Notebook

Notebook, 1993-
MATERIALS & METHODS - Painting - Oil Painting - Binders and Diluents - Varnishes - Natural Resins
Characteristics - Painting Methods & Techniques - Materials and Equipment - Work Space & Storage - Manufacture of Pigments - Protection of the Picture
From: Kay, Reed. The Painter's Guide to Studio Methods and Materials. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1983.

Natural Resins- Mastic

Mastic resin is exuded in small round tears from certain trees that grow in the Mediterranean region. When it is chewed, it softens--a characteristic distinguishing it from sandarac which it resembles. It may be dissolved in turpentine or alcohol but not in mineral spirits. Mastic resin is said to bloom more readily than dammar varnish, and it yellows slightly--some say more than dammar does. The artist can make it in the studio by the same method described for dammar solution.

When heavy-solution mastic varnish is combined with boiled linseed oil, a jelly-like salve is produced called megilp. This painting medium imparts a handsome surface and brushing quality to oil paints. However, it is noted for its tendency to darken and turn brittle with age, causing cracked surfaces and deepened tones. [p. 50]

[Kay, Reed. The Painter's Guide to Studio Methods and Materials. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, Inc., 1983.]

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