How do you make an oil painting look shiny?

Question

I mean how do you get that effect?

Answer 1

There is a special type of transparent oil, looks like water but is many times thicker...

Can't recall what it was called though.

Sorry

Answer 2

A material named Damar Varnish is used to protect the surface of a dried oil painting. It is a natural resin dissolved in turpentine. It can be purchased in flakes and be made buy the artist, already prepared in a liquid or in an aerosol spray.

Damar varnish gives the surface a glossy appearance. The painting must be cleaned with a cleaner designed for the purpose periodically to keep the finish shiny

Answer 3

You need to apply a varnish to get a uniform finish, BUT, never apply it too soon. Oil paint never completely cures and if you apply it too soon, the paint will not cure evenly and the results will be cracking and wrinkling. What I use is a Damar retouch varnish that is made to use on fresh paint. In fact, one of the uses is to spray it on wet oil paint during the painting process to even out the shine so you can judge your colors more accurately. You can also apply it to somewhat dry oil paint if you plan to paint into it again to improve adhesion. Retouch varnish comes in Flat, Satin, and Glossy finishes to suit everyone's needs, and can be purchased at any good art supply store. I like d**k Blick online (www.dickblick.com) but most good art supply stores should have it. Hope this helps.  

Answer 4

Don't change the painting simply change the a) location and or b) the lighting.

Answer 5

It's called varnishing an oil painting and you need varnish oil.  If you just Google for 'oil painting varnish' you will find lots of instructions and what type of oils to use.