This medium suits the middle layers of a painting. It adds more oil than Medium #1 to improve flow, while still drying slower than the layers underneath it.
Use Painting Medium #1 for the earliest layers, then switch to Painting Medium #3 for the final one.
Properties
Drying Speed
SlowFast
Stroke Retention
Auto-levelPreserve
Finish
MatteGloss
Flow
ImpastoLiquid
Ingredients
Solvent62.2%
Linseed Stand Oil11.7%
Linseed Oil14.4%
Resin (Damar or Mastic)8.8%
Beeswax2.9%
As with Medium #1, the solvent portion should be gum turpentine. Odorless mineral spirits work as a lower-odor substitute, but turpentine remains the stronger solvent and leaves no mineral residue.
How to prepare
- Weigh out all the ingredients ahead of time.
- If your mix calls for resin, dissolve it in the turpentine first. You can also substitute a ready-made damar or mastic varnish, which is typically about 30% resin and 70% solvent, and adjust your ratios accordingly.
- Stir the beeswax into the solvent and let it dissolve.
- Add the oils and mix well.
Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark place. If your mix contains wax, it can settle over time, so shake well before use.