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Originally Posted by Michele Rushworth
When I want to deliver a recently completed commission that has sunken-in dull areas, I "oil out" those parts of the painting with a 50% linseed/50% OMS mixture, rather than using any type of retouch varnish. That evens out the surface quite well and dries to a nice semi gloss finish.
Virgil, does this seem like a sound practice?
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Michele,
Maybe. It depends on how much you leave on the surface, and on the percentage of oil there is in the paint making up the painting. If everything is right, the oiling-out oil will soon be absorbed into the paint layer, and become part of it. The painting should still be varnished after it has cured for six months to one year. If there are any heavy passages or impasto, one year would be better. I assume you always arrange to get the painting back for varnishing at the appropriate time. I make sure my portrait clients understand the importance of a final varnish, and agree to let me have the painting back a year after I've delivered it.
When oiling out, it's very important to wipe as much of the oil off as will come off, with a soft cloth, immediately after the oil is applied. Enough will remain on the surface of the painting to accomplish the purpose.
I hope that helps.
Virgil