AboutRobert M. Vincent Experience Past/Present clients include several galleries and specialty retail shops in Louisiana, Texas, and Florida. Also, several commissions in Watercolor, Oil Paintings, Glass & Tile Mosiac, Charcoal, and Metal Sculpture from large corporations to private collectors.
Expert: Robert M. Vincent Date: 7/3/2008 Subject: cleaning paint brushes
Question I am an amateur painter. My method of cleaning paint brushes after doing some oil painting is apparently not good. After oil painting for about an hour, I dip and clean with turp (Turpenoid), then wipe off with water as much as possible, then let the brushes air dry till the next day. Sometimes, though, I find the brushes have hardened. (BTW, I use walnut oil in my paints.) Is there a better method for cleaning the paint brushes?
Answer Dear David,
I sincerely apologize, I sent you a response the day after I got your question but I have no idea what happened. In any event, let's get this question answered for you.
There are a few items that I would suggest you getting if you don't already own them. The first is a premium (i.e., glass) Brush Cleaning Tank with an internal aluminum coil. You can find this product at Dickblick.com for $6.41 (product # B06909-1005). The second product is a premium turpentine or turpenoid; to be placed in the brush cleaning tank (product #'s B01010-1007 / B00443-1007). Finally, I highly recommend Master's Brush Cleaner and Preserver, I have used this product all of my professional painting career and love it! You can find this product at DickBlick.com as well and the product # is B05702-1004.
Please note that I have NO connection with nor to Dick Blick Art Materials and I urge you to use whoever you are comfortable with. In the event that you have not used an online art material supplier before, I will list art material suppliers that I have used personally and know to be reputable and price competitive.
Again, I apologize about the delay of my response to your question. I sincerely hope I have answered your question to your satisfaction; however, if you have any additional questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
