Spectrafix Degas Fixative 946ml - Non-Toxic Natural Milk Casein

SpectraFix Degas Spray Fixative is the ultimate fixative for charcoal, pastels, pencils, watercolours and gouache as it contains no resin varnishes or other chemicals or chemical propellants to darken the value and alter the hue of your work. It is also perfect for use to secure underpainting before varnishing or applying oil paint.

Please note: it is not designed as a final varnish for acrylic or oil paintings

SpectraFix is formulated from a blend of art-grade natural milk casein, water and pure grain alcohol to produce a colourless, rapid drying, water-resistant and non-yellowing film. The formulation is based on an antique recipe used by French Impressionist painter, Edgar Degas.

The alcohol evaporates rapidly taking the water with it leaving only a thin layer of casein which dries quickly to a protective and archival acid-free matte film. Also protects fragile pastels without colour change.

SpectraFix is not packaged in a pressurized aerosol can as the necessary chemical propellant used may cause unforeseeable effects to colour values and hues, your health and the environment.

SpectraFix dispenses a fine mist to produce a vaporous mist that has only a minimal effect on a colour's value and does not change the hue - the colours will remain fresh and vibrant even after several layers of SpectraFix.

Features:

• 946ml (32oz) Refil Bottle - spray nozzle not supplied - See Spectrafix Refillable Empty Fixative Spray Bottle 296ml

• Spectra Fix is the perfect non-toxic environmentally friendly solution for every home and classroom.

• Conforms to ASTM D-4236 regulations: no known chronic health hazards.

• Can be used indoors

• Made from an antique recipe used by Andre Degas in the 1800s

• Ingredients: Casein, water, denatured grain alcohol

Handy hints:

• Use two coats for heavy marks and charcoal

• Spray lightly, on artwork laying flat, not vertically

• Spray an even layer of SpectraFix over your work and allow 1-2 minutes for the alcohol to evaporate before re-spraying or re-working.

• Occasional spraying during the working process enables deep layering of pastel, ensures a strong hold and helps maintain chromatic control.

• If desired, brush while still wet to create washes with pastel.

• SpectraFix dries to an invisible matte finish

What is the difference between a varnish and a fixative?

A spray fixative is used to "fix" the drawing material (usually graphite or pastel) so that it does not smear as easily.

A varnish is used to change the sheen of the artwork and protect it from absorbing pollutants from the environment. It often is available in a variety of finishes including gloss, satin and matte.