golden® MSA UVLS or Golden® Polymer UVLS varnish is advised.

Pastels
Sealing pastels with spray fixative tends to deaden the color of the pigments, so we recommend framing pastels behind glass. The glass protects the fragile nature of the pastels while also keeping their colors true.

Sealing Scratchbord™ (Claybord Black)
Seal Scratchbord™ with a spray fixative like Krylon® UV Resistant Clear Coating #1309 (Matte) or #1305 (Gloss). It will remove any and all fingerprints or smudges and protects the surface from dirt and water. First, remove all loose dust and debris from the surface with a soft brush. Then, spray with 2 - 3 coats as directed on the can.