A little more about picture varnish

Seascape by Ritschel

Here is a little more on the subject of varnishing paintings. A lively discussion ensued in the comments and several apparently knowledgeable writers have suggested the use of Gamvar. I have not used it myself but will certainly check it out. I have heard, and they reiterate that it can be used on a painting only a few weeks old. That may be the solution that you will want to use.
If you go to the comments from the last post you can read the opinion of Edward who seems to be expert on this. Here is a link to Gamblins site for a little more information on Gamvar.

I am certain that damar works though and has been used for many years.
I am likely to send a painting out before it has a chance to sit even for those several weeks in my studio so I will probably continue to use retouch varnish and recommend a later coat of damar. I have written a statement to be included in an envelope to be stapled to the stretchers of a painting. Here is a PDF version of that which you can print out. I would suggest you edit it and add your name somewhere and tailor it to your own needs.
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I also received a copy of a scam letter aimed at painters from one of the readers. I spoke about these a while ago, but this one is such a classic. Here it is:

Dear (your name here);

Thanks for the message, I am very happy to know that the painting is still available for sale. i must tell you that my wife was stuffing through the net and she saw your good artwork she is very much interested in the immediate purchase because she need it for our new apartment ..

I will like to to buy it before someone else Grap it and i will pay you securely with a Bank Cashier's Check which will be payable to your name and i will wait till it clears your bank before the pick up.
This is because i will be traveling out of the country any moment from now for a business proposal. So get back to me with the information needed to send you the payment I:E

So that i can proceed in the payment arrangement and relay it to you asap. Kindly remove the listing from sales and consider it sold get back to me asap with needed information.
Thanks Once Again And I Await Your Quick Response

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This scam letter has all of the classic details. It is written in stilted language, It is from overseas, it describes a client who is moving and offers a cashiers check. If you get an offer like this, don't do it! I know we all want to sell art and its nice to think you have a customer on the line, but that's not what this is. I pity his poor stuffing wife.