Oil painting is a beautiful, timeless medium, but it comes with challenges like slow drying times and thick textures that can be hard to manipulate. That’s where Liquin mediums come in. Developed by Winsor & Newton, Liquin mediums are alkyd-based and designed to speed up drying time, improve flow, and enhance durability. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, using the right Liquin medium can transform your painting experience.
What Are Liquin Mediums?
Liquin is a range of fast-drying mediums that modify the working properties of oil paints. Unlike traditional oil-based mediums (like linseed oil or stand oil), Liquin dries faster and forms a strong, flexible film, making it ideal for artists who want to build layers efficiently.
Winsor & Newton Liquin Original
1. Liquin Original – The All-Purpose Medium
Best for: General use, glazing, and layering
• Speeds up drying time to half the normal rate.
• Improves flow and leveling, making brushstrokes smoother.
• Provides a semi-gloss finish.
• Ideal for thin layers and glazing techniques.
This is the most commonly used Liquin medium and is perfect if you want a reliable, multi-purpose medium that enhances fluidity without compromising color vibrancy.
Winsor & Newton Liquin Fine Detail
2. Liquin Fine Detail – For Ultra-Smooth Brushwork
Best for: Fine details, precision work, and thin layers
• Thinnest consistency in the Liquin range.
• Helps create smooth, flowing brushstrokes with no visible texture.
• Perfect for fine lines, portrait painting, and detailed work.
• Dries to a non-yellowing satin finish.
If you work with intricate details and need your paint to flow effortlessly, Liquin Fine Detail is the best choice.
Winsor & Newton Liquin Light Gel
3. Liquin Light Gel – For a Softer Touch
Best for: Soft, blended effects and slight impasto
• Soft gel consistency that retains some brushstrokes.
• Enhances transparency and depth, making it great for glazes and soft transitions.
• Speeds up drying time while maintaining a satin finish.
This medium is perfect for artists who love subtle texture but still want quick drying and improved flow.
Winsor & Newton Liquin Impasto
4. Liquin Impasto – For Thick, Textured Painting
Best for: Heavy brushstrokes, impasto, and texture building
• Thicker gel consistency, ideal for creating body and volume.
• Dries slightly slower than other Liquin mediums, allowing for textural work.
• Dries to a semi-matte finish.
• Great for artists who want depth and bold textures in their work.
If you love expressive, textured painting, Liquin Impasto helps create a dimensional look without cracking.
Winsor & Newton Liquin Oleopasto
5. Liquin Oleopasto – For Extreme Textures & Knife Painting
Best for: Palette knife painting and heavy impasto work
• Thickest Liquin medium, retaining peaks and ridges.
• Dries slightly faster than pure oil paint but still allows working time.
• Provides a matte finish with a firm texture.
• Adds transparency while maintaining a strong body.
For artists who work with knife techniques and thick applications, Liquin Oleopasto helps maintain sharp textures while reducing drying time.
Demonstration of Winsor & Newton Liquin Mediums
How to Use Liquin Mediums in Your Painting
1. Mixing – Start by adding a small amount of Liquin to your oil paint on a palette. A good ratio is 1 part Liquin to 4 parts paint, adjusting based on the consistency you want.
2. Layering – Follow the fat over lean rule, applying thinner Liquin mediums (Fine Detail, Original) in early layers and thicker ones (Impasto, Oleopasto) later.
3. Drying Time – Liquin mediums can dry touch-dry in 24 hours, making it easier to layer without waiting weeks.
4. Cleaning Up – Use mineral spirits or turpentine to clean brushes, as Liquin dries into a strong film that can be difficult to remove once hardened.
Effects of various Winsor & Newton Liquin Mediums
Which Liquin Medium Should You Choose?
• If you want a versatile all-rounder → Liquin Original
• If you work with fine details → Liquin Fine Detail
• If you prefer soft blends → Liquin Light Gel
• If you love thick, bold brushstrokes → Liquin Impasto
• If you work with palette knives → Liquin Oleopasto
If you’re looking for a game-changer in oil painting, Liquin is a must-try!
Find the best Liquin medium for your style at Art Lounge and start experimenting with new techniques today!