Hi,
I added this onto the tail end of another discussion but probably should have started a new question, so here goes:
I note that in this discussion it was said that.. using large amounts of an essential oil is detrimental. Is using Lavender spike oil: tube oil paint in 1:1 or even up to 2:1 (max.) OK?
I.E. what is the dilution limit you can use in an underpainting and still achieve adequate adhesion?
Recently reading an article from Jerry’s artarama re this oil indicates that the vapours are non-toxic and it evaporates about the same speed as OMS, can be mixed with mediums, and a safe alternative to OMS. (no special ventilation requirements). My understanding of the MSDS also gives no concerns unless you swallow it or get it in your eyes. The only drawback seems to be the high price as compared to OMS.
Many thanks in advance
Hi Brian,
many thanks for your response. I think the issue with using this spike oil, as I proposed, is going to be fraught with complications so I think I will look for an alternative.
Thanks again
The following is a good thread to read concerning spike lavender oil as a solvent for painting.
https://www.artcons.udel.edu/mitra/forums/question?QID=392
As to the amount of acceptable solvent, this seems to come up often but it is not possible to give a blanket answer as I have tried to point out many times. The number would be affected by how well is the original paint bound (some brands have far more oil than necessary, others are bound with approximately the CPVC meaning that they would be more affected by dilution) how absorbent is the ground?
In general, oil paint should not be diluted to watercolor-like washes. The idea that later applications of fatter paint will consolidate the lower layer is sort of misleading. To do this the upper layer must have a degree of additional oil which will be drawn into the lower layer. Paint layering is more complicated than this.
Finally, I cannot see how to create a hard fast rule on this that would be applicable across paint ranges. Perhaps someone else would like to take a stab at it. I do remember George O stating the following: Mix about one third turpentine to two-thirds linseed oil. Try not to exceed this ratio, but use this as a starting point to mix with your oil colors. This is probably very good advice but even this does not address the influence of different paint brands and their pigment/oil load.
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