Due to concerns about the film strength of this white, I’ve ceased making it or using it in other colours. In an abundance of caution, I’ve changed the formulation. However, while Zinc has been used in many manufacturers’ paints over the years, the amounts are not enough to cause damage.  If you have the discontinued formulation, it will cause no damage when used appropriately. In the meantime, we will leave the information below for those artists who might still wish to know the history and use of the colour.

Zinc White was first used in 18th century France, and its early misuse as a canvas primer seems to have frightened artists away from examining its unique qualities. It has a cool transparency and a subtle power that enable artists to create slightly hued mixes that retain their chromatic intensity and brightness, unlike mixes made with the blasting strength of Titanium White. The softness of its surface when dry is not a disadvantage when it’s used in this way, as the better curing paints will strengthen the mix. Concerns have been raised regarding the long-term strengths of Zinc White, and we await the results of further studies.

Due to concerns about the film strength of this white, I’ve ceased making it or using it in other colours. In an abundance of caution, I’ve changed the formulation. However, while Zinc has been used in many manufacturers’ paints over the years, the amounts are not enough to cause damage.  If you have the discontinued formulation, it will cause no damage when used appropriately. In the meantime, we will leave the information below for those artists who might still wish to know the history and use of the colour.

Series 1

Zinc White

(No. 103) Withdrawn

Zinc White was first used in 18th century France, and its early misuse as a canvas primer seems to have frightened artists away from examining its unique qualities. It has a cool transparency and a subtle power that enable artists to create slightly hued mixes that retain their chromatic intensity and brightness, unlike mixes made with the blasting strength of Titanium White. The softness of its surface when dry is not a disadvantage when it’s used in this way, as the better curing paints will strengthen the mix. Concerns have been raised regarding the long-term strengths of Zinc White, and we await the results of further studies.