How to Make Varnish Using PVA Glue

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

A simple varnish suitable for children's craft projects can be made using PVA glue and water.

Steps

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Set up the area.
    Cover the work surface with newspaper or other cover to protect it.
  2. Step 2 Use the ration of two thirds glue to one third water.
    The exact amount used will depend on the size of your craft project.[1]
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Pour two thirds of an amount of PVA glue into a mixing container.
    [2]
  4. Step 4 Pour in a third of water.
  5. Step 5 Mix the two ingredients together thoroughly.
    [3]
  6. Step 6 Apply to the craft object.
    The varnish goes on white and dries clear. It will protect artwork, decoupage, drawings and decorative elements attached to a craft project.[4]
    • Use a large artist's paintbrush to apply the PVA glue varnish.
  7. Step 7 Finished.
    8. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is this safe to use for chopsticks that will be used for eating?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    No, this is a simple varnish that will come off when exposed to moisture, and even non-toxic PVA glue is not suitable for consumption.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
     Thank you for your feedback.
     If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 11 Helpful 16
  • Question
    How do I use varnish on furniture?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    It's best to follow the care instructions on the varnish you buy. Do not use this DIY varnish, use specially labeled "furniture varnish" if you are painting your own furniture. This varnish, being diluted, rubs off easily and can wreck your furniture.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
     Thank you for your feedback.
     If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 8 Helpful 10
  • Question
    Is acrylic PVA able to be used on a fiber surface?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    This DIY is only made for crafts - nothing else. Instead, buy varnish specifically made for fiber surfaces.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
     Thank you for your feedback.
     If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 11
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement

Video

Tips

  • This varnish will adhere to plastic as well as cardboard, paper, ceramic and other surfaces. This makes it quite a useful varnish for craft projects made in plastic.
    Thanks
    Helpful 7 Not Helpful 5
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Submit
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Advertisement

Things You'll Need

  • PVA glue
  • Water
  • Mixing container
  • Brush or other item for mixing with

You Might Also Like

How to
Adhere Paper to Wood
How to
Apply Glitter to Wood
Fix Water Damaged Wood
How to
Get Rid of Water Stains and Repair Damaged Wood
Varnish Wood
How to
Varnish Wood
Dry Wood Slices Without Cracking
How to
Dry Wood Slices Without Cracking
Finish Live Edge Slabs
How to
Finish Live Edge Slabs
Stain PineThe Best Way to Stain and Finish Pine Wood
Cure Bamboo
How to
Cure Bamboo
Darken Wood
How to
Darken Wood
Make Whitewash
How to
Make Whitewash
How to
Apply Epoxy on Wood
Repair Rotted Wood
How to
Repair Rotted Wood
How to
Use Linseed Oil on Wood
How to
Age Wood With Vinegar and Steel Wool
Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.prima.co.uk/craft/easy-craft-ideas/news/a21431/get-started-decoupage/
  2. ↑ https://www.goodtoknow.co.uk/uncategorized/how-to-d-coupage-81111
  3. ↑ https://www.goodtoknow.co.uk/uncategorized/how-to-d-coupage-81111
  4. ↑ https://schoolgardening.rhs.org.uk/resources/activity/painted-pebbles

About This Article

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 167,525 times.
54 votes - 85%
Co-authors: 8
Updated: September 23, 2023
Views: 167,525
Categories: Wood Finishes and Treatments
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 167,525 times.

Did this article help you?

Advertisement