Alkyd resins

Sold under a variety of names that may or may not contain the word alkyd, these mediums are synthetic resins that are excellent for oil painting because they dry quickly and work as an effective binder that encapsulates the pigment. Varieties made with safflower, soy beans and tobacco-seed oils hold color better than those made with linseed oil. Some alkyds look thick and tan colored in their container, but they become smooth and transparent when added to paint. The term alkyd was introduced in 1970 by Winsor & Newton, art materials manufacturing company, whose professional applauded its virtues of being similar to acrylic paint but drying faster. Sources: Christopher Willard, &#39;Methods and Materials&#39;; "American Artist Magazine", 6/2000; Kimberly Reynolds, "Illustrated Dictionary of Art Terms"; Ralph Mayer, "A Dictionary of Art Terms and Techniques" <br><br>Synthetic resins used in better-quality industrial house paints, enamels, and varnishes for over sixty years. In artists&#39; materials, they have proven promising particularly as ingredients in oil paints.