Page:Cyclopedia of Painting-Armstrong, George D (1908).djvu/40

32 and chrome yellows. White lead and red lead are also unsuitable for the purpose.

For all ordinary distemper work one of the many sanitary distempers which are to be obtained in a wide range of colors is recommended. They are sold in dry form, and require but the addition of water to render them ready for use.

The secret of success in applying distemper is to get as much on the surface as possible without making a mess

or splashing any of it on the walls and floor. The brush must be used smoothly, and not slapped against the work. Dip fairly deeply and squeeze out some of the calcimine. Then apply all around as far as the brush will reach. Be very careful not to go over the work a second time. Distemper is unlike oil paint. If it does not look satisfactory when applied, the only thing to be done is to wash off and commence again. It is usually necessary to have a stick in the pail with which to occasionally stir up the mixture.