As an optional step, I’d like to show you one of the methods I use to seal my paintings.
This works well for paintings that have light tones and hues, with lots of white and pastel colors. I often seal my watercolor paintings on canvas the same way as well.
Cold wax is normally used as a medium for oil paint to create texture, but it can be used as a protective varnish too. You’ll notice that when applied it looks quite cloudy and dense, but it will dry to clear, depending on how thick you apply your layer.
For watercolor I usually add a very thin layer as I don’t want my canvas to have texture, but in this case with mixed media it’s even preferable to add a slightly thicker layer to accentuate the texture already present in the painting.
You’ll want to be careful in the application of the wax so as not to move the pastel layers underneath, gently applying it with a palette knife.
part five: sealing with cold wax
Please note that the thicker the layer is, the more days it will take to dry.
You’ll find that this method of sealing a painting can be quite addictive and give that extra dreamy touch to your work.