| Imprimatura Dorata Application |
Applying Imprimatura Dorata has a lot to do with timing. Therefore, we hope to post a video file to show the steps instead of photos as in the other instructions. For now, following are written instructions. For more information please visit the Magister website.
Imprimatura Dorata consists of 2 or 3 applications of primer, followed by an application of sealer. Then the instrument is exposed to ultraviolet light (either strong sunlight or a light box) to reveal the full effect of the primer. To dilute the primer, you may mix up to 50% with a solution of 90% distilled water and 10% alcohol. You may pre-tan your instrument; however, the more tanned an instrument is, the less noticeable the change in the wood color.
Materials Needed:
- Primer- 25-30 ml for a violin, 100 ml for a cello
- Sealer- 15 ml for a violin, 50 ml for a cello
- Turpentine
- Multi-purpose sponge (cut a square as wide as the ribs)
- Brush or cloth to apply sealer
- Light box
- Instrument
- To avoid “burning” the top, first apply a coat of turpentine to the spruce. This helps even out the rate at which the primer soaks into the endgrain versus the quarter sawn surfaces.
- Using a sponge, apply primer to the top quickly and evenly. You can control the amount of primer being used by the pressure of the sponge. Once you are sure that all areas are covered, do NOT go back over an area twice.
- Apply primer to the ribs, maple, neck, and scroll in a similar manner. Again, be sure not to go over an area again once you have completely covered it. You should apply the primer generously, but there should be no drips or pooling.
- Allow the primer to dry for about 20 minutes, then put another coat over the entire instrument. You do not need to apply turpentine to the top this time.
- If you want a stronger effect, you may choose to apply a third coat to the maple. Again, allow the primer to dry about 20 minutes between coats.
- Before applying sealer, be sure all coats of primer have thoroughly dried. This may take a little longer, 30 to 45 minutes.
- Apply the sealer evenly to all surfaces using a brush or a square of fine fabric (i.e. handkerchief). Your goal is to seal the wood enough that future coats of ground will stay near the surface of the wood. However, the ground should be able to penetrate the pores, especially if you want a darker color.
- Allow the instrument to sit in a lightbox for 12 hours, or in strong sunlight for 3-5 days. If using a lightbox, you may want to place the instrument in sunlight for an additional 12 hours before applying the ground.
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