The paint thinners sold on the market are very aggressive products. If you want a gentler option for dissolving an oil paint, mix linseed oil and lemon oil; in the absence of the classic thinner, you can use acetone or white spirit. These alternative thinners work perfectly if you work in a well-ventilated environment and use the right proportions. If you need to dilute acrylic or latex paint, just use water.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Dilute the Oil Paint with Oil
Step 1. Get the supplies
You will need lemon oil and linseed oil, as well as a bowl and a stick to mix. You can buy these materials at a hardware or paint store.
Step 2. Mix lemon oil and linseed oil
Pour 60 ml of lemon oil and 250 ml of linseed oil into a bowl to mix them. Gently mix with the special stick.
Step 3. Stretch the paint with the mixture you just got
To dilute it, add the solution little by little, stirring occasionally with the stick. After adding about half a glass (120 ml) of the lemon and linseed oil solution, let the paint sit.
Method 2 of 3: Dilute the Oil Paint with a Common Solvent
Step 1. Put on a face mask, goggles, and rubber gloves
The solvents used to dilute the paint can produce toxic fumes, so use protective clothing and tools to avoid any irritation. Use old clothes so you don't worry if they get stained with thinner or paint.
Step 2. Work in an environment with good air circulation
Solvent fumes can be dangerous if they accumulate. For this reason, you should always dilute the paint in a well-ventilated place. If you can, work outdoors, otherwise open doors and windows.
You can improve air circulation by turning on a fan and placing it on a window sill or at the entrance to the room
Step 3. Choose the solvent
White spirit and acetone are excellent thinners that can be used as an alternative to traditional ones, such as turpentine. Try them to dilute oil-based paint. You can buy them at a hardware or home improvement store.
Step 4. Dosage
White spirit and acetone should be used in the right proportions to effectively dilute the paint. Always use one part solvent with three parts paint.
When you are ready to use the solvent as a thinner, pour a first half of it into the paint and stir carefully. Then add the rest and mix again
Method 3 of 3: Use Water to Dilute Acrylic or Latex Paint
Step 1. Dilute the paint in large quantities
Use a large bucket to dilute the paint in large quantities and make sure it maintains a homogeneous consistency. If you have to fill several buckets of paint, try to use the same proportions to blend it evenly.
Step 2. Pour the paint and water into the bucket, then mix
Use 30ml of room temperature water for one liter of paint. Transfer the paint to the bucket, then add the water. Stir well with the stick to blend the mixture.
Step 3. Adjust the consistency as needed by pouring small amounts of water
If the paint needs to be more liquid, keep adding water until you get the consistency you need. On the contrary, leave it thick.
