Gamblin – Galkyd Gel
6.250 kr. m.vsk
Here’s a thorough overview of Gamblin Galkyd Gel, based on manufacturer info and artists’ feedback:
A stiff alkyd‑resin gel designed to speed up oil paint drying—typically touch‑dry in 24–48 hours
Boosts gloss and transparency, and preserves strong impasto texture
Created for artists who enjoy oil’s body but want quicker drying and layering
Available in a 150 ml tube, which offers convenient handling and reduced skinning compared to bottles
Impasto & layering: Ideal for bold, textured brushstrokes that dry fast—great for working on multiple pieces
“I like Galkyd Gel… the quicker drying can be a big plus.
Glazing: Can be mixed thinly with paint (often thinned with Gamsol or linseed oil)—recommended ratio ≤ 25% for glazing
Not for varnishing: It’s not a final varnish—Gamblin advises using a removable, non‑yellowing varnish like Gamvar instead
Be cautious of tackiness: Over‑application atop finished layers can stay sticky. Gamblin recommends spraying light coats into the palette rather than painting all over with medium .
Yellowing: Excess use or thick layers may yellow over time—especially in poorly lit environments—drying in lighted, ventilated space helps .
Storage: Since alkyd mediums thicken when exposed to air, store upside‑down or add small amounts of Gamsol as needed
Smell & solvents: Contains odorless mineral spirit (Gamsol). If you prefer no solvent at all, Gamblin’s Solvent‑Free Gel is a good alternative
“I like Galkyd Gel… it really does create a wonderful flow to the paint without making it too thin, and the quicker drying can be a big plus.
“Galkyd is great for drying speed (I use Neo Megilp)… but it’s not quite the same texture as adding oil.”
“If you’re looking to decrease drying time, definitely use an alkyd medium like Liquin… but I prefer Galkyd Gel over Liquin.”
These voices highlight:
Speed and body are big pluses.
It changes texture—thicker than adding just oil.
Less odorous than Liquin, but still contains solvent.
Choose Galkyd Gel if you:
Want bold impasto with fast drying.
Like glossy, transparent layers
Paint quickly or in multiple sessions.
Consider alternatives if you:
Want a lower-gloss or matte finish (use Gamblin’s solvent-free gel or Neo Megilp instead)
Avoid solvents—solvent-free gel is made with safflower oil and alkyd resin
Usage guidelines:
Mix moderately with oil paint—don’t overcoat final layers.
Dry in light/airflow to avoid stickiness or yellowing.
Seal with proper varnish (e.g., Gamvar), not Galkyd.
Gamblin Galkyd Gel is a powerful tool for achieving thick, textured strokes with much faster drying times—excellent for building layered oil work. But it’s not a finish varnish, and can be glossy or tacky if misused. With mindful handling and ratio control, it gives you creamy, quick-drying oil paint with rich sheen.
