The purpose of this web site is to offer the full range of products available from Violin Varnish Ltd. This line of finishes is made by Joe Robson, a master varnish maker. Violin Varnish Ltd. seeks to offer the violinmaker, restorer, and repairer a full line of the necessary components for the traditional oil varnishing of the violin family of instruments.
As a professional cabinetmaker, I began researching and reproducing historically correct wood finishes over 25 years ago. Now Violin Varnish Ltd. supplies varnish, colors, and grounds to violin makers worldwide. I have presented my work to the American Federation of Violin and Bow Makers, Vernix 2000, the Violin Society of America, the VSA Oberlin Makers Workshop, and the violin making schools in Chicago and Boston. Occasionally articles are available in The Strad magazine.
Possessing the right materials for varnishing is the beginning of the process. A maker needs an understanding of the interaction of these materials and the skill to apply them. For me this has led to a career as a professional varnisher. I varnish violins and violas, but I prefer the cello. In collaboration with Marilyn Wallin and Roman Barnas, I direct varnishing workshops:Practical & Aesthetic Violin Varnishing”
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