Making Matters: Seeing in a different light

Our first article on the uses of ultraviolet light in violin making (October 2021) focused on the differences in radiation strength of the three different types – UVA, UVB and UVC – and their effectiveness in tanning wood. In this second article we examine how the various methods can be used in varnish drying – even though it is much more difficult to give a definitive scientific statement on the matter. As well as the type of UV radiation, other factors will affect the drying process such as the ground, layer thickness, oil-to-resin ratio, or the presence of pigments and siccatives. Many violin makers have found their personal solutions, and we can only share our own long-term experiences with the various UV sources…