Mix Oil Base Paint
Until oil paint tubes were invented in the mid-nineteenth century, painters mixed all their own oil paints by hand. Oil paints are essentially just powdered pigments suspended in linseed oil, and can still be made today. Some artists will enjoy mixing these paints by hand. Mixing the paints personally gives one a greater appreciation and understanding of the oil painting process.
Instructions
1. Prepare linseed oil ahead of time by heating it in a double boiler (with water in the bottom). Add 2 percent pure beeswax. Mix the linseed oil thoroughly and allow to cool for one day. Store in an airless container.
2. Put on safety gear (mask, goggles and rubber gloves). Set up all materials so they are located within reach.
3. Place a small amount of linseed oil (or walnut oil) on the grinding slab.
4. Add a very small amount of pigment to the linseed oil.
5. Mash the pigment with the linseed oil, using the muller.
6. Add powdered pigment and linseed oil as the mixture begins to combine. You'll have to use your own judgment about the proportions--different types of linseed oil and different types of pigment will react together differently. It helps to have an inherent idea of what the paint should look like, so previous exposure to oil paint is recommended. Use a spatula to bring in the mixture when it becomes dispersed over the grinding surface. Continue to grind the paint until it is the desired consistency and the mixture is smooth.
7. Use a spatula to gather the paint when this process is finished. Store the paint in an airtight container.
