Art can be found all around us. From the trees, to the sparkling rivers and to the craggy mountains, these are all works of art done by Mother Nature. However, you can also capture the beauty of nature by painting it. Of all the many forms of art, the paintings are considered the most popular form of self expression. There are different forms of art used in painting and this are: the abstract, landscape, portraits, and oil painting. Of all these, oil art creations are dominant because of their unique beauty and almost realistic adaptations of their subjects. Painting using oil acrylics, however, is no piece of cake. A painter must have an expertise over art and have sufficient knowledge on the right techniques and materials to be used.

In oil painting, the paints are mostly added with solvents so it can dry evenly. Solvents, also called diluents, are mixed to dissolve certain resins and make the paint thinner. It is also used to clean up oil paints stains on brushes. Using solvents require proper attention because when it evaporates it creates gas-like substance and could be toxic when inhaled in large amount. Use it on a well-ventilated room and keep it away from heat or fire because it is flammable.

There are different types of solvent but the most common is the turpentine. This is a solvent that is made from a tree resin base. It can evaporate fast once exposed to the air and its vapor could be harmful to man. Turpentine should be applied carefully because it can pass through our skin and cause irritations. In buying turpentine, buy the painter’s quality solvent and do not settle for cheap turpentine sold in hardware stores because these may contain impurities that can affect the quality of your paint.

Another commonly used solvent in oil paintings are the mineral spirits. This solvent which is also known as the white spirits is petroleum-based and has an average evaporation rate. Just like turpentine, it also releases harmful vapors so taking precautions is necessary when using this. Compared to odorless spirits, mineral spirits are considered one of the strongest solvent used on painting. Odorless mineral spirits, moreover, is another solvent which is also petroleum based and has an average evaporation rate just like the mineral spirits. It is less hazardous than the white spirits but people with sensitive skin should not go near it. This solvent is more expensive than other solvents because its normal aromatic harmful components are already removed.

Thinners are essential in making oil paintings. When it comes to thinners, however, one must remember that even the most pleasant smelling citrus-based ones also give off harmful vapors. In buying and using thinners, checking the components of the solution should be done to ensure the safety of the user. Alkali-based mediums, moreover, are solutions that aid oil acrylics to dry quicker. Another element is the resins. It is used to increase the gloss of the paint, make the drying of the medium faster, and reduce medium color.

In using solvents, thinners, and resins, it is important to test it if the solutions are compatible with the oil acrylic. To put the solvent into a test, drop a little of it on a piece of paper and wait until it evaporates. If the solvent does not leave any stain or smell, then it is a good one and can be used as mixture in oil painting.

Author Bio: David Shepherd Artwork Alexander Millar Artwork

Category: Arts and Crafts
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