The process of cleaning oil painting applicators involves removing residual paint from the bristles or fibers after use. This typically requires the use of solvents or specific cleaning agents to dissolve and dislodge the oil-based pigments. An example is the systematic removal of color from a brush following a painting session, ensuring it is free of buildup.
Proper and consistent applicator maintenance prolongs the life of the tools, preserving their shape and performance characteristics. Moreover, preventing hardened paint accumulation contributes to achieving cleaner color mixes in future projects and avoids unwanted contamination of hues. Historically, artists have devised various methods, from rudimentary solvent baths to sophisticated multi-stage cleaning processes, all aimed at maintaining the integrity of their painting tools.