Fixatives are very thin, fast drying solutions of clear acrylic or vinyl resin in a solvent, such as alcohol or mineral spirits. The amount of resin is usually very low compared to the amount in varnishes to avoid disrupting the appearance of fragile dry media like charcoal and pastel.
Final Fixatives
Final fixatives are used to fix and protect dry media such as pastels, charcoal, pastel pencils and graphite from smudging and rubbing off. Final fixatives come in glossy and matte finishes.
Workable Fixative
Workable fixatives are used to fix dry media such as pastels, charcoal, pastel pencils and graphite when it is desired to use additional media. Workable fixatives have a matte finish.