No, you cannot directly mix traditional linseed oil with water-mixable oil paint. Linseed oil is an oil-based medium, while water-mixable oil paints are designed to be thinned and cleaned up with water. Mixing them will result in separation and likely ruin the paint's properties.
However, you can use water-mixable linseed oil (or safflower oil) to improve the flow and drying time of water-mixable oil paints. These specialized, water-miscible oils are formulated to work within the water-based system of the paints.
Understanding Water-Mixable Oil Paints
Water-mixable oil paints contain emulsifiers that allow them to blend with water. This makes them easier to clean up and more convenient for artists who prefer a less solvent-intensive approach. Traditional linseed oil lacks this emulsifier and will not integrate properly.
Using Water-Miscible Oils for Better Flow
- Improved Flow: Water-mixable linseed or safflower oils can be added to water-mixable oil paints to increase their flow and improve brushstrokes.
- Slower Drying: These oils can also help to slow down the drying time of the paint, providing more working time.
- Small Quantities: Only a small amount of the water-mixable oil is needed to achieve the desired effect.
The reference material states: "Water-mixable linseed or safflower oils can be added to paint to increase flow and slow drying, or they can be used as ingredients when making your own water-mixable mediums." This highlights the crucial distinction between regular linseed oil and its water-mixable counterpart. Using the correct type of oil is essential for achieving the desired results.
