The designation of purified or degummed is defined by the process used to remove the proteins and impurities in flax oil to create a high-quality linseed oil for wood surface preservation.

Many conventional linseed oil products, which are not purified/degummed can go rancid, cause mildew, and attract bugs.

Practices and opinions vary on the processing of Purified Linseed Oil, as well as what is truly considered a raw linseed oil vs. a boiled linseed oil.

The distinctions listed below are chosen by Earth+Flax to clarify the proper use of these products for the US market.

Ottosson Boiled Linseed Oil:

This is a purified/degummed linseed oil made from Ottosson Raw Linseed Oil. It is heated at a lower temp for an extended period of time, creating a drying linseed oil with a larger molecular structure.

It is a primary ingredient in Ottosson Linseed Oil Paint.

As a result of this process, it is excellent for creating a "primer" when painting interior trim for example (30% Linseed Oil Paint to 70% Ottosson Boiled Linseed Oil) on a bare wood surface. The Ottosson Boiled Linseed Oil offers a slightly faster dry time in comparison to the Viking Purified Raw Linseed Oil.

Viking Purified Raw Linseed:

Some, especially some Swedes, may argue that this is a boiled linseed oil as it is a heated, drying oil. It is made from food-grade flax oil from North Dakota. Once purified/degummed in Upstate NY, it is then heated once to 400+ degrees, resulting in a smaller molecular structure in comparison to a traditional boiled linseed oil. The end result is an exceptionally pale oil with superior penetrative properties. A very versatile oil, this product can be used with the Authentic Pine Tar, to create a custom Linseed Oil Stain, or used alone as an interior/exterior finish.

Ottosson or Allback Raw Linseed Oil:

This is a purified/degummed linseed oil that is typically left to settle out for a season or two outside. It is heated by the sun. It has a small molecular structure, excellent penetration, but a very, very long dry time.

At Earth+Flax, we prefer folks to use this option, when available, with some caution as when mixed with Linseed Oil Paint for example, it will extend dry time excessively.

This traditional "Swedish" raw linseed oil, as we may refer to it, is excellent for storing paint brushes in (wipe off any excess raw oil before painting again) or for applying to wood before removing paint with an infrared paint remover.

Linseed oil soaked rags can self-ignite. Dampen and dispose of to avoid a fire hazard.

No, Linseed Oil Paint or any purified linseed oil-based product is not combustible/flammable in the can or when applied to a surface.

Linseed oil is a self-heating oil (heats as it dries) like rapeseed oil, cottonseed oil, peanut and corn oil, etc.

Simply dampen and dispose of oil soaked rags, crumpled paper towels, etc. to avoid a fire hazard.

Ideally, you should paint or apply any of the natural coatings in 60+ degree weather with good air circulation.

Ensure a clean, dry surface before application.

The moisture content of the substrate should not exceed 15%.

40 degrees or below, dry time will basically come to a standstill so take this into account. Perhaps it is warm when you are painting and then drops in temperature in the evening.

This will extend your dry time.

All products should be kept at room temperature or warmer before painting to ensure a good flow during application.

If you are painting inside during the winter months, ensure your ambient temps are warm enough and set up some fans to promote air circulation.