The Art Board Artists' Mediums

Odourless mineral spirits is spirits that have been further refined to remove the more toxic aromatic compounds, and are recommended for applications such as oil painting, where humans have close contact with the solvent.

Odourless mineral spirits It is commonly used as a paint thinner for oil-based paint and cleaning brushes, and as an organic solvent in other applications.

Artists Liguigel is a great general purpose semigloss medium which speeds drying time of your oil paint, improved flow and reduces brush stroke retention. Liquigel is a transparent glazing medium that halves drying time of conventional oil and resists yellowing.

This is the most popular oil medium for fine art. When using linseed oil for oil painting, it slows down the drying time of your paint, which can be very useful when painting in layers. When using Refined Linseed Oil it’s good practice to paint your fast-drying layers first. Each layer on top should take longer to dry than the previous one, so you can apply more of this medium with each layer.

Dammar is a resin-based varnish that, when mixed with oil paint mediums, thins the paint, increases its transparency, and speeds drying time. Used alone as a top coat, it seals paintings and adds a glossy finish. Be sure, though, that your painting is thoroughly dry before applying it as a final varnish.

Apply a layer to shield works from dust, dirt, smoke, scuffing, and moisture. This varnish deepens pigment colors and lends a high-gloss finish to final compositions.
Note: Wait at least six months after painting has thoroughly dried before applying this as a final varnish.

Gum turpentine, also known as gum spirits of turpentine, is a natural resin-based solvent that has been used by artists for centuries. Here are some tips and advice for using genuine gum turpentine in your artistic endeavors:

1. Quality Matters:

   • Choose a high-quality, pure gum turpentine from reputable art suppliers. Ensure that it is labeled as "genuine" or "pure" gum turpentine.

2. Ventilation:

   • Use gum turpentine in a well-ventilated area or with proper ventilation equipment. The fumes can be strong, and prolonged exposure may cause irritation.

3. Health Precautions:

   • Avoid prolonged skin contact with gum turpentine, as it can be irritating to the skin. Use gloves if necessary, and wash your hands thoroughly after use.

4. Storage:

   • Store gum turpentine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep the container tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.

5. Mixing with Oils:

   • Gum turpentine is commonly used as a thinner for oil paints. It can be added in small amounts to adjust the consistency of your paint and enhance brushwork.

6. Cleaning Brushes:

   • Use gum turpentine for cleaning brushes used with oil-based paints. Wipe excess paint off the brushes before dipping them into the turpentine. Follow up with soap and water for a thorough cleaning.

7. Drying Time:

   • Gum turpentine can accelerate the drying time of oil paints. Be mindful of this property, especially if you are working on a technique that requires extended blending or wet-on-wet applications.

8. Experimentation:

   • Since artists may have different preferences, it's a good idea to experiment with the amount of gum turpentine used in your painting process to achieve the desired effects.

9. Alternative Solvents:

   • Consider exploring other solvents like odorless mineral spirits or citrus-based solvents if the strong smell of gum turpentine is a concern. These alternatives may have different drying times and characteristics.

10. Safety First:

    • Always follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that there are different grades and types of turpentine, so be sure to use the one recommended for artists.

Remember that while gum turpentine has been a traditional choice for artists, there are alternative solvents available. Each artist may have personal preferences based on their painting style and health considerations. Always prioritize your safety and choose materials that suit your artistic needs.