Linseed oil paint follows the substrate. This is both the strength and the truth of this type of paint: a well-prepared substrate gives a beautiful, durable result. A poorly prepared substrate shows.
It takes a little time to prepare properly. It is time well spent.
Scrape and sand
Remove all loose and flaking paint. Scrape first, then sand. If old paint is firmly attached, you do not need to remove it all, but the surface must be stable. Linseed oil paint cannot save a weak substrate.
Tools: see for example scrapers and sanding materials in the range.
Clean the surface
The surface must be clean, dry, and free from dust, dirt, and grease. A brush or damp cloth is usually enough. If there is mold or algae, treat it first with a suitable agent and let the surface dry thoroughly before continuing. Painting on a damp or dirty surface will cause adhesion problems.
Check existing paint
If you are painting over existing paint, check that it is firmly attached and compatible with linseed oil paint. A simple rule of thumb: linseed oil paint can be applied over most traditional paint types that are firmly attached, but not over plastic paints or other dense, impermeable layers. If you are unsure, contact us and we will help you assess.
More about substrates and common questions: Frequently asked questions about linseed oil paint.
Priming
Priming differs somewhat depending on whether you are painting indoors or outdoors, and there are several approaches.
Indoors: Dilute the first coat with about 10–20% solvent or a little linseed oil. This makes the paint thinner and helps it penetrate the substrate. It is also fine to use an interior linseed oil paint primer (primer).
Outdoors: Either apply a linseed oil paint primer as the first step, or dilute the first coat heavily with solvent, about 40%. Some manufacturers recommend diluting with linseed oil instead. Either way: apply the primer thinly.
The basic rule is the same indoors and outdoors: the first layer should penetrate, not cover.
How to proceed with the actual painting, number of coats, and drying times can be found in our guide Painting with linseed oil paint – step by step.
More guides: Advice & recipes.
