Storing water-soluble oil paints properly ensures their longevity and usability. While the term "water-soluble" might suggest otherwise, these paints are still primarily oil-based, containing pigment, linseed oil, and an emulsifier that allows them to be thinned and cleaned with water.
Best Practices for Storing Water-Soluble Oil Paints
Here are the best ways to store your water-soluble oil paints:
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Airtight Containers: The most important thing is to prevent the paint from drying out. Squeeze out any excess air from the tube before recapping tightly. For paints on a palette, consider using an airtight palette box or covering the palette tightly with plastic wrap.
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Cool, Dark Place: Store your paints in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A consistent temperature helps maintain the paint's consistency and prevents separation or hardening.
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Freezing (With Caution): While some artists have reported success freezing water-mixable oils, this should be approached with caution. The primary concern is potential moisture introduction, which could affect the paint's emulsification properties over time. If freezing, ensure the tube is completely airtight to prevent any moisture from entering.
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Proper Sealing of Tubes: Always ensure the tube caps are tightly sealed. Clean any excess paint from the threads of the tube and cap before closing. If a cap is lost or damaged, replace it with a cap that fits securely.
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Orientation of Tubes: Store tubes standing upright, cap-side up. This helps prevent oil from separating and accumulating at the bottom of the tube.
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Avoid Extreme Temperature Fluctuations: Significant temperature changes can negatively impact the paint's consistency and emulsification. Avoid storing paints in areas prone to these fluctuations, such as near a radiator or in a garage subject to extreme temperature variations.
What About Paint on the Palette?
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Airtight Palette Box: Invest in an airtight palette box. Some boxes even include a damp sponge to maintain humidity and slow down drying.
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Plastic Wrap: If you don't have a palette box, tightly cover your palette with plastic wrap, ensuring minimal air exposure.
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Spritz with Water (Sparingly): Lightly misting the paint with water can help keep it moist, but do so sparingly to avoid over-dilution. This is not always recommended as it can alter the paint's consistency over time.
Additional Tips
- Regularly Check Your Paints: Periodically inspect your paints for signs of drying out, separation, or mold growth.
- Discard Dried Paint: If paint has dried out significantly, it is unlikely to be salvageable and should be discarded properly.
By following these guidelines, you can maximize the lifespan and usability of your water-soluble oil paints.
