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Frequently asked questions about egg oil tempera

What is egg oil tempera?

Egg oil tempera is a traditional, natural and durable paint consisting of pigments, linseed oil, water and eggs. This mixture gives a color that is both beautiful and durable. Egg oil tempera is mainly used for wooden surfaces, such as furniture, doors, moldings, linings and walls, but can also be used on other materials.

What are the benefits of using egg oil tempera?

Egg oil tempera has several advantages over modern synthetic paints:

  • Environmental considerations : Egg oil tempera is free from chemical substances such as azo and phthalo dyes, petroleum products, plasticizers or solvents.
  • Durable : It has a long lifespan and ages beautifully over time.
  • Beautiful surface : Egg oil tempera gives a unique, silky matte surface that is difficult to achieve with other types of paint.
  • Good adhesion : The paint penetrates the substrate and creates a strong bond that resists cracking and flaking.
  • Open to diffusion : Moisture has the ability to migrate in and out through the paint, which makes it a perfect match with other natural materials such as wood, clay and cardboard.

How do I prepare the surface before painting with egg oil tempera?

To achieve the best possible results when painting with egg oil tempera, you should prepare the surface by:

  • Clean the surface thoroughly from dirt and dust.
  • Sand the surface lightly to create a smooth and clean surface.
  • Remove all sanding dust and wipe 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 speaking, it takes 12-24 hours for the paint to dry at room temperature. It is important to wait until the paint is completely dry before applying additional layers or painting details.

Can I use egg oil tempera on wallpapered walls?

It is perfectly possible to use egg oil tempera on wallpapered walls. Make sure the wallpaper is firmly attached before you start painting.

How do I clean brushes after painting with egg oil tempera?

To clean brushes after painting with egg oil tempera, follow these steps:

  • Wipe off as much paint as possible from the brush using a cloth or paper.
  • Rinse the brush in a container of water until the water is relatively clear.
  • Wash the brush with a mild soap and water to remove any remaining paint residue.
  • Rinse the brush thoroughly to remove soap and paint.
  • Squeeze out excess water and shape the brush with your fingers.
  • Hang the brush upside down to dry, so that water does not collect in the holder and cause damage to the brush.

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