Oil Out
Plural: Oil Outs
Oil Out definition
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Oiling out (commonly called Oil Out) is a technique in oil painting used to restore an even sheen and color saturation to a dry or partially dry paint layer before continuing work. It involves applying a very thin layer of oil or painting medium to areas that have become dull, matte, or “sunken in.”
As oil paint dries, some pigments and absorbent grounds can pull oil away from the paint film, causing colors to appear lighter, flatter, and less saturated. Oiling out temporarily restores the original appearance of the paint and provides a more uniform surface for additional painting or glazing.
- Visual purpose: Restores depth, richness, and color intensity.
- Technical purpose: Creates a more consistent surface for new paint layers.
- Common use: Before glazing, blending, or continuing a painting after a drying period.
- Application: A very small amount of oil or medium is rubbed onto the surface and excess is wiped away.
Oiling out should be done sparingly. Excess oil can create adhesion problems, wrinkling, yellowing, or overly glossy surfaces over time.
Examples
“The dark background had become dull after drying, so the artist performed an oil out before applying the next glaze.” “After oiling out the portrait, the original depth of the shadows became visible again.” “Many painters oil out a painting before photographing it to obtain more accurate color reproduction.”
Context
Oiling out is most commonly associated with traditional oil painting techniques, especially when working in multiple sessions over days or weeks. It is frequently used by painters who employ glazing, indirect painting methods, or highly detailed realism.
The technique is closely related to the phenomenon known as sinking in, where areas of paint lose their gloss and appear chalky or lifeless as they dry.
Core Principles
- Use the minimum amount necessary.
- Apply a thin, even layer.
- Wipe away all excess medium.
- Allow the medium to settle before painting.
- Never use oiling out as a substitute for proper varnishing.
- Follow the “fat over lean” principle when adding new layers.
Derivation
The term Oil Out comes from the traditional expression “oiling out”, used by painters since the nineteenth century. The phrase literally refers to applying oil onto a dry paint surface to restore its appearance and working properties.