An Age-Old Dilemma: Turpentine or Linseed Oil?

Oil paints can be thinned with turpentine, odorless thinner, or oils, and each one affects the paint differently. We’ll explain when to use turpentine, when to use linseed oil, and when to use a ready-made medium.

What Is Turpentine and What Is It Used For?

Turpentine is a colorless solvent used to thin oil paints and clean brushes and palettes. Traditional turpentine is distilled from pine resin, such as Talens Rectified Turpentine. The more turpentine you add to the paint, the leaner it becomes and the faster it dries; paint containing more than 30% turpentine is matte when dry. It has a strong odor, so work in a well-ventilated room.

What Is the Difference Between Turpentine and Odorless Thinner?

Both thin oil paints and clean tools. Odorless thinner, such as Kompozit Thinner, is dearomatized and suitable for people sensitive to odors. In between is Schmincke Citrus Turpentine, which has a less harmful odor.

What Is Linseed Oil Used for in Oil Painting?

Linseed oil softens and binds the paint. Use it on its own or with turpentine. Pure linseed oil significantly slows drying, and the paint may yellow over time, so walnut oil is a better choice for light shades. Once dry, linseed oil will not dissolve, even in turpentine. For example, you can find Umton Linseed Oil.

What Is a Medium in Oil Painting?

A medium is a ready-made blend of oils, thinners, and resins designed for a specific purpose. For example, it can increase gloss and transparency (Talens Medium), help with glazing (Talens Glazing), or speed up drying (Schmincke Fast-Drying Medium).

What Does the Fat-Over-Lean Rule Mean?

Paint the lower layers with paint containing more turpentine. It will be leaner and dry faster. Each successive layer should contain more oil and less thinner. Also make sure the lower layers are thinner than the top layers to prevent the paint from cracking.

What Should You Use to Clean Brushes After Oil Painting?

First rinse the brushes in thinner or turpentine, then wash them with soap and water. Schmincke Eco Brush Cleaner can help dissolve dried residue. You can find all thinners, oils, mediums, and varnishes in the oil painting supplies category. For tips on getting started, see our guide to oil painting for beginners.