Replies

1. 
   Paul_Snyder | Sep 15, 2002 08:27pm | #1

   Greg,

   To make a wiping varnish all you have to do is add thinner until you get the consistency you like. With an oil-base varnish, you can use mineral spirits or naptha as the thinner. Naptha evaporates faster than mineral spirits.

   Paul

   F'burg, VA

2. 
   RW | Sep 15, 2002 09:34pm | #2

   Seems it wasn't that long ago that Jewitt did an article on this. I've used it since and it does seem to work well. I use SW Fast Dry oil varnish and thin with naptha, and took his recommendation and tried the VIVA brand untextured paper towells for application. Worked just dandy. You might be able to look into back issues and find the article for more gouge on his techniques, but it's pretty straightforward. Nice even strokes and fold the towel into about sixths.

3. 
   Dale | Sep 15, 2002 09:52pm | #3

   I've been "making" my own WV for a year or more now.  I thin with paint thinner <25% and apply.  Different brand need to be thinned somewhat differently.  If the varnish drags while you are wiping it on I add a dab more thinner.  It usually works out to about 15% thinned.  As your probably know....... you can be safe and thin the guts out of the varnish....... but, the finish is oh so thin.  Hence may take a dozen coats to equal 3-4 decents coats of properly thinned WV.

   The first coat I like to use about 50-50 as I mop the varnish on and let it set for 15+ minutes before wiping it off.  Once again, if it gets "tacky"  while working the varnish you need to add more thinner.  Or move to a cooler and somewhat wetter enviornment. 

   I have not used the naptha as a thinner.  My understanding is that if it dries quicker does the varnish have time to level out?? My guess it's another play with the mix?? I too would be interested in hearing about the naptha saga.

1. 
   bill_1010 | Sep 16, 2002 04:31am | #4

   I might be wrong, but isnt maloof's style a wiping varnish? its 1pt BLO, 1pt Satin Poly Varish and 1pt thinner. (i think thats it)

4. 
   HowardAcheson | Sep 16, 2002 07:14pm | #5

   The general recommendation is to start with about a 50/50 mixture of gloss varnish and either mineral spirits or naphtha. The naphtha will become tack free faster allowing additional coats to be applied sooner. I avoid using odorless paint thinner as it dries too slowly. Also, avoid semi-gloss or satin varnishes. The material in the varnish that makes it satin will not stay in suspension when the varnish is highly thinned. This can lead to streaking or milky appearing areas. Use clear and "finish the finish" to what ever gloss you want.