Guides

Use 2-step filtering below to locate your desired topic.

All

Will all oil mediums make my painting glossy?

Oil-based mediums and some alkyds will dry glossy, but others will dry to a satin or even matte finish. To increase matting, add some solvent to your painting mix –...

Ultimate guide to varnishing your oil paintings

Discover how to protect and enhance your oil paintings with our expert varnishing guide. Learn the best techniques, choose the right varnish, and ensure your artwork remains vibrant and pristine...

What are drying and semi-drying oils in oil painting?

Explore our guide to drying and semi-drying oils in oil painting. Learn about their types, uses, and effects on paint quality, from consistency to drying times.

How do I protect myself and the environment whilst using oil paints?

Explore essential health and safety practices for artists in this guide to protecting yourself, maintain a safe studio environment, and responsibly dispose of hazardous materials to ensure both your well-being and...

Is oil paint difficult to clean from brushes?

Discover efficient and eco-friendly brush cleaning techniques with Winsor & Newton’s Brush Cleaner. Learn expert tips to maintain your brushes, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your tools are always ready...

Are Winton Oil Colours more or less viscose than Artists' Oil Colour?

The Winton Oil Colour range has a more uniform consistency than Artists' Oil Colour and is slightly stiffer. It offers excellent retention of brush and palette knife strokes.

Which white should be used for underpainting?

Discover why the Artists' Oil Colour Underpainting White is preferred for underpainting.

How do I prime different types of canvas?

If you’re working with cotton canvas and want to use either oil or acrylic colour, an acrylic gesso primer is generally used, though you can use any of them. If you’re priming...

What are the pre-primed canvas options?

You don’t have to size and prime a canvas yourself. Winsor & Newton offers acrylic-primed cotton and linen pre-stretched canvases in different depths and sizes. If you want to avoid...

What is the difference between priming and underpainting?

While priming prepares the canvas ready to receive paint, underpainting is a first layer of paint applied after priming. Traditionally a lean layer with a reduced palette, it’s a tonal rendering...

What does sizing a canvas mean?

Understand the crucial differences between sizing and priming. Discover how these techniques protect and enhance your artwork, ensuring a durable and professional finish.