One of the most compatible solvents to use with oil paint is turpentine. It’s also one of the strongest solvents. It thins paint effectively, leaving a layer of pigment dispersed evenly throughout.

To thin oil paint for a home improvement project, mix 2 parts oil paint with 1 part turpentine. Gradually stir in more turpentine until you reach your desired consistency. For more tips, like how to test the consistency of your oil paint before using it, keep reading!

The most basic way to thin oil paint is by using a solvent such as mineral spirits or turpentine. Solvents will thin the paint very rapidly and thoroughly and are low viscosity, which means they have a more watery consistency. You can thin the paint with a small amount to make it buttery, or thin it to a soup-like consistency so you can quickly ...

Artists who want to extend the drying time of oil paint, for example because they want to use the wet-on-wet technique, can initially dilute oil paint with turpentine and then continue working with oil paint alone. Here you can find a step-by-step explanation for thinning oil paint and which mediums are best to use for oil paint.