Pigments are essential tools for artists' creation. How to preserve and maintain pigments and keep colors as fresh as new is a concern for every artist. This article will provide you with detailed methods for the preservation and maintenance of pigments.
I. Preservation of Pigments 1. Protection from Moisture and Heat: Pigments are prone to deterioration in damp and high-temperature environments. Therefore, pigments should be stored in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight. 2. Tightly Sealed Storage: After opening the pigment, immediately cover it with the lid to prevent oxygen and moisture in the air from entering. For some easily dried pigments, you can use plastic wrap or plastic bags for sealing storage. 3. Classification of Storage: Different types of pigments should be stored separately to avoid chemical reactions caused by mixing. At the same time, pigments of the same category should also be classified according to their color depth, brightness, and other characteristics. 4. Avoid Over-Mixing: Over-mixing will make the particles in the pigment larger, affecting the color effect and uniformity of the pigment. Therefore, when storing pigments, avoid excessive shaking and mixing. II. Maintenance of Pigments 1. Clean Brushes: Used brushes should be cleaned promptly to prevent the pigment from drying on the brush and affecting its next use. When cleaning brushes, you can use soap water or professional brush cleaner. 2. Adjust Pigment Consistency: If the pigment is too dry or viscous, you can add an appropriate amount of water or solvent to dilute it; if the pigment is too thin, you can add an appropriate amount of pigment powder to thicken it. 3. Regularly Replace Pigments: Pigments that have been used for a long time may deteriorate due to chemical reactions or contamination. Therefore, it is necessary to replace pigments regularly to ensure the quality of the painting.