This year one of my big goals is to get my studio green, for my health and to be a good steward of the Earth.
The first thing I looked into is my use of solvents. I’ve been using a pretty limited quantity of Gamsol for a few years, for wash-ins and for brush cleaning. Right now I’m testing out Eco-Solve as a replacement, and my experience is mixed. It seems to work better as a brush cleaner, and I’ve improved my brush care as a result. But I’m not quite sure how I feel about it for a wash-in / map-in on canvas. It has an oilier feel to it.
Gamsol’s website says “Gamsol is the safest solvent that allows oil painters to utilize all traditional painting techniques without compromise.”
The label says “Vapor Harmful”.
Eco-solve’s website says “Made with processed soy bean oil. Non-Toxic:100% natural. Tested by professional toxicologists. Does not emit harmful vapors. Does not irritate the skin. Does not pollute the soil or waterways.”
It also says archival and non-yellowing, which are absolute musts for any painting materials I use. So I’m going to keep using it.
If you’d like to try it, here’s a link to a $5 off coupon. (That’s an affiliate link.)