Violin Forum/Message Board

[dmarkel]

Hi everyone,
I’ve been working through making my first violin and I’ve just made a batch of varnish following the recipe for oil varnish in Making the Violin by Valtech Blahout. It turned out with a very nice dark colour but when it cooled, it is extremely thick and sticky—it would be impossible to brush on. I’d really appreciate any advice from the forum. I wonder if I can thin by adding more turpentine or if I need to start over.
Thanks in advance.

[DonLeister]

Hi, I'm not familiar with that recipe. How long does it stay workable?
Some oil varnishes are thick and sticky and are not brushable but can be applied with fingers or something like a makeup sponge.

[dmarkel]

Thanks for the reply, Don. I was able to warm the varnish and stir in some more turpentine and that seems to have done the trick. I made a second batch and watched my times and temperatures more carefully. I’m not sure of the working time but I will do some tests next.