Reflection of Light – Linseed Oil Paint Makes All the Difference

Why does the wood painted with linseed oil paint reflects the light so much different than wood painted with water based synthetic paint?

Linseed oil paint uses natural oil (linseed oil) as the binder. The oil penetrates into the wood, creating a finish that is partially absorbed rather than sitting only on the surface.


Once cured, linseed oil forms a flexible, semi-gloss, or satin-like surface that can look almost "alive" due to depth and translucency.

The oil layer enhance the natural texture of the wood grain, producing a more irregular, soft, and diffused light reflection. The reflection often looks warmer and deeper due to oil’s refractive properties and how it accentuates wood fibers.

Over time, linseed oil paint develops a patina—a soft sheen that enhances depth and complexity of light reflection.

So, the more natural, nuanced light reflection you see with linseed oil paint is due to its organic interaction with the wood, thin film, and light diffusion.