How the Varnish Converter Works
The Varnish Converter divides varnish mass by its density. The default 0.95 kg/L fits a clear solvent-borne varnish.
Pick the finish
Oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, spar varnish, shellac and lacquer differ in density.
Enter the density
Use the table or the can data sheet.
Enter the mass
Type the varnish weight in kilograms.
Read the liters
Plan coats from the liters and the coverage on the can.
Varnish Converter Formula
The varnish formula is V = m ÷ ρvarnish. Solvent-borne varnishes weigh less than water; water-borne finishes weigh slightly more.
- ρvarnish
- Varnish density, kg/L
Worked Examples
- Oil-based polyurethane: 0.9 kg ÷ 0.92 = 978 mL.
- Water-based polyurethane: 3.5 kg ÷ 1.03 = 3.398 L.
- Floor job: 3.4 L × 12 m²/L ÷ 20 m² = 2.0 coats.
Varnish Converter Conversion Table
1 liter of oil-based polyurethane varnish weighs about 0.92 kg. The table lists 7 clear wood finishes.
| Finish | Density (kg/L) | Liters per 1 kg | lb per US gal | 1 US qt can (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shellac (2 lb cut) | 0.880 | 1.136 | 7.34 | 0.833 |
| Danish oil | 0.880 | 1.136 | 7.34 | 0.833 |
| Spar / marine varnish | 0.900 | 1.111 | 7.51 | 0.852 |
| Oil-based polyurethane | 0.920 | 1.087 | 7.68 | 0.871 |
| Nitrocellulose lacquer | 0.930 | 1.075 | 7.76 | 0.880 |
| Alkyd varnish | 0.950 | 1.053 | 7.93 | 0.899 |
| Water-based polyurethane | 1.030 | 0.971 | 8.60 | 0.975 |
What is a Varnish Converter?
A Varnish Converter is a calculator that converts varnish and clear finish weights into volume.
Varnish is a clear coating of resin, drying oil and solvent. The solvent evaporates and the resin cures into a hard, transparent film over wood.
Solvent-borne varnishes carry mineral spirits at about 0.78 kg/L, which keeps the whole product below water density. Water-borne finishes replace the solvent with water.
What are the Uses of a Varnish Converter?
There are 4 main uses of a Varnish Converter.
Floor refinishing
Contractors convert bulk finish weights into coats per floor.
Boat maintenance
Owners convert spar varnish kg into brush coats.
Furniture shops
Finishers convert drums into spray booth volumes.
Hazardous waste
Shops convert waste varnish liters into kg for disposal.