After hours spent patiently, meticulously, and sometimes even proudly filling in each small numbered area, your paint-by-numbers picture is finally complete. But now you're faced with a question: should you varnish it or leave it as it is ? Is applying a fixative or varnish essential to preserve the colors and quality of your artwork over time?

With conflicting advice, a wide variety of products, and sometimes unclear techniques, it's not always easy to know what to do. This article will help you see things more clearly: we'll detail the differences between fixative and varnish, their respective roles, mistakes to avoid... and above all, help you decide if this step is really right for you.

🧴 What is a fixative ? And a varnish ?

Although they are often confused, fixative and varnish are not exactly the same thing, and each has a specific function.

Fixative is a product generally used to stabilize works made with pastels, charcoal, or pencils. In the case of paint-by-numbers, it is sometimes recommended to prevent acrylic paint from flaking over time. It comes in the form of a clear spray that is easy to apply.

Varnish, on the other hand, is more commonly used for acrylic paintings. It acts as a final protective layer that seals the paint. In addition to protecting the colors from moisture, scratches, and UV rays, it can also give a glossy, satin, or matte finish depending on the product chosen.

💡 Remember: varnish is the most recommended product for paint-by-number kits. Fixative can be used as a complement, but it is less essential.

🖼️ Why protect your paint-by-number kit ?

You've spent several hours, or even days, carefully painting your canvas... It would be a shame to see the colors fade or deteriorate over time.

Here's why applying a protective coating can really make a difference:

• Preserve colors: over time, exposure to light or humidity can cause colors to fade. Varnish acts as a protective filter.
• Prevent cracking: on some canvases, especially when they are not stretched, acrylic paint can crack. Varnish softens the surface and prevents this problem.
• Protect from dust and scratches: unvarnished paint remains vulnerable to dirt, rubbing, or even accidental splashes.
• Improve the final result: depending on the type of varnish, your work will take on a more vibrant or professional look, with a glossy, matte, or satin finish.

🎨 It's a simple but valuable finishing touch that transforms a DIY painting into a truly durable decorative object.

🧪 Fixative or varnish: which one should you choose depending on the desired result ?

The choice between fixative and varnish depends above all on your ultimate goal: do you want to stabilize the paint, improve the finish, or provide lasting protection for the work?

✅ Choose a fixative if:

• You want to lightly fix the surface without changing its appearance.
• Your painting is finished but you do not intend to display it permanently.
• You prefer to maintain a matte or natural look without shine.

💡 Note: fixative is rarely essential in paint-by-number, unless the paint is particularly thin or you are not applying varnish afterwards.

✅ Choose a varnish if:

• You want to protect your canvas for the long term (from UV rays, humidity, dust, etc.).
• You want a more aesthetic final finish (glossy, satin, or matte).
• You plan to frame your artwork or hang it on the wall.

🎨 For complete protection, varnish is the safest and most popular choice among paint-by-number enthusiasts.

⚠️ Mistakes to avoid at all costs

Even though applying a fixative or varnish seems simple, certain mistakes can damage your artwork or alter the final result. Here are the pitfalls to avoid:

❌ Applying too soon

Wait at least 24 to 48 hours after finishing your painting. A painting that is not completely dry may smudge, flake, or crack under the effect of the fixative or varnish.

❌ Neglecting to test beforehand

Before spraying your entire canvas, always test on a small area or scrap piece of canvas. This will allow you to check the finish (shine, texture) and ensure that the product does not alter the colors.

❌ Applying indoors without ventilation

Spray fixatives and varnishes often give off toxic fumes. Use them in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, and protect your work surface.

❌ Overloading the surface

Applying too much product at once can saturate the paint, cause drips, or warp the canvas. It is better to apply several thin, even coats from a distance of 30 cm.

❌ Using an unsuitable product

Avoid solvent-based varnishes that are not designed for acrylics: they can melt the paint or make it sticky. Always choose a specific acrylic varnish for water-based paints.

🛠️ How to apply varnish or fixative to your paint-by-numbers painting ?

Applying fixative or varnish to your paint-by-numbers painting is a simple step, but it requires a little preparation for optimal results. Here are the steps to follow depending on the type of product used.

🧴 Applying spray varnish or fixative:

Make sure the paint is completely dry (at least 48 hours after the last application).

1. Place the canvas on a flat, clean, protected surface (newspaper or cardboard).
2. Work outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
3. Hold the spray about 30 cm from the canvas.
4. Spray in slow, crossed and regular movements (horizontally then vertically), without applying too much pressure.
5. Allow to dry for at least 30 minutes between coats if you want to reinforce the protection.
6. Allow to dry completely (several hours) before handling or framing.

🖌️ Applying varnish with a brush:

1. Choose an acrylic varnish suitable for water-based paint.
2. Use a clean, soft, wide brush.
3. Spread the varnish in a thin, even layer, without going over the same area too often.
4. Avoid areas where the paint is thicker, as the varnish may accumulate there.
5. Leave to dry for several hours in a dust-free environment.

💡 Tip: a glossy varnish will add shine and depth to the colors, while a matte varnish will give a more understated and artistic finish.

💬 Is it really necessary to use varnish ? Our recommendation

If you're still unsure about whether to use varnish or fixative, here are a few things to help you decide.

🎯 It's not mandatory, but...

No, applying varnish or fixative is not essential for all paintings. Many paint-by-number paintings retain their appearance very well without protection, provided they are not handled or exposed to extreme conditions.

✅ But in these cases, we strongly recommend it:

• You plan to frame your artwork or hang it in a prominent place (living room, kitchen, bedroom).
• You want to give the painting as a gift.
• You spent a lot of time creating it and want to preserve it for the long term.
• You want to give it a more professional finish.

🌟 In summary: if you are proud of your artwork and want to keep it for a long time, a varnish (preferably acrylic) is your best ally. It's a small step for lasting protection, and often enhances the result.

🎁 A finish that enhances and protects your artwork

You have devoted time, patience, and a lot of attention to creating your paint-by-numbers artwork. Why not go the extra mile by giving it the protection it deserves? Whether you choose a light fixative to protect it from dust or a glossy varnish to intensify the colors, this final step can really make a difference.

This simple step only takes a few minutes, but it will extend the life of your painting while giving it a more finished, professional look. It's also a nice way to say, “I took the time to create this, and I value the fruit of my labor.”

At Steloria, we believe that every work of art deserves to be showcased—and protected. So if you're looking to transform your painting into a lasting decorative piece, consider adding this finishing touch. ✨