What makes the difference betweem the various sheens of finishes. I was wondering if the amount of solvent is the factor since I can detect some difference when you a solvent to thin poly. Thank you Blaine
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An additive is added to the paint or varnish, they are called flatting agents. These are a very finely ground powder that difract light. Its not the solvents. One of the more common agents is silica. You can often see the substance since it typically falls to the bottom of the can. When you stir up a can of satin poly, for example, it will change from clear to somewhat milky, that's the flatting agent being redispersed. The amount of it gives you the difference between semi-gloss, satin and matte. Its like a recipe. When you add solvents, you change the recipe proportions. That's why you may see a difference, you have increased the volume of liquid, thereby decreasing the amount of flatting agent.
Many thanks Hammer. Makes sense that the added solvent would change the mixture. Blaine
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