Wislersmum
05-21-2003, 07:44 PM
Glair is made from the egg white, instead of emulsion from the yolk and can be used as a 'varnish' for egg tempera paintings.
Whip up the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Add a teaspoon more or less of water. Perhaps cover with some plastic wrap to keep nasty things out. The next day pour off the liquid from underneath the foamy solids. It's very sticky and fairly clear, and makes a nice varnish. Mind you, it won't be nearly as hard as a resin based varnish. You can also use it in water gilding, and temper paints with it. They say as it gets older and smellier it actually improves. I, myself, toss it when it stinks badly. If you're looking for a glossy surface on your temperas, I find it to be a pretty agreeable finish. D.H.
Whip up the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. Add a teaspoon more or less of water. Perhaps cover with some plastic wrap to keep nasty things out. The next day pour off the liquid from underneath the foamy solids. It's very sticky and fairly clear, and makes a nice varnish. Mind you, it won't be nearly as hard as a resin based varnish. You can also use it in water gilding, and temper paints with it. They say as it gets older and smellier it actually improves. I, myself, toss it when it stinks badly. If you're looking for a glossy surface on your temperas, I find it to be a pretty agreeable finish. D.H.