Gamblin Artists Colors
Frequently Asked Questions


Oil Painting Techniques
How do I make an oil painting that will withstand the test of time?
I have two old paintings that I took out of storage and both are very yellow. What should I do?

Solvents
What are odorless mineral spirits (OMS)?
How do I remove the metal seal on a can of Gamsol?
What is TLV?
Are all brands of OMS the same?
Which solvent should I use for brush & studio clean up?
Are there any painting techniques for which alkyd resins are not a good choice?
What is the best system of ventilation for a studio?

Mediums
How do I care for Galkyd so that it does not dry in the bottle?
Are the working properties of Galkyd like traditional painting mediums?
Why use Galkyd instead of a painting medium made with damar resin and turpentine?
How can I make Galkyds more matte?
How can I slow down the drying time of Galkyds?
Is it ok to thin my paint with solvent to begin painting?

Fabrics and Grounds
Does it matter if I use canvas rather than linen?
How do I properly roll a canvas for storage?
Can I use PVA Size as a ground?
Does PVA Size tighten fabric support like rabbit skin glue?
I see ground striking through the back of my fabric. Is this a problem?
Why should I apply Gamblin Ground with a knife? I prefer using a brush.
Can I thin Gamblin Ground?
My ground looks shiny. Should I sand the top layer of ground before I start painting?

Varnish
How can I matte Gamvar?
How long do I have to wait untill I varnish my painting, 6 months, 9 months, a year?
Do I have to varnish?
Can I use Galkyd as a varnish?
Can Gamvar Picture Varnish be used as a retouch varnish?
Can I use Galkyd as a retouch varnish?

Oil Colors
I travel frequently. Can I take my oil colors through airline security?
What is the difference between Artist and Student grade paints?

 
  Dedicated to oil painters.