Thickened linseed oil

[Michael Georges]

Hello Chris:

Witnout doubt a large amount of stand oil will create a pretty high level of gloss, and the medium I spoke about does add a jewel like quality to the paint rather typical of stand oil and of canada balsam. I have not had any problems varnishing over the surface of paintings using this medium however. I always try to use no more than 20% medium to paint, and even when I do get a little more medium in the mix it has not been a problem for me.

I have found that one of the most important things about varnishing is temperature - both the temperature of the surface and the temperature of the varnish. Warmth of both really helps coverage, and reduces bubbles I find.

[Michael Georges]

Jean:

That is one benefit of the mixture with Canada Balsam and Spike - it smells like a pine forest!

When you use it depends on how many layers you usually build, and frankly how thick you lay in the paint. I know one artist that mixes a "lean" version for lower layers that has 4 parts spike rather than 3.

If you build a lot of layers thinly, you should be ok to use it from the mid-layers on, being mindful of the % of medium to paint.

Without a doubt, this is not a "fast" medium. It is great for plein aire, oil sketches, alla prima work, or for passages where you will not go there again for a couple of days. If you need to paint again the very next day, you may want to consider a medium that has a drier in it like Maroger, or an alkyd, etc.

[Jean Kelly]

Thanks Michael,

I've posted my portrait under "works in progress". If I have any more questions I'll post them there as it progresses. My next supply purchase will include the balsam and spike, cause this is smelly stuff.

Jean

[Chris Saper]

Michael,

Thanks for the info. I think part of the appeal for Charles was that he could frame a wet painting, and it would be just as glossy when it dried.