Painting Mediums

Gamblin has dedicated vast amounts of time, research and development and has given generously in an effort to teach us about their products and guide the painters who use them. Here is what they have to say about Painting Mediums.

"Understanding the physical properties of their mediums can help painters better control the working properties of their oil paints. Painters who only use a medium to increase the flow of oil colors can be satisfied with a favorite teacher's medium or one from a book. However, painters who want to explore new ways to make marks or want to explore historical techniques, need to make a custom medium. They can combine contemporary materials to create the properties of traditional mediums and reduce their exposure to toxic materials. Or they can create a completely new combination to make a unique and personal medium.

By understanding the physical properties of mediums, painters can, for example, use Galkyd to replicate a high viscosity traditional painting medium, containing stand oil, dammar varnish and turpentine. Both mediums will be sticky with the same gloss level and good adhesion. Because Galkyd is made with Gamsol pure odorless mineral spirits, painters can eliminate their exposure to toxic turpentine and still use a painting medium with traditional working properties.

Painters for centuries have believed that the Old Masters had secret formulae that gave their paintings special optical qualities and archival qualities (permanence). By analyzing old paint films, conservation scientists are helping contemporary painters understand the Old Masters did not have many secrets. According to scientists of the Rembrandt Research Project at the Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt did not use mediums that contain resin varnish. He used the oldest painting medium: a simple mixture of linseed oil and solvent.

Adding natural resin varnish to painting mediums was first used as a studio practice in the 18th century. Before then, natural resin varnishes were commonly used to unify the surface of paintings. Some oil colors dry into matte surfaces and some into more shiny. Sir Joshua Reynolds was among the very first to use resin varnish in his mediums because his patrons wanted their portraits to look like those of the Old Masters. To accommodate them, Reynolds added resin varnish into his paints to give them a "gallery tone," a brownish yellow color of aging natural resin varnishes. He, in effect, artificially aged his own paintings!

"Natural resins, such as gum mastic, and since the 19th century also dammar resin, were and are uniformly appreciated for their optical and handling properties. Unfortunately, these tree exudates, chemically belonging to the class of triterpenoids, are also among the least stable of artists' materials. Particularly, when applied as a thin layer onto the surface of a painting, rapid degradation occurs due to oxidation and other reactions. Eventually, the varnish will obscure the paint layers because of loss of transparency, advanced yellowing and cracking," according to conservation scientist E. Rene de la Rie, in his oration Conservation Science Unvarnished.

Adding natural resins, litharge ("black oil," lead boiled into linseed oil) among other toxic materials would not have continued into the 21th century if artists did not enjoy the special "feel" of these mediums, the most famous of which is now called Maroger medium. Originally, its name was Megilp or Megilph. During the 18th century, artists realized that by using oil boiled with lead, a common practice used to make linseed oil dry more quickly, and then adding mastic varnish, they created an elegant, silky soft gel. Turner used such a soft gel medium in his atmospheric glaze layers. By the end of the 19th century, artists realized that adding Megilp accelerated the aging of paintings, making them dark and brittle.

A conservation scientist at the Tate Gallery, which houses many of Turner's great later paintings in London, gave Robert Gamblin a sample of genuine Megilp. Immediately Robert realized Megilp is unique and a valuable painting medium despite its obvious drawbacks. Megilp thins oil paints but still gives them body. During the next two years, he formulated Neo Megilp without using toxic lead, turpentine, or natural resin. With a base of alkyd resin, Neo Megilp gives painters a new tool—a soft, silky gel that may enhance the life of their paintings."

12.25.2009

Glue

We all know what glue is used for. To fix things, to mend, to attach, to bond. Oddly enough, these are words we use to discuss our relationships. Each relationship is different, having different requirements, different needs. There are times when we wish to permanently join two things together. I think we all want the same thing...perfect harmony.... we want the relationship to last. We have compiled a bunch of our favorite glues and adhesives in an effort to help you figure out what you really need to make it stick. Marriage material, go for it.

12.24.2009

3M Photo Mount



















3M Photo Mount

Professional-grade spray adhesive for mounting photographs quickly and permanently. No danger of damaging or staining prints. Heat and moisture resistant. Also good for mounting maps, posters or signs.

Krylon Spray Adhesive




















Krylon Spray Adhesive

A permanent, high-strength adhesive with extended open tack time that dries clear with no bleed through. This acid-free, archival-safe adhesive is non-yellowing and non-wrinkling and will dry to the touch in 30 minutes. For use with wood, metal, wicker, plastic, glass, fabric and paper.

Blair Spray Adhesive




















Blair Maximum Strength Adhesive

This new formula of adhesive spray provides maximum strength hold and dries clear while resisting water, humidity and heat. Each can provides approximately 90 square feet of coverage for everything from metal foil to foam. It will not bleed through, wrinkle or curl paper.

Tombow Removable Adhesive











Tomboy Removable Adhesive

Ideal for use with memory album and scrapbooks, this refillable ergonomic dispenser applies a 1/3" film of adhesive evenly and smoothly. Each dispenser comes with 472 inches of adhesive tape. The adhesive is available in both permanent and temporary bond adhesive tape for a strong instant bond, or temporary for repositioning and removing.

Tombow Permanent Adhesive











Tombow Permanent Adhesive

Ideal for use with memory album and scrapbooks, this refillable ergonomic dispenser applies a 1/3" film of adhesive evenly and smoothly. Each dispenser comes with 472 inches of adhesive tape. The adhesive is available in both permanent and temporary bond adhesive tape for a strong instant bond, or temporary for repositioning and removing.

Glue Lines




















Glue Lines

These convenient 1/8" strips of clear adhesive on a peel-off liner are ideal for use in crafts, card making, scrapbooking, and photo albums. No cutting is necessary, just tear off the amount you need to work with. The super stretchy glue adhesive in Glue Lines bonds instantly and has super strength, plus it is acid-free, non-toxic and photo safe. Continuous Glue Lines offer a continuous 25 foot line of glue. Strips of any length can be torn off the roll. The 1" Glue Lines offer 200 pre-measured 1" lines of glue per roll. To purchase Glue Lines click here.


Glue Dots




















Glue Dots

Craft Glue Dots are a multi-purpose dry adhesive to be used for all kinds of craft projects and hobbies. Glue dots are double-sided adhesive dots that bond instantly to paper, plastic, foam, wood, fabric and more. They're completely mess free and there's no waiting for the glue to dry. Easy to use, they're suitable for adults and children. Glue Dots are safe, non-toxic, acid-free, lignin-free, and photo-safe. Contains 150 dots per roll. To purchase Craft Glue Dots please click here.


O'Glue













O'Glue

Use this liquid glue on paper, cloth, photos, cardboard, and cellophane. Ideal for art and crafts projects and general use. O' Glue is acid free for photos and memory projects. The sponge tip applicator allow control over the area to be glued without a mess. The glue goes on clear and dries clear and won't wrinkle most types of paper. Non-toxic, AP Certified, non-flammable and water soluble. To purchase Itoya O'Glue click here.

Methyl Cellulose




















Pure Methyl Cellulose

This pH neutral, water reversible adhesive dries clear and is useful for repair, gluing end sheets and general archival adhesive applications.

Gem Tac




















Beacon Gem Tac

Add a bit of Bling to everything. Create wonderful wearables, works of art, gifts, home decor and more with this quality craft glue. It is permanent, water based, non-toxic, washable and great for bonding rhinestones, gems, mirrors, pearls and more to a wide variety of materials. Perfect for slick to porous surface applications, it works well with lace, fabrics, trims, decorations, ceramics, patent leathers, wood, vinyl, leather and more.

Rubber Cement



















Rubber Cement

Rubber Cement made from a special quality of white rubber, this cement is treated and blended to a dependable paper contact adhesive for paste-ups and other graphic arts uses. Holds fast, but can be removed cleanly with thinner. Also excellent as a frisket when thinned.

Gorilla Pen



















Gorilla Precision Glue Pen

Put Gorilla strength where you want it every time with the Precision Glue Pen. Its needle-nose tip with flow-through control design, makes it easy to apply the right amount of adhesive in hard to reach places and tight spots. It features a Gorillla tough, fast curing formula that offers a strong bond on material such as foam, glass, wood, stone, metal, ceramic and more. The Gorilla Precision Pen applicator is designed for bonding accuracy. The great versatility of the pen makes it ideal for both the indoor and outdoor project, quick fixes, crafts and for use on the go. To purchase the Gorilla Glue Precision Pen click here.

Gorilla Glue






















Gorilla Glue

Gorilla Glue is a 100% waterproof, single component adhesive that bonds wood, stone, metal, ceramic, foam board, bricks and more. Incredibly strong and versatile, it can be used on all sorts of jobs, both indoor and outdoor. Goes on dark, dries light tan and can be painted or stained for a professional look. To purchase Gorilla Glue click here.

Neutral pH Adhesive




















Neutral pH Adhesive

This acid free adhesive has excellent lay flat properties and dries clear. The polyvinyl acetate formula sets fast, and can be remoistened with water. Formulated specifically for preservation materials. Will not become brittle with age. Please check out other products by Lineco by searching the Mixed Media Art Supply website.

UHU Glue Stic



















UHU Glue Stic

These easy to use rub on glue sticks are non-toxic, non staining and washable. The adhesive quickly sets on paper, cardboard, photos, etc. Great for home, school, and office use. The purple formula rubs on purple for easy to see accurate application then dries clear.

Krazy Glue Pen




















Krazy Glue Pen

This handy 7 oz push pen applicator distributes all purpose adhesive with pin point accuracy. Use it for delicate repairs on most surfaces including wood, rubber, glass, metal,plastic and ceramic. Glue contents stay fresh with the airtight, leak proof cap.

Krazy Glue Wood & Leather Glue




















Krazy Glue for Wood and Leather

Formulated especially for porous wood, leather and vinyl surfaces, this adhesive creates a strong, long lasting bond that is ideal for repairs and hobbies. This one drop applicator tube is great for working with precision.

Krazy Glue




















Krazy Glue

We are crazy for Krazy Glue. No need to mix, Krazy Glue bonds materials such as plastics, metal, rubber, and ceramics in an instant. To purchase Krazy Glue click here.

Mod Podge Outdoor




















Mod Podge Outdoor

Inside out, now there is really no excuse not to get out of the house. Get your work out there with this water based sealer, glue and finish that lets you decoupage for the outdoors. It seals and protects wood, terra cotta, slate, tin and more. Dries fast and clear. To buy this product click here.

Mod Podge




















Mod Podge

The all-in-one sealer, glue and finish, Mod Podge is perfect for use with paper, wood, fabric and other porous surfaces. As a glue, it dries clear, holds tight, is non-toxic and can be cleaned up with soap and water. Mod Podge can also be used as a sealer used to protect acrylic paints, stains, decoupage and fabrics. As a finish, it may be sanded between coats for a super smooth surface. Look for other Mod Podge products including Glitter, Glow in the Dark, Shimmer, Sparkle, Hardcoat and more by searching for Mod Podge on the Mixed Media Art Supply Website.

Elmer's Wood Glue



















Elmer's Wood Glue

Specifically formulated for wood, this glue grabs fast but allows repositioning. It can be painted, will not gum up from heat when sanded or sawed. Elmer's Wood Glue cleans up with water, is non-flammable, non-toxic and has no harmful fumes. This is a glue that carpenters everywhere rely on. To buy Elmer's Wood Glue click here.

Elmers




















Elmer's Glue

Okay, you can't forget old faithful. Every household should have this glue on hand. This white non-staining glue becomes transparent when dry. It can be used for paper, wood, glass, tile and all porous and non-porous materials. To purchase Elmer's Glue click here.

Sobo Glue



















Sobo Glue

Sobo Glue is a popular choice for crafts, hobbies, school projects and general household use. This fast setting glue works well on porous and semi-porous surfaces such as paper, wood, ceramics, ribbon, and beads. It is a great glue for decorative fabric and is clear drying, flexible and non-toxic. To purchase Sobo Glue click here.

Sticky Ass Glue



















Sticky Ass Glue

Sticky Ass Glue is a stubbornly strong polyurethane glue that doesn't monkey around when it comes to building lasting bonds! It will securely bond dozens of materials used in craft and art projects including wood, stone, glass, metal, and more. Made in the USA, this adhesives thick formula cures with moisture, water can be added to it to accelerate the cure time. Sticky Ass Glue is amber in color and dries waterproof. To purchase this product click here.

Tacky Glue




















Tacky Glue

Tacky glue is ideal for household fix-it jobs, arts and crafts projects. An all around great glue whether you are working on paper or securing broken tiles. Ideal for most craft projects, Tacky Glue always dries clear and flexible. Non-toxic. Available in convenient squeeze bottles or wide mouth jars. Ideal for children's projects as glue will wash out of fabric. Safe. No harmful fumes. To purchase Tacky glue click here.

Yes Stikflat Glue
















Yes Stikflat Glue

This all-purpose arts and crafts glue, won't buckle, curl or wrinkle lightweight paper due to its low water content. It's used by many professionals, including bookbinders, printers, libraries, and graphic designers. Yes Stikflat Glue is 100% acid free, smooth flowing adhesive, and is permanently flexible. Low odor and easy clean-up and slow setting for allowing for easy repositioning. To purchase Yes Glue click here.

pH Neutral PVA Adhesive



















pH Neutral PVA Adhesive

Made of archival polyvinyl acetate (PVA), this white, neutral pH adhesive is an excellent adhesive for bookbinding, collage or general artwork. The adhesive spreads well, has good open time and lay flat characteristics. Dries acid free, solvent free and water soluble. To purchase PVA adhesive click here.

Poly Vinyl Acetate (PVA)




















Poly Vinyl Acetate (PVA)
Diluted with distilled water, PVA size is a contemporary size for fabric support. PVA seals the fabric but does not re-absorb atmospheric moisture, preventing the size layer from swelling and shrinking. It has a neutral pH and does not yellow, plus it retains its flexibility, does not emit harmful volatiles, and protects fabric from the ground. PVA does not tighten the fabric like rabbit skin glue, so stretch fabric tightly. To purchase PVA size click here.

12.10.2009

Yatsutomo Nori Paste




















Nori Paste

Nori Paste is an excellent acid free, archival safe paper glue that dries clear, won't stain, and washes off easily. It is a non-toxic starch based adhesive that can be mixed with PVA glue for a stronger bond and longer working time. Nori adheres paper to other hard substrates such as glass, metal and plastic. It can be thinned with water and can also be used as a medium to bind dry pigments. Excellent for book binding applications or adhering and repositioning thin delicate papers without the risk of tearing. Click here to purchase Yatsutomo Nori Paste