Glazes and varnishes are the final layer added to surfaces before the production opens. They are used to protect the artwork to make it look the same in 50 performances time as it did on opening night. Like primers you need to be aware of the qualities of the glaze or varnish you have chosen and what it is for. Some questions to consider:

  • Does the surface have a lot of traffic on it (such as a floor)?
  • Does the glaze need to be water resistant?
  • What sheen level is required?
  • Do I need it to dry quickly?

As with all makes of glaze the most prevalent problem is ‘blooming’. This is nearly always caused by poor drying conditions especially when the glaze is applied late in the day and left to dry in a cold workshop overnight. The situation is worsened if the base paint has not thoroughly dried and moisture is trying to migrate out through the glaze. In many cases the bloom will gradually disappear. A gentle heat from a hair drier will normally indicate whether the glaze will recover or if the area needs re-painting.

Flints emulsion glaze

Glaze

Flints Glaze gives a good gloss level from the Gloss and a low reflectance from the Matt Glaze. It can be used as a mixer with scenic paints for extra strength and more translucency to your colour. Its easy to apply with brush or roller and it can be sprayed. It can be lightly mopped or wiped with a cloth but it is not durably water resistant. Good value and a good product for its price range

Drying Time: 1 hour touch dry

Coverage: 15-20 square metres per litre.

Sheen: Gloss or Matt

Price (ex VAT): £25.17/ 5L from Flints

Bona Mega
Bona mega

A new generation water based polyurethane, modified with natural vegetable oils using self-crosslinking technology to provide you with a one component system.

“On very pale floors Mega will draw out the colours in the same way as a solvent based varnish. Tests showed only very slight discolouration on white or pastel painted floors but users should carry out their own tests before working on very pale floors.” – Flints

Very easy to apply with brush, roller or spray. It also makes a very good metallic paint when mixed with metallic powder. It is low odour and water soluble.

Drying Time: Re-coatable in 2.5-3 hours, light use in 24 hours, full cure in 7 days.

Coverage:  8 – 10 square metres per litre per coat.

Sheen: Gloss, Silk Matt or Extra Matt

Price (ex VAT): £72.14/ 5L from Flints or £59.95 from Smith and Rodgers