Varnishes to create a velvet look

These are mainly two-component solvent-based polyurethane varnishes, which are classified as textured varnishes. After drying, these peach-skin effect varnishes, also called velvet effect or "soft touch", create a super matte finish, very soft to the touch.

We refer to the peach skin feel because the varnish gives the impression of having a velvety surface. Like all super matte finishes, they are transparent, slightly hazy coatings that are resistant to water, chemicals, alcohols, sunlight.

These are not among the most resistant finishes, especially when compared to the classic two-component gloss products used in industry or bodywork. These are products that are much more sensitive to shocks, scratches and mark easily. Their textures seem much softer than glossy lacquers.

The use of peach skin varnishes (velvet effect)

Very fashionable, these finishes are found in the world of equipment as diverse as mobiles, glasses, toasters, remote controls, interior car equipment, for example. These coatings go well with all colors, especially bright colors and pearly or metallic effects. The effect produced is surprising, as it absorbs the light and invites you to touch the object. This 'soft touch' varnish effect is achieved with a series of additives that work to reduce shine and create that velvety soft surface.

It is now possible to find peach skin varnishes in a water-based acrylic version, for decorative applications and interior uses. The instructions for using peach skin varnishes are quite easy: the varnish is mixed with a hardener or catalyst (about 4 or 5 parts varnish for 1 part hardener). The application is done with a spray gun on the sanded surface, in two classic coats. Thanks to the chemical reaction, hardening occurs and the varnish hardens completely in 24 to 48 hours, or in just 1 to 2 hours with baking.

An aesthetic varnish that is fragile to abrasion

The effect of this varnish is surprising and extraordinary. Unfortunately, it has a weak point : its fragility to scratching and abrasion. Indeed, at the slightest shock, it peels off and tears, because it is quite thin and not very hard.

Apart from its fragility to abrasion, its weak point is that it grips and is flexible, unlike a glossy varnish which makes exterior elements slip. In addition, its matte surface absorbs all types of dirt and grit more easily.

The new ultra-resistant and self-repairing Soft touch

It was at Stardust that an exclusive innovation was born, with the release at the start of the year of the first "anti-scratch" velvet varnish ! We tested this new version, the new Soft touch varnish ST832X : the application and the mixing are totally different: the rate of hardener required is much higher and the drying time is considerably longer, but the result is there : You can scratch the surface, yes, but when you rub with your finger, the scratches disappear like magic.

Shellac varnish