With a very long history, linseed oil paint is, again becoming an excellent alternative to conventional paints. It can be used on wood, metal and is available in emulsion, preventing rot, rust and cracking.

WHAT IS LINSEED OIL PAINT?

Linseed oil paint is made by pressing the dried, ripened seeds of the flax plant. The seeds can be warm pressed but cold pressed results in fewer impurities and is considered the better option. It is also environmentally friendly, has no solvents, binders or synthetic emulsifiers. This also means that there is little need for ventilation during the application as there is very little odour.

WHY USE LINSEED OIL PAINT?

There are a whole host of reasons why, I believe, linseed oil paint is a much better alternative. Here are a few

DURABILITY

Linseed oil paint lasts a very long time (examples have been found in Europe that are over 500 years old!!!) Modern paint tends to crack and peel after approximately 5 years where linseed oil paint lasts considerably longer, upwards of 15 years. The colour is retained for many years, however if it does become a little dull, rubbing linseed oil over the surface can bring it back for very little cost.

COST EFFECTIVE

Linseed oil paint costs more by the tin, however the coverage is 2-3 times that of conventional paint, and there is also no need for undercoats and primers thus saving you money further. Another plus for linseed oil paint.

PROTECTION

Linseed oil paint has fantastic wicking properties, permitting the two-way transfer of humidity instead of trapping moisture under an impermeable film. Rather than being a surface treatment, the paint soaks deep into the wooden fibres, strengthening throughout.

There are a couple of downsides, however. Linseed oil paint dries primarily via oxidation, which means longer drying times. It is usually ready for a second coat after 24 hours. There is also less choice when it comes to colours. There is a wide range of colours but in comparison to conventional paint, a little lacking.

Linseed oil paint, therefore, is cost effective, extremely durable, has fantastic protection qualities, is environmentally friendly and a pleasure to use. A win, I believe, for linseed oil paint.