To revive dry oil paint, add a few drops of oil medium and mix thoroughly.
Oil paints can dry out when exposed to air, but they are very forgiving and can usually be brought back to a usable consistency. Here's how to do it:
Rehydrating Dry Oil Paint
The key to making dry oil paint workable again is to add a small amount of oil medium. According to the YouTube video "Do THIS To Soften Dry Oil Paint Instantly!", the process is quite simple:
- Start with a Small Amount: Begin by adding only one or two drops of your preferred oil medium to the dried paint.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a palette knife or brush to thoroughly mix the oil medium into the paint.
- Evaluate the Consistency: Check if the paint has reached a workable consistency. If it's still too stiff, add one more drop of oil medium. Be careful not to add too much as that may make the paint runny.
- Repeat if Necessary: Continue adding oil medium, one drop at a time and mixing, until the paint is soft and usable.
The video stresses that oil paint is forgiving, and just a couple of drops of medium can make the paint "absolutely beautiful" again. This means you don't need to throw away dried-out paint if you follow these simple steps.
Common Oil Paint Mediums
Here are some commonly used oil painting mediums that work well for rehydrating dry oil paint:
- Linseed Oil: A popular choice, it increases the gloss and flow of the paint.
- Stand Oil: Thickens and increases the flow of the paint while creating a smooth finish.
- Walnut Oil: It is a good alternative to linseed oil, particularly for those with allergies.
- Poppy Oil: It is slow-drying and less likely to yellow over time.
- Alkyd Medium: It is a faster-drying option that also enhances the flow and gloss of the paint.
Tips for Success
When attempting to rehydrate dry oil paint, consider the following tips:
- Work in Small Increments: Adding too much medium at once can make the paint overly fluid and difficult to work with. Add oil one drop at a time.
- Mix Properly: Ensure the medium is fully incorporated into the paint for an even consistency.
- Use a Clean Palette Knife or Brush: Avoid introducing other contaminants into your paint.
- Assess Before Adding More: After each drop of medium, evaluate the paint's consistency before adding more.
By following these steps, you can effectively revive dry oil paint and continue your artistic endeavors.
