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JOHA® Volatile Oil Varnish – For High-Quality String Instruments

JOHA® Volatile Oil Varnish is a premium alcohol-based oil varnish, specially developed for the finishing and restoration of high-quality string instruments. Made from pure, very high-quality natural resins and enriched with selected volatile oils, it offers excellent elasticity after drying, a refined natural gloss, and outstanding acoustic performance.

Compared to spirit varnishes, it provides a slightly longer open time, allowing for smoother and more controlled application. Drying time varies depending on ambient conditions and layer thickness and typically takes around 1 to 7 days.

Ideal for use in a traditional multi-layer varnish system. Perfect for instrument makers and restorers who value uncompromising quality in both sound and appearance.

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Volatile oil varnish, primer

Volatile oil varnish, primer

Size: 100 ml

JOHA® Volatile Oil Varnish is a premium alcohol-based volatile oil varnish specially developed for finishing high-quality string instruments. Based on a traditional recipe, it is made from pure, very high-quality natural resins. The addition of selected volatile oils gives the varnish excellent elasticity after drying, enhances the instrument’s tonal quality, and creates a deep, radiant appearance. Compared to spirit varnishes, this varnish is somewhat easier to apply but requires significantly more drying time. Its tonal and visual properties make it particularly suitable for demanding restoration and new construction in fine instrument making. Properties: Made from pure, very high-quality natural resins and volatile oils Slightly longer open time than Spirit Varnish Ia – therefore easy to work with Elastic and durable after drying Excellent tonal properties – ideal for high-end instruments Application Note: JOHA® Volatile Oil Varnish is intended for experienced varnishers and instrument makers who value a visually refined and acoustically enhancing finish. Application is less demanding than with spirit varnishes, but due attention is required due to the slightly longer drying time. Recommended Use: Ideal for varnishing and restoring high-quality string instruments, especially within a traditional multi-layered varnish system. Note on Varnish Structure: For best results, a classic three-layer system is recommended: Ground varnish – Color varnish – Coating. Ground varnish: Applied directly to the wood for excellent adhesion. Hardest layer in the system. Color varnish: Applied over the ground varnish, can be clear or tinted. Slightly softer. Coating: Final layer, softest in the system, provides depth and surface gloss. Drying Times: Drying time depends on ambient temperature, humidity, and air circulation. Under optimal conditions (approx. 18 °C / 64 °F and 55% relative humidity), one coat dries in approximately 1 to 7 days. Thicker applications may require extended drying times. Use the thumb test to check dryness: if no fingerprint remains when gently pressing the surface, the layer is dry.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish colorless

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish colorless

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish yellow

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish yellow

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish golden yellow

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish golden yellow

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish red

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish red

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish brown

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish brown

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish amber

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish amber

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish golden brown

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish golden brown

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, color varnish red brown

Volatile oil varnish, color varnish red brown

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Volatile oil varnish, coating

Volatile oil varnish, coating

Size: 100 ml

Volatile oil varnish This varnish, made from pure natural resins, contains amongst its other ingredients various essential oils. This allows for a good elasticity after drying. The pure sound of the instrument is supported with this varnish, as is a radiant appearance. It is somewhat easier to use than spirit varnish, but requires a little more time to dry. This varnish is based on alcoholand volatile oils.

Regular price: €20.40
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Dilution for volatile oil varnish

Dilution for volatile oil varnish

Size: 100 ml

Dilution for Volatile Oil Varnish – Precisely Balanced for Best Results This dilution is specially formulated for use with our volatile oil varnish. It consists of particularly pure, carefully selected solvents and supports smooth application and a clean, transparent finish. Its precisely balanced composition preserves the varnish’s full quality – ensuring proper workability, drying, and adhesion. We strongly recommend using this specific dilution. Also perfectly suitable for cleaning brushes and tools after working with volatile oil varnish. Suitable for: – Volatile Oil Varnish

Regular price: €5.10