Can I Cover My Old Oil Painting with Acrylics?

Yes, you can cover an old oil painting with acrylics, but there are important considerations and steps to follow to ensure a successful and durable result.

Drying Time

Ensure the oil painting is fully dry: Oil paints can take months or even years to cure completely. This curing process depends on the thickness of the paint and the medium used. Proper drying ensures maximum adhesion and a longer-lasting result with the acrylics.

Surface Preparation

Clean the surface: Clean the surface of the oil painting to remove any dust or grime. This helps create a smooth and even base for the acrylic paint to adhere to. Light sanding: If the oil painting has a glossy finish, lightly sanding the surface can help improve the grip and adhesion of the acrylic paint.

Acrylic Gesso

Apply a layer of acrylic gesso: Acrylic gesso can create a suitable surface for the acrylic paint. This step is particularly useful if the oil painting has a glossy finish, as it helps create a smoother base for the acrylics.

Compatibility

Acrylic paint compatibility: Acrylic paint can be applied over oil paint but not the other way around. Once you cover the oil painting with acrylics, you may not be able to revert to oil paints without significant effort. This is due to the different chemical properties of oil and acrylic paints.

Testing the Acrylic Paint

Test on a small area: It is advisable to test the acrylic paint on a small, inconspicuous area of the oil painting to check its adhesion and interaction with the surface. This helps to identify any potential issues before applying the paint to a larger area.

Why Covering with Acrylics is Generally Not Recommended

Cautions: While it is possible to cover an old oil painting with acrylics, there are several reasons why this might not be the best choice. Acrylics and oil paints are completely different in their chemical properties, and the acrylic paint may not adhere properly, leading to issues like cracking and flaking.

When acrylic paint is dried, it becomes a near-impervious plastic. However, before it is completely dried, it does not bond well to oily oil paints. Every school child knows that oil and water do not mix. Similarly, acrylics and oil paints have different solvents, and this can cause compatibility issues. The acrylics will not adhere well to the oil paint, leading to flaking and other issues.

Alternatives to Covering Oil Paint with Acrylics

Painting with Acrylics: If you need to alter an old painting, consider using acrylics instead of oil paints. Acrylics can be a more durable option, especially for fragile objects, as they are less prone to flaking off. However, even high-quality acrylics are not guaranteed to last for years, especially if applied too thickly.

Consulting a professional conservator can be valuable if you are unsure about the best approach. Professional conservators have the expertise to handle delicate artworks without causing damage or altering their integrity.

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