FAQ – Mediums

Do I need to use mediums with my MH Oil Paints? 

No, you do not need to use a medium with MH Oil Paints. You can use MH straight from the tube without adding any mediums if you wish.

I also make glaze mediums, varnishes, and additional oils to complement my oil paints. These can be used to follow artist’s painting techniques or to achieve a certain finish, should you wish.

View Mediums

Will varnishing a painting stop a painting from crumbling in the future?

No, varnish is just a layer to catch atmospheric dirt. Paint will generally last longer without a medium, as the more things you put into the paint the greater the chance something will go wrong. Sound supports, sound primers, and sound paints are the way to make things last; the varnish is just a temporary coat of protection.

Which oil paint medium is most effective in preventing or minimizing yellowing over time?

To minimise the occurrence of yellowing in your white oil paintings, it’s important to choose oil paint mediums that have a low tendency to yellow over time. Here are a few options you can consider:

1. Refined Linseed Oil: Refined linseed oil is a commonly used medium that tends to have a lower chance of yellowing compared to raw linseed oil. It dries to a clear, flexible film and is compatible with most oil paints.

2. Stand Oil: Stand oil is a thickened form of linseed oil that is heated during the refining process. It has a honey-like consistency and dries to a clear, glossy finish. Stand oil is less prone to yellowing than raw linseed oil but dries more slowly.

3. Safflower Oil: Safflower oil is a pale, low-yellowing oil that can be used as a medium for oil paints. It has a relatively slow drying time and produces a softer, more flexible film compared to linseed oil.

4. Walnut Oil: Walnut oil is another oil medium that has a lower tendency to yellow over time. It dries to a clear, semi-gloss finish and is known for its rich, buttery consistency. Walnut oil has a moderate drying time.

When using these oil mediums, it’s important to note that any oil paint will have some degree of yellowing potential over time due to the nature of the drying process. However, by selecting oil mediums with a lower likelihood of yellowing and taking proper care of your paintings (such as protecting them from direct sunlight and excessive humidity), you can help minimize the yellowing effect.

Q. What are the main ingredients used in Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils?

A: Here at Michael Harding, we pride ourselves on honesty; there are no hidden or secret ingredients in this beautifully crafted medium range. Each medium has the ingredients printed on the front of the label. The mainstay in the PM range is Refined Linseed Stand Oil, a viscous, pale oil medium extracted from linseed. It will level out brushstrokes in oil paint and slow the drying process. Refined Linseed Stand Oil has a honey-like viscosity. For more information, please visit our website www.michaelharding.co.uk.

Q. How do Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils differ from other brands on the market?

A: Our mediums are a high-end product. Why would you add an inferior medium to a top-end oil paint? They facilitate superior colour blending and effortless brush control.

Michael’s commitment to producing artist materials of the highest quality and to utilizing techniques that have been refined over centuries, dating back to the era of the Old Masters, sets our products apart. By employing these time-honoured techniques, Michael Harding has not just created a leading oil paint range that is true and vibrant but also a medium range that is beautifully durable and covers most glazing and layering techniques, enhancing an already beautiful range of oils.

Q. Are Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils compatible with other brands of oil paints?

A: Yes, for years, artists have had their preferences when it comes to colours, consistencies, and brands, and often, artists will use more than one brand at a time.

Q. What are the drying times of Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils?

A: The drying time for each product will vary depending on which medium or oil is used. While something like Refined Linseed Stand Oil would slow drying times, adding PM2 Dammar Glaze Medium would speed up drying times. For more information, please visit the specific product page you would like to know more about on our website www.michaelharding.co.uk.

Q. Are there specific techniques or applications where Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils excel?

A: Our oils and mediums excel in every technique and application.

Q. How do Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils affect the texture and finish of the final artwork?

A: Each product has its different properties, textures, and effects, depending on which product is used. This question would have a different answer for each one. Please go to the Mediums, Oils, and Varnishes tabs for information on each product.

Q. Are Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils suitable for use with different painting surfaces (e.g., canvas, wood, paper)?

A: Yes. If the substrate is good for the paint, then it is likely to be good for the medium, if the surface is sound and sealed.

Q. Do Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils have any special properties that make them stand out in the market?

A: Most of our products are do not contain animal derivatives (therefore are vegan) and are solvent free. We strongly employ ethical and sustainable practices in everything that we do.

Michael has not just created a leading oil paint range that is true and vibrant but also a medium range that is beautifully durable and covers most glazing and layering techniques, enhancing an already beautiful range of oil paints.

Q. Are Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils safe to use and environmentally friendly?

A: The harshest ingredient in our mediums (PM range) is Gum Turpentine. We offer an MH miracle medium range that seamlessly replaces traditional turpentine in artists’ studios.

Michael Harding Solvent-Free Mediums: Miracle Medium Range crafted for artists seeking safer, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional solvents. Derived from renewable vegetable sources, our Miracle Medium offers an odourless formula, eliminating the need for solvents in your studio. With MH miracle medium, artists can enjoy a studio environment free from harmful effects associated with solvents. The Miracle Medium plant-based range not only ensures environmental sustainability but also creates a safer space for artists and their loved ones for years to come. For more information, please visit our website www.michaelharding.co.uk.

Q. How do artists properly clean their brushes and tools when using Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils?

A: There are a few ways to clean up afterward: the old traditional way of soap and warm water, solvents including Gum Turpentine, or Michael Harding MM0 Miracle Medium; a solvent-free, odourless, vegan, and plant-based Medium that serves as an alternative to traditional turpentine. This medium offers artists a natural and sustainable option for thinning oil paints and cleaning brushes without the use of harsh chemicals or toxic fumes.

Q. Are there any specific tips or recommendations for artists using Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils for the first time?

A: Yes, firstly enjoy your purchase and thank you for choosing Michael Harding; you will not be disappointed. Secondly, read the product label carefully for recommendations and guidance. For more information, please visit our website www.michaelharding.co.uk.

Q. Can Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils be used for both traditional and contemporary painting styles?

A: Yes. Through the Renaissance, artists worked with combinations of tree resins, thickened vegetable oils, waxes, and balsams. The exact organization of these raw materials is open to speculation and may differ from one artist to another—even within an individual artist’s practice. Read more about the history and use of mediums.

Q. Are there any specific health or safety precautions artists should be aware of when using Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils?

A: Each product, as you would expect, may have different guidance. The precautions can be found on each label, and more information can be found by visiting our website www.michaelharding.co.uk.

SAFETY NOTE: Soft materials that have absorbed linseed oil should be stored in sealed containers, as the oil will oxidize when exposed to air. This chemical reaction releases so much heat that rags may spontaneously combust. Make sure the lid of the container is closed securely and stored in a cool place. Brushes and tools used with linseed oil should be cleaned thoroughly with white spirit.

We are proud to introduce the Michael Harding Miracle Medium range; this Solvent-Free product range offers a safe and environmentally conscious solution for artists as an alternative to traditional solvents. Crafted from renewable vegetable sources, MH miracle medium not only benefits the environment but also ensures a workspace free from exposure to toxic fumes typically associated with conventional solvents. By choosing MH Miracle Medium products, artists can enjoy a safer and more comfortable environment, allowing them to fully concentrate on their creative pursuits without compromising their well-being.

This versatile range facilitates superior colour blending, effortless brush control, and easy clean-up, enabling artists to elevate the quality of their artwork without the use of solvents.

MH miracle medium seamlessly replaces traditional turpentine in artists’ studios.

Q. How do Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils perform in terms of colour intensity and permanence?

A: Add a little extra to your paintings by using Michael Harding paint mediums; add depth and beauty to your painting by using PM1. PM2 is designed to create gloss and depth, while PM3 creates a satin sheen and gentle impasto in paint layers. PM4 increases the body of oil colour with a satin-matte finish. PM5 provides high gloss levels while imparting depth to paint films, and PM6 enhances depth, gloss, and lustre. PM7 offers luminosity to achieve extra body, V1 brings out the best in opaque and semi-opaque colours, and V2 provides a long-lasting, protective coating with a beautiful matte finish.

Q. Are there any recommended storage conditions for preserving the quality of Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils?

A: Yes, we recommend storing oils and mediums out of direct sunlight, as this could affect the properties of some products. Even though we have taken great care to house some of our larger oils and mediums in amber glass, it is still wise to store them in darkness, as direct sunlight could cause clouding.

SAFETY NOTE: Soft materials that have absorbed linseed oil should be stored in sealed containers, as the oil will oxidize when exposed to air. This chemical reaction releases so much heat that rags may spontaneously combust. Make sure the lid of the container is closed securely and stored in a cool place. Brushes and tools used with linseed oil should be cleaned thoroughly with white spirit.

Q. Do Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils have a strong odour, and is there a way to minimize it during use?

A: Michael Harding Oils and Mediums do not have any strong odours. Asides from Gum Turpentine, which is recommended to be used in a well-ventilated space. Keep away from heat and flames, as turpentine is a volatile and toxic material; please exercise caution when using this product.

Q. Can Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils be used for glazing or layering techniques?

A: Michael has created, on request, a great range of mediums to cover most glazing and layering techniques. For more information, please visit our website www.michaelharding.co.uk.

PM1 adds depth and beauty to your painting,
PM2 is designed to create gloss and depth,
PM3 creates a satin sheen and gentle impasto in paint layers, and
PM4 increases the body of oil colour with a satin-matte finish.
PM5 provides high gloss levels while imparting depth to paint films,
PM6 enhances depth, gloss, and lustre, and
PM7 offers luminosity to achieve extra body.

V1 brings out the best in opaque and semi-opaque colours, while V2 provides a long-lasting, protective coating with a beautiful matte finish.

Q. Are there any specific recommendations for varnishing or protecting artwork created with Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils?

A: There are no specific recommendations for varnishes and mediums, as each product has its own personality and characteristics. It is advised that when varnishing, apply varnish as a final picture varnish to thoroughly dried oil paint.

V1: Please be sure to have allowed your painting to dry for a minimum of six months, or if the paint is very thick, one year. Please ensure you are working in a well-ventilated space.

V2: Before using, heat the container until the contents become clear; then apply one thin coat. Apply this varnish as a final picture varnish to thoroughly dried oil paint. This product, when applied as directed above, will dry within minutes. Please ensure you are working in a well-ventilated space.

Q. What sets Michael Harding oil paint mediums and oils apart in terms of quality and performance compared to other brands on the market?

A: Michael’s commitment to producing artist materials of the highest quality and to utilizing techniques that have been refined over centuries, dating back to the era of the Old Masters, set our products apart. By employing these time-honoured techniques, Michael Harding has not just created a leading oil paint range that is true and vibrant, but also a medium range that is beautifully durable and covers most glazing and layering techniques, enhancing an already beautiful range of oils.

NEW: SOLVENT FREE, ODOURLESS MEDIUMS

INTRODUCING MICHAEL HARDING SOLVENT-FREE MEDIUMS: MIRACLE MEDIUM™—CRAFTED FOR ARTISTS SEEKING SAFER, ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL SOLVENTS.

DERIVED FROM RENEWABLE VEGETABLE SOURCES, OUR MIRACLE MEDIUM OFFERS AN ODOURLESS FORMULA, ELIMINATING THE NEED FOR SOLVENTS IN YOUR STUDIO. WITH MH MIRACLE MEDIUM, ARTISTS CAN ENJOY A STUDIO ENVIRONMENT FREE FROM HARMFUL EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH SOLVENTS.

THE MIRACLE MEDIUMâ„¢ PLANT-BASED RANGE NOT ONLY ENSURES ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY BUT ALSO CREATES A SAFER SPACE FOR ARTISTS AND THEIR LOVED ONES.

Learn More

SAFETY NOTICE

Soft materials that have absorbed linseed oil should be stored in sealed containers, as the oil will oxidize when exposed to air. This chemical reaction releases so much heat that rags may spontaneously combust. Make sure the lid of the container is closed securely and stored in a cool place. Brushes and tools used with linseed oil should be cleaned thoroughly with white spirit.

Learn More

HOW TO USE:

PM1 Oil Paint Medium

Michael Harding PM1 Oil Paint Medium is designed to enhance the flow and handling of oil paints, making them smoother and easier to work with. This medium can help in achieving a uniform finish and is suitable for both fine details and broader applications. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium in your oil painting:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes and palette knives
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding PM1 Oil Paint Medium
  5. Canvas or painting surface
  6. Michael Harding Miracle Medium for cleaning brushes

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:

    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.

  2. Add the Medium:

    • Pour a small amount of Michael Harding PM1 Oil Paint Medium into a separate container or onto a clean area of your palette.

  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:

    • Use a palette knife or brush to mix the PM1 Oil Paint Medium with your oil paint. Start with a small amount of medium and gradually add more until you achieve the desired consistency. The medium will make the paint smoother and easier to apply.

  4. Apply the Paint:

    • Apply the mixture to your canvas using a brush or palette knife. The medium will help the paint flow more smoothly and evenly, making it suitable for both detailed work and broader strokes.

  5. Build Layers:

    • For glazing or layering, use thin layers of paint mixed with the medium to build up depth and richness in your painting. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. For thicker applications, you can still use the medium to maintain a smooth finish.

  6. Drying Time:

    • The PM1 Oil Paint Medium will slightly speed up the drying time of your oil paints compared to using paint alone. This allows for quicker layering while still giving you time to blend and work wet-on-wet if needed.

  7. Clean Up:

    • Clean your brushes and palette knives with Michael Harding Miracle Medium. After cleaning with Miracle Medium, wash the brushes with soap and water to remove any remaining paint.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Experiment with Ratios: Start with a small amount of medium and adjust the ratio to find the right balance for your painting technique. More medium will increase flow and smoothness, while less will maintain more of the paint’s original texture.
  • Smooth Transitions: Use the medium to create smooth gradients and transitions in your painting, enhancing the overall finish.
  • Use Soft Brushes: For fine details and smooth applications, use soft brushes to avoid visible brushstrokes and achieve a more refined finish.
  • Enhance Flow: The medium is particularly useful for fine detail work and for creating a uniform, smooth application of paint.

Example Usage:

  1. Initial Layer:

    • Start with a base layer of oil paint, applying it with or without the medium depending on your preference. Let it dry completely if you plan to glaze over it.

  2. Mixing the Paint:

    • On your palette, mix a small amount of your chosen oil color with the PM1 Oil Paint Medium. Adjust the consistency to make the paint flow smoothly but not too runny.

  3. Applying the Paint:

    • Using a soft brush or palette knife, apply the mixture to your canvas. Work in even strokes for a smooth application. You can use this mixture for detailed work, broader areas, or glazing.

  4. Building Layers:

    • Allow the first layer to dry completely if you’re glazing. For layering, you can apply thin coats of the mixture to build depth and richness. Each layer will enhance the luminosity and depth of the painting.

  5. Final Touches:

    • Once you’ve built up the desired depth and smoothness with the medium, you can add final details and highlights with or without additional medium as needed. This will complete your painting with a refined, polished finish.

Using Michael Harding PM1 Oil Paint Medium helps create smooth, even layers of paint, enhancing the flow and handling of your oil paints for a professional and polished look.

PM2 Dammar Glaze Medium

Michael Harding PM2 Dammar Glaze Medium is a medium that enhances the transparency, gloss, and depth of oil paints, making it ideal for glazing and creating subtle color transitions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium in your oil painting:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding PM2 Dammar Glaze Medium
  5. Canvas or painting surface

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:
    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.
  2. Add the Medium:
    • Pour a small amount of Michael Harding PM2 Dammar Glaze Medium into a separate container or onto a clean area of your palette.
  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:
    • Dip your brush into the Dammar Glaze Medium and then mix it with your oil paint on the palette. Adjust the ratio of medium to paint to achieve the desired level of transparency. More medium will create a more transparent glaze.
  4. Apply the Glaze:
    • Apply the mixture to your canvas using a brush. Use long, smooth strokes to spread the glaze evenly over the surface. The medium will enhance the flow and gloss of the paint, allowing for smooth and even application.
  5. Layering Glazes:
    • Glazes are typically applied in thin, transparent layers to build up depth and luminosity. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next one. This will help achieve a rich, glowing effect as light passes through the multiple layers of glaze.
  6. Drying Time:
    • The Dammar Glaze Medium will speed up the drying time of your oil paint compared to using paint alone. This allows for quicker layering and glazing, but keep in mind that it still retains some flexibility for blending and working wet-on-wet.
  7. Clean Up:
    • Clean your brushes with a suitable solvent for oil paints, such as MH Miracle Medium or turpentine, followed by soap and water.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Experiment with Ratios: Start with a small amount of medium and adjust the ratio to find the right balance for your desired transparency and gloss.
  • Layer Carefully: Allow each glaze layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next to avoid muddling colors and to build up a luminous effect.
  • Thin Layers: Apply glazes in thin layers to maintain control over the transparency and to build depth gradually.
  • Brush Choice: Use soft brushes for smooth, even application of glazes.
  • Enhance Color: Use glazes to modify and enrich the colors beneath, adding depth and complexity to your painting.

Example Usage:

  1. Initial Layer:
    • Start with a base layer of oil paint, allowing it to dry completely before applying the glaze. This base layer can be a simple underpainting that establishes the general composition and values of your work.
  2. Mixing the Glaze:
    • On your palette, mix a small amount of your chosen oil color with the Dammar Glaze Medium. Aim for a consistency that is fluid but not overly runny.
  3. Applying the Glaze:
    • Using a soft brush, apply the glaze mixture over the dry base layer. Work in thin, even strokes to ensure a uniform application. You can adjust the intensity of the glaze by varying the amount of medium and paint in your mixture.
  4. Building Depth:
    • Allow the glaze to dry completely before applying additional layers. Each successive glaze will add depth and richness to the underlying colors. This method can be particularly effective for creating realistic skin tones, atmospheric effects, and luminous backgrounds.
  5. Final Touches:
    • Once you have built up the desired depth and complexity with your glazes, you can add final details and highlights with more opaque paint if necessary. This combination of transparent glazes and opaque highlights can create a striking contrast and enhance the overall impact of your painting.

Using Michael Harding PM2 Dammar Glaze Medium can significantly enhance the visual quality of your oil paintings, providing a glossy finish and enriching the depth of colors through glazing techniques.

PM3 Resin Oil Wax Medium

Michael Harding PM3 Resin Oil Wax Medium is a versatile medium designed to enhance the texture, gloss, and handling of oil paints. It combines the properties of resin, oil, and wax, making it suitable for various techniques, including glazing, impasto, and creating a smooth, buttery consistency. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes and palette knives
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding PM3 Resin Oil Wax Medium
  5. Canvas or painting surface

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:
    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.
  2. Add the Medium:
    • Pour a small amount of Michael Harding PM3 Resin Oil Wax Medium into a separate container or onto a clean area of your palette. You can always add more as needed.
  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:
    • Use a palette knife or brush to mix the Resin Oil Wax Medium with your oil paint. Start with a small amount of medium and gradually add more until you achieve the desired consistency. The medium will make the paint more fluid, glossy, and slightly thicker.
  4. Apply the Paint:
    • Apply the mixture to your canvas using a brush or palette knife. The medium enhances the flow and gloss of the paint, making it suitable for both fine details and broader, textured applications.
  5. Build Layers:
    • For glazing, use thin layers of paint mixed with the medium to build up depth and richness in your painting. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. For thicker applications, you can still use the medium to maintain a smooth, glossy finish.
  6. Drying Time:
    • The Resin Oil Wax Medium will slightly speed up the drying time of your oil paints compared to using paint alone, while still allowing for flexibility in blending and working wet-on-wet.
  7. Clean Up:
    • Clean your brushes and palette knives with a suitable solvent for oil paints, such as MH Miracle Medium or turpentine, followed by soap and water.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Experiment with Ratios: Start with a small amount of medium and adjust the ratio to find the right balance for your painting technique. More medium will increase gloss and flow, while less will maintain more of the paint’s original body.
  • Smooth Transitions: Use the medium to create smooth gradients and transitions in your painting. It’s especially useful for blending colors seamlessly.
  • Enhance Gloss: The medium adds a glossy finish to the paint, which can be beneficial for final layers or specific highlights.
  • Use Soft Brushes: For glazing and smooth applications, use soft brushes to avoid visible brushstrokes and achieve a more refined finish.
  • Texture Control: The wax component helps to control the texture of the paint, making it ideal for impasto techniques where you want to create thick, textured surfaces.

Using Michael Harding PM3 Resin Oil Wax Medium can significantly enhance the quality and versatility of your oil painting, allowing for a wide range of techniques from fine glazing to rich, glossy layers.

PM4 Beeswax Paste Medium

Michael Harding PM4 Beeswax Paste is a medium used in oil painting to add body, texture, and a matte finish to the paint. It is especially useful for impasto techniques and for achieving a more controlled, sculptural application. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes and palette knives
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding PM4 Beeswax Paste
  5. Canvas or painting surface

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:
    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.
  2. Add the Medium:
    • Place a small amount of Michael Harding PM4 Beeswax Paste next to your oil paints on the palette.
  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:
    • Use a palette knife to mix the Beeswax Paste with your oil paint. Start with a small amount of paste and gradually add more until you achieve the desired consistency. The paste will thicken the paint and give it a creamy, buttery texture.
  4. Apply the Paint:
    • Apply the thickened paint to your canvas using a brush or palette knife. The beeswax paste adds body to the paint, making it ideal for impasto techniques where you want to create textured, raised surfaces.
  5. Build Layers:
    • You can build up layers of paint mixed with Beeswax Paste. Allow each layer to dry partially if you’re working on a large area, or keep working wet-on-wet for blending and smooth transitions.
  6. Adjust Texture:
    • Experiment with the amount of Beeswax Paste to control the texture and body of the paint. More paste will result in a thicker, more sculptural application, while less paste will provide a subtle texture.
  7. Finish and Drying:
    • The Beeswax Paste will give your paint a matte finish. Keep in mind that the medium will slightly slow down the drying time of your oil paint, giving you more time to work and manipulate the paint.
  8. Clean Up:
    • Clean your brushes and palette knives with a suitable solvent for oil paints, such as MH Miracle Medium or turpentine, followed by soap and water.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Experiment with Ratios: Start with a small amount of paste and adjust the ratio to find the right balance for your desired texture and body.
  • Layering Techniques: Use the medium to create thick, textured layers, or blend it with less paste for smoother transitions.
  • Matte Finish: The beeswax paste will give a matte finish to your paint, which can be desirable for certain effects and contrasts.
  • Brushes and Knives: Use different tools to achieve various textures. Brushes can give a more controlled texture, while palette knives can create bold, expressive strokes.
  • Storage: Keep the medium tightly closed when not in use to prevent it from drying out or becoming contaminated.

Using Michael Harding PM4 Beeswax Paste can greatly enhance the texture and dimensionality of your oil paintings, allowing for expressive, bold applications of color and texture.

PM5 Oleo Resin Medium
Michael Harding PM5 Oleo Resin Medium is a versatile medium that enhances the flow, transparency, and gloss of oil paints, making it suitable for glazing, layering, and achieving smooth transitions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium effectively in your oil painting:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes and palette knives
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding PM5 Oleo Resin Medium
  5. Canvas or painting surface

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:
    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.
  2. Add the Medium:
    • Pour a small amount of Michael Harding PM5 Oleo Resin Medium into a separate container or onto a clean area of your palette. You can always add more as needed.
  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:
    • Use a brush or palette knife to mix the Oleo Resin Medium with your oil paint. Start with a small amount of medium and gradually add more until you achieve the desired consistency. The medium will make the paint more fluid, transparent, and glossy.
  4. Apply the Paint:
    • Apply the mixture to your canvas using a brush or palette knife. The medium will enhance the flow of the paint, making it easier to create smooth, even layers or detailed glazes.
  5. Layering and Glazing:
    • For glazing, use thin layers of paint mixed with the medium to build up depth and richness in your painting. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. For thicker applications, you can still use the medium to maintain a smooth, glossy finish.
  6. Drying Time:
    • The Oleo Resin Medium will slightly speed up the drying time of your oil paints compared to using paint alone. This allows for quicker layering and glazing, but keep in mind that it still retains some flexibility for blending and working wet-on-wet.
  7. Clean Up:
    • Clean your brushes and palette knives with a suitable solvent for oil paints, such as MH Miracle Medium or turpentine, followed by soap and water.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Experiment with Ratios: Start with a small amount of medium and adjust the ratio to find the right balance for your painting technique. More medium will increase transparency and flow, while less will maintain more of the paint’s original body.
  • Smooth Transitions: Use the medium to create smooth gradients and transitions in your painting. It’s especially useful for blending colors seamlessly.
  • Enhance Gloss: The medium adds a glossy finish to the paint, which can be beneficial for final layers or specific highlights.
  • Use Soft Brushes: For glazing and smooth applications, use soft brushes to avoid visible brushstrokes and achieve a more refined finish.
  • Keep Layers Thin: When glazing, keep layers thin to build up depth gradually without losing the luminosity of the underlying layers.

Using Michael Harding PM5 Oleo Resin Medium can significantly enhance the quality and versatility of your oil painting, allowing for a wide range of techniques from fine glazing to rich, glossy layers.

PM6 Balsam Resin Glaze Medium

Michael Harding PM6 Balsam Resin Glaze Medium is designed to enhance the depth, gloss, and flow of oil paints, making it ideal for creating glazes and subtle color transitions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium in your oil painting:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding PM6 Balsam Resin Glaze Medium
  5. Canvas or painting surface

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:
    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.
  2. Add the Medium:
    • Pour a small amount of Michael Harding PM6 Balsam Resin Glaze Medium into a separate container or onto a clean area of your palette.
  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:
    • Dip your brush into the Balsam Resin Glaze Medium and then mix it with your oil paint on the palette. You can adjust the ratio of medium to paint depending on how transparent you want the glaze to be. More medium will create a more transparent glaze, while less medium will result in a more opaque glaze.
  4. Apply the Glaze:
    • Apply the mixture to your canvas using a brush. Use long, smooth strokes to spread the glaze evenly over the surface. The medium will enhance the flow and gloss of the paint, allowing for smooth and even application.
  5. Layering Glazes:
    • Glazes are typically applied in thin, transparent layers to build up depth and luminosity. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next one. This will help achieve a rich, glowing effect as light passes through the multiple layers of glaze.
  6. Drying Time:
    • The Balsam Resin Glaze Medium will slightly speed up the drying time of your oil paint compared to using paint alone. Plan your painting sessions accordingly, especially if you intend to work in multiple layers.
  7. Clean Up:
    • Clean your brushes with a suitable solvent for oil paints, such as MH Miracle Medium or turpentine, followed by soap and water.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Test First: Experiment with different ratios of medium to paint to achieve your desired level of transparency and gloss.
  • Layer Carefully: Allow each glaze layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next to avoid muddling colors and to build up a luminous effect.
  • Thin Layers: Apply glazes in thin layers to maintain control over the transparency and to build depth gradually.
  • Brush Choice: Use soft brushes for smooth, even application of glazes.
  • Enhance Color: Use glazes to modify and enrich the colors beneath, adding depth and complexity to your painting.

Using Michael Harding PM6 Balsam Resin Glaze Medium can significantly enhance the visual quality of your oil paintings, providing a glossy finish and enriching the depth of colors through glazing techniques.

PM7 Oleo Impasto Medium

Michael Harding Oleo Impasto Medium is designed to add body and texture to oil paint, allowing artists to create thick, impasto effects with ease. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use this medium in your oil painting:

Materials Needed:

  1. Oil paints
  2. Brushes and palette knives
  3. Palette
  4. Michael Harding Oleo Impasto Medium
  5. Canvas or painting surface

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Prepare Your Palette:
    • Squeeze out the oil paints you plan to use onto your palette.
  2. Add the Medium:
    • Place a small amount of Michael Harding Oleo Impasto Medium next to your oil paints on the palette. You don’t need much, as a little goes a long way.
  3. Mix the Medium with Paint:
    • Use a palette knife or brush to mix the Oleo Impasto Medium with your oil paint. Start with a small amount of medium and gradually add more if needed. The medium will thicken the paint and increase its volume, allowing for more textured application.
  4. Apply the Paint:
    • Apply the thickened paint to your canvas using a brush or palette knife. The medium enhances the body of the paint, making it ideal for impasto techniques where you want to create raised, textured surfaces.
  5. Build Layers:
    • You can build up layers of paint with the Oleo Impasto Medium. Allow each layer to dry partially if you’re working on a large area, or keep working wet-on-wet for blending and smooth transitions.
  6. Drying Time:
    • The Oleo Impasto Medium will extend the drying time of your oil paints slightly, giving you more time to work and manipulate the paint. Keep this in mind when planning your painting sessions.
  7. Clean Up:
    • Wipe off any excess paint from your brushes, palette and palette knives, then clean your brushes, palette and palette knives with a solvent suitable for oil paints, such as MH Miracle Medium, or turpentine, followed by soap and water.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Experiment: Start with small amounts of the medium to understand how it affects the consistency of your paint. Adjust the ratio according to your desired texture.
  • Layering: For very thick applications, consider working in layers, allowing each to dry to avoid cracking.
  • Brushes vs. Palette Knives: Use different tools to achieve various textures. Brushes can give a more controlled texture, while palette knives can create bolder, more pronounced strokes.
  • Storage: Keep the medium tightly closed when not in use to prevent it from drying out or becoming contaminated.

Using Michael Harding Oleo Impasto Medium can greatly enhance the texture and dimensionality of your oil paintings, allowing for expressive, bold applications of color and texture.