You can mix oil-based paint with various solvents, oils, and mediums to achieve specific effects and consistencies.
Solvents
- Turpentine: A classic solvent used to thin oil paint, clean brushes, and create washes. It evaporates relatively quickly.
- Mineral Spirits (Odorless or Regular): A less harsh and less expensive alternative to turpentine. Odorless mineral spirits have fewer fumes.
Oils
- Linseed Oil: A common addition to oil paint that increases gloss, transparency, and flow. It slows drying time and can reduce brushstrokes. Different types exist (e.g., refined, cold-pressed, stand oil) offering various properties.
- Stand Oil: A thicker, slower-drying linseed oil that creates a smooth, enamel-like finish and reduces brushstrokes.
- Poppy Oil: A pale oil that slows drying even more than linseed oil and reduces yellowing, making it ideal for light colors.
- Walnut Oil: Another alternative to linseed oil, similar to poppy oil in its slow drying and reduced yellowing.
Mediums
Mediums are blends of solvents, oils, and sometimes resins that alter the properties of oil paint.
- Alkyd Mediums: Speed up drying time, increase gloss, and improve adhesion.
- Painting Mediums (Various): Prepared mediums from art supply companies offer a range of effects, such as increasing gloss, matte finishes, impasto capabilities (thick paint application), or improved flow. These often contain a mixture of oils, solvents, and resins.
Important Considerations
- Fat Over Lean: This principle dictates that each subsequent layer of paint should contain more oil than the previous layer. This ensures proper drying and prevents cracking.
- Compatibility: Ensure that any medium or solvent you use is compatible with oil paint.
- Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents.
- Safety: Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety precautions when using oil paints, solvents, and mediums.
By understanding these different options, you can tailor your oil painting process to achieve your desired artistic results.
