5 Most Common Myths About Oil Paints
In brief: We’re busting 5 of the most common myths about oil paints and painting in general: whether you can mix paints from different brands, whether oil painting is exclusively done on canvas, whether painting from a reference is always better than painting from a photograph, whether mediums are essential, and whether oil paints are only for professionals. It’s time to stop letting these myths worry us so we can fully immerse ourselves in creative work.
Let’s take a look at 5 of the most common myths about oil painting. Let’s put unnecessary worries aside and get straight to the point: painting should be a joy above all.
Can You Mix Paints from Different Brands?
Paints from different brands can be mixed very well, and this applies not only to oil paints, but also to acrylic paints, tempera paints, fabric paints, and ceramic paints. The important thing is not to mix paints with different bases. That means oil paints and acrylic paints must not be mixed, and fabric paints cannot be mixed with glass paints because they have different compositions. But if you mix oil paint from one brand with oil paint from another brand, it won’t cause a problem, and you can paint to your heart’s content. The only way to combine acrylic and oil paints is to paint the first layers with acrylic paints, then, once they are completely dry, paint over them with oil paints.
Can You Paint Only on Canvas with Oil Paints?
Because of the term “oil painting,” people sometimes think that oil paints are intended exclusively for canvas, or conversely, that canvas can only be painted with oil paints. This is, of course, not true. You can paint with oil paints on any surface, but it’s essential to prepare the surface by sealing it and applying a suitable primer so the painting will last. This could be cardboard, hardboard, a wooden surface, heavier paper, or even some less common materials that you prepare carefully, keeping the durability and future of your artwork in mind.
Are paintings made from life always better than those painted from photographs?
This is a common question that is not limited to oil painting. The truth is that painting from a live model has its advantages, but it does not necessarily determine the quality of a painting. A photograph takes away the chance to walk up to your model and check whether they have freckles or if you only imagined them, to look at them from every side and not just from the angle in the photograph. You can get an impression of what they look like when they talk or laugh, and use that to paint not only what is visible from a certain angle, but also their character. The same applies when your model is nature, a tree, or a meadow. When you have the chance to experience what you are painting with all your senses, you can convey the whole impression in your painting, including your own emotions. But painting from a model also has its drawbacks, such as time constraints and changing light, which can cause shadows to move constantly.
Are mediums essential for painting with oil paints?
No, they are not. It is perfectly fine not to use mediums. Many beginners are afraid of oil paints because they feel they need dozens of different mediums and thinners, which can be confusing. In fact, you can paint with paint straight from the tube, without thinning it. All you need to wash your brushes is a little turpentine (though if you are responsible and clean your brushes right after painting, soap and water alone may be enough). We recommend giving yourself the chance to learn about mediums and their benefits, but we also recommend not forcing yourself to use mediums, linseed oil, or turpentine just because you have heard that it is the right thing to do.
Are oil paints for professionals?
That is a myth. Oil paints are for anyone who has patience and enjoys their characteristic gloss and depth of shade. It does not matter whether you are a beginner or a professional. Still, you need to familiarize yourself with their properties and be ready to experiment with different mediums to find a combination that suits your artistic sensibilities. In most cases, building up a painting with oil paints takes much longer than painting with acrylic paints, and the result develops gradually. So be sure to arm yourself with patience before you start exploring this painting material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you mix oil paints from different brands?
Yes. Oil paints from different manufacturers can be freely mixed because they have the same base. The only rule is not to mix paints with different bases, such as oil paints with acrylic paints, or fabric paints with glass paints.
Can you only paint with oil paints on canvas?
No. You can paint with oil paints on cardboard, hardboard, wood, or thicker paper. The only important thing is to prepare the surface, isolate it, and apply a suitable primer so the painting will last.
Are mediums required when using oil paints?
No. You can paint with paint straight from the tube, and a little turpentine, or even soap and water, is enough to wash your brushes. Use mediums once you have learned about them and genuinely need them.
Read more from our blog
- Everything you need to know before using painting mediums for the first time
- Less common, but no less powerful, painting mediums
- Oil Paints: Properties and Basic Pigments
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