How to Mull Oil Paints
Artists who wish to create their own oil paints often mix oil, beeswax and pigments using a muller. A muller is a pestle-like tool that allows the artist to grind the pigments with the wax and oil into a proper paint consistency. This process of mulling paint with oil and wax dates back to the Renaissance.
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Things You'll Need
- 31 fl. oz. linseed oil
- Double boiler
- 1 oz. white refined beeswax
- Powdered pigment of choice
- Small spatula
- Muller
- Tube or jar for storage
Instructions
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1
Heat 7 ounces of the linseed oil in a double boiler over medium heat. Add the beeswax to the oil and stir until the mixture is thoroughly blended. Remove the double boiler from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. Add the remaining 24 ounces of linseed oil to the mixture and stir until blended. Allow the mixture to sit overnight.
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2
Place the powdered pigment on a flat, smooth surface. Make a well in the center of the pigment. Pour a little of the oil mixture into the well and carefully stir the pigment into the oil using the spatula. Continue to add oil until the paint achieves a paste-like consistency. Use as little of the oil as possible to achieve the desired consistency.
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3
Grind the paint with the muller using two hands, light pressure and a circular motion. You may need to use the spatula to scrape off paint that builds up along the side of the muller. Grind until the paint acquires glossiness and holds its shape rather than collapsing.
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4
Pour the paint into the storage container of your choice.
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Tips & Warnings
All of the ingredients listed above may be purchased at a local artist supply store or online.
Any leftover oil and wax may be used to mull other pigments.
References
- Photo Credit John Foxx/Stockbyte/Getty Images
