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Frequently asked questions about egg yolk tempera

What is egg yolk tempera?

Egg yolk tempera is a traditional, natural, and sustainable paint made from pigments, linseed oil, water, and egg. This mixture creates a paint that is both beautiful and durable. Egg yolk tempera is primarily used for wooden surfaces, such as furniture, doors, moldings, casings, and walls, but can also be used on other materials.

What are the advantages of using egg yolk tempera?

Egg yolk tempera has several advantages compared to modern synthetic paints:

  • Environmental thinking: Egg oil tempera is free from chemical substances such as azo and phthalate dyes, petroleum products, plasticizers, or solvents.
  • Durable: It has a long lifespan and ages beautifully over time.
  • Beautiful surface: Egg oil tempera provides a unique, satin-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 peeling.
  • Diffusion open: Moisture has the opportunity to move in and out through the paint, making it excellent to use with other natural materials such as wood, clay, and cardboard.

How do I prepare the surface before painting with egg yolk 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.
  • Lightly sand the surface 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, 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 yolk tempera on wallpapered walls?

It is perfectly fine to use egg oil tempera on upholstered walls. Ensure that the wallpaper is securely 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 doesn't collect in the ferrule and cause damage to the brush.

 

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