Egg oil tempera
What are the benefits of using egg oil tempera?
Egg oil tempera has several advantages compared with modern synthetic paints:
- Environmentally friendly: Egg oil tempera is free from chemical substances such as azo and phthalate dyes, petroleum products, plasticisers, and solvents.
- Durable: It has a long lifespan and ages beautifully over time.
- Beautiful finish: Egg oil tempera provides a unique, silky-matt finish that is difficult to achieve with other types of paint.
- Excellent adhesion: The paint penetrates the substrate and creates a strong bond that resists cracking and flaking.
- Breathable: Moisture can move in and out through the paint, making it an excellent choice for use with other natural materials such as wood, clay, and paperboard.
How do I prepare the surface before painting with egg oil tempera?
To achieve the best possible results when painting with egg oil tempera, prepare the surface by:
- Thoroughly cleaning the surface of dirt and dust.
- Lightly sanding the surface to create an even, clean surface.
- Removing all sanding dust and wiping the surface with a damp cloth.
How long is the drying time for egg oil tempera?
The drying time for egg oil tempera varies depending on temperature, light, and air circulation. Generally, the paint takes 12–24 hours to dry at room temperature. It is important to wait until the paint is completely dry before applying additional coats or painting details.
Does egg oil tempera smell?
It smells wonderful! A subtle scent of linseed oil (many customers comment on it).
What are the disadvantages of egg oil tempera?
Although egg oil tempera is appreciated for its durability and environmentally friendly properties, it is not suitable for outdoor use or for people with egg allergies. But don't worry—there is a smart solution: Replace the eggs with chickpea brine! This adjustment makes the paint accessible to vegans and people with egg allergies, without compromising on quality.
Linseed oil paint
What is linseed oil paint?
Linseed paint is made from linseed oil and natural pigments. It penetrates the wood and creates protection from the inside out. The wood remains vapor-permeable (it can breathe), allowing moisture to move naturally. On older houses, linseed paint is one of the most traditional and commonly used types of paint.
What are the benefits of linseed oil paint?
It provides deep protection by penetrating the wood rather than covering the surface, creates a breathable finish that allows moisture to move naturally, and ages beautifully with a soft, vibrant sheen. It is made from natural raw materials and is economical in the long run, as it is easy to maintain without needing to be completely stripped.
Where can I use linseed oil paint?
Linseed paint works excellently both outdoors and indoors. Indoors, it can be used on wood, plaster, drywall, and most common surfaces. Keep in mind that linseed paint takes longer to dry than water-based paints, which is worth considering when painting indoors in cold or poorly ventilated rooms. All linseed paint becomes slightly yellow indoors when exposed to insufficient sunlight. This is a natural, reversible phenomenon that disappears when the surface is exposed to daylight again.
Do you tint linseed oil paint in any color?
Yes. At Ovolin, we mix linseed oil paint according to the NCS system and the Swedish National Heritage Board’s colour chart. We also have our own colour series that we have developed, including Forest Green, Ovolin Ochre, Geranium Green and Bergslagen Blue. We mix the paint by hand, without tinting machines or chemical pastes. This helps the colour remain stable and even over time.
How do I paint with linseed oil paint?
The basic rule is simple: apply thinly and work it in. Work the paint into the substrate instead of simply laying it on the surface. Spread it thoroughly; a thin coat is always better than a thick one. Use a brush, never a roller or sprayer. Always stir the paint before you begin. Freshly applied linseed oil paint is almost mirror-glossy, but after 2 to 3 months the paint has stabilized and settled to a satin-matte finish. This is a natural reduction in gloss.