Most artist paint tubes perform perfectly, but occasionally you may notice oil or binder separating, paint leaking when first opened, or a tube appearing less full than expected.
In many cases, these are normal characteristics of tube paints rather than faults, and can be resolved easily.
Binder Separation
If a clear or oily liquid comes out before the colour, the binder has slightly separated from the pigment in the tube.
This can happen with many types of artist paint, particularly after long periods of storage or temperature changes, and is not usually a sign that the paint is faulty.
To restore the paint:
Stir the contents inside the tube using a clean cocktail stick or similar narrow tool.
Mix the binder back into the pigment thoroughly.
Once recombined, the paint should return to its normal consistency.
Paint Leaks or Shoots Out When Opening
A new tube can sometimes seem to be under pressure, causing paint to flow out quickly when the cap is first removed.
This is usually caused by the tube being filled very close to capacity or by a small pocket of trapped air.
Before opening a new tube:
Hold the tube upright with the cap facing upwards.
Gently tap the folded end of the tube against a table to encourage the paint towards the bottom and any air towards the top.
Unscrew the cap slowly.
If a small amount of paint comes out unexpectedly, you can often squeeze the sides of the tube gently to draw some paint back inside.
Any excess paint can also be used immediately, allowed to dry on a palette (where appropriate), or transferred into an empty paint pan for future use.
A Tube Appears Underfilled
Paint tubes are filled according to the amount of paint they contain, not necessarily how full the tube appears.
Some paints are denser than others, so tubes containing the same stated quantity can look noticeably different.
If, after using the paint, you believe the contents are genuinely lower than expected or the paint appears abnormal, please contact our Customer Service Team with photographs and we'll be happy to investigate.
Paint Has a Strong or Unusual Smell
Some artist paints naturally have a noticeable smell.
For example, oil colours may smell of linseed or safflower oil, while some pigments and binders have their own characteristic odours. This does not necessarily indicate that the paint has spoiled or is unsafe to use.
A paint may require further investigation if it develops an unusually strong sour, rotten or mouldy smell, particularly if this is accompanied by visible mould, significant discolouration or a change in texture.
If you're concerned that your paint may be faulty, please contact our Customer Service Team with photographs and details of the product.
Looking After Paint Tubes
To help keep your paints in the best condition:
Store tubes in a cool, dry place.
Where practical, store them with the cap facing upwards.
Avoid prolonged exposure to excessive heat or freezing temperatures.
Open new tubes slowly and carefully.
Still Having Problems?
If you've tried the advice above and your paint still appears faulty, such as persistent leakage, unusual consistency, or a genuine filling issue, please contact our Customer Service Team with photographs of the tube and the issue.
We'll be happy to investigate and advise further.