Removing "Skin" From Pigment Sticks
As your Pigment Sticks® begin to dry, a film of dried paint or "skin" will begin to cover areas exposed to oxygen. If you find a skin has formed on the surface of your stick, you can gently remove it with a paper towel or rag and Linseed oil, or the use of a razor blade. Below, you'll find the steps to remove this dried paint film and to maximize the workable paint within.
STEP 1: Remove the portion of the label covering the paint you will be using during your painting session.
STEP 2: Apply mineral oil or Linseed oil to a paper towel or rag. We recommend using a lint-free option such as Kleenex Premiere.
Wipe in a circular motion until the film has been removed.
STEP 3: If the skin is very thick you may need to use a blade or X-Acto knife to begin the removal process. Follow this with Step 2 for the best results.
TO CONSIDER
It is possible to slow the oxidizing process which leads to the formation of this out layer. You can learn more about this in our "R&F Pigment Sticks®: How To Store Your Paint" on our blog, Unique Color.
The dry film can protect the inner paint for a long period of time. If you choose to leave your sticks uncovered, this film will help protect the usable paint within.
Small fragments of Pigment Stick® left over during the painting process can often still be used. We recommend using a palette knife to mix these pieces with R&F Blending Medium. The paint can then be used with a brush or brayer.
To see a video of this process, and for more ideas on using Pigment Sticks®, please visit our recent "Demo Video: R&F Pigment Sticks®"
