Oil washes, a beginner question...

Thanks PJ. I'm experimenting anyway, will definitely give turpentine/turpenoid a shot.

Greg

I find that turpentine dissolves the oils better and I use a brush to make my wash. You need to mix it now and then as the pigment particles settle.

Thank you for your insight, Chris. I have been wondering if the 'smelly' spirits might mix better. Sounds like you know your chemistry!

Yes, it is normal, but it has nothing to do with the pigments. The thinner dissolves the linseed/safflower oil in the paint. In my experience, the odorless spirits don't dissolve the oils as well as the smelly spirits do. I still use the odorless spirits though, as the leftover glob isn't a big deal to me (and smelly spirits give me a headache).

Chris

Thanks for the confirmation all is well Joe, Nathan. I will stop fussing now. :)

Must have just missed your post over in the 190 GB, Joe. On my way over now......

It sounds like you are using the high quality Windsor and newton oils, which have a fine pigment and should dissolve ok. I find that I do have to mix the oil glob of paint up really well with a larger brush, then keep re-stirring it from time to time to keep it mixed up. I wouldnt' even consider using a lesser grade oil paint, such as student oils.

Hey there Greg, Funny I should find your post here as I just posted a bit on using oil washes over on the 190 GB. Anyway, my experience with mixing artist's oils with Turpenoid (similar to mineral spirits) is that indeed, the glob does not fully dissolve. So, I would say, yes, that is normal.