protecting my own acrylic painting from fading.

baby fish

Hi:D

I've finished an acrylic painting, its on a canvas board,

Do I need to protect it from fading when its hanging on the wall or will it be ok?

My research has pointed towards putting a layer of varnish on it, I presume this is normal wood varnish?

is this the easiest way to protect it from fading?

Wibbs

Acrylic pigments tend to be very colourfast, but a varnish would help. You'll need a specific acrylic varnish rather than a wood varnish(many are polyurethane which will tint your picture and you don't want that ).

paulap

varnish will protect the surface from air grime and retain the colour. wood varnish could be used on a darker colour theme but clear matt or gloss acrylic varnish is best, woodies has a spray varnish i use which is quite easy. also ensure direct light doesnt fall on it as this can change the colour easily.
for a cheap alternative pva and water works also

davemc6832

Ye you can buy acrylic varnishes in a variety of finishes from any art supplies store. Also buy the best quality paint and canases you can afford,
artist quality acrylics will fade alot less over time and also hold their colour better as they contain more pigment than the cheaper
student quality paints. Some of the new student paints are pretty good for most uses though especially if you're not planning on selling your
work. Hope that helps.

davemc6832

Also try keep it out of direct strong sunlight