Linseed Oil Paint Is Becoming a Historic Restoration Favorite 

In this post, we are talking linseed oil paint—already beloved in historic restoration circles, and gaining serious traction in the U.S. over the past few years.

What Is Linseed Oil Paint?

Linseed oil paint is made from pure flaxseed oil that’s been pressed and boiled, and mixed with natural pigments.  It’s been around for centuries and is the original paint finish used in Colonial America and early 1900s timber work.  It retained its popularity in Scandinavia, and it is producers from that region that are helping drive renewed awareness in the US, as well as in the field practitioners like Melanie of Glaze Craft Windows (she is featured in this video).  As discussed in this video, Linseed oil paint has many upsides and is great for historical preservation work, especially on historic windows.

The Plastics Industry Tried to Kill Linseed Oil Paint

So where did linseed oil paint go? And why is it making a “comeback?”  Why would such a great and natural resource fall out of favor? Well once again, we have the plastics industry to thank.  Linseed oil paint fell out of favor in the mid-20th century with the rise of synthetic paints, which were faster to apply and heavily marketed as “modern,” scientific alternatives. Backed by the petrochemical and plastics industries, these new products promised convenience and quick results—appealing to the booming postwar housing market. As traditional craftsmanship declined, so did knowledge of how to properly use and maintain linseed oil paint. But with today’s growing awareness of microplastics, VOCs, and long-term sustainability, linseed oil paint is making a comeback. It’s durability, breathability, and environmental benefits are proving that the old ways still have a lot to offer.

Linseed Oil Paint’s Comeback in the Preservation Community

Because of its many benefits, and its natural qualities, it’s begun to make a big comeback in the preservation community.  Simply put, awareness is growing and people are impressed with its performance.  

Here are some of its benefits:

• 100% natural, no plastics or microplastics – unlike conventional paints, which may account for up to 58% of microplastic pollution.

• Low VOC, using safe pigments (now zinc and titanium white instead of toxic lead)

• Breathable protection: it lets moisture out but won’t let it in—like Gore-Tex for your wood

• Long-lasting: traditional technique and plant-based oils let surfaces age gracefully—some woodwork painted with linseed oil in Europe has lasted over 500 years.

• Easily renewed: instead of scraping, just re-oil the surface—makes upkeep gentle and affordable.

• Mildew-fighting: formulas with zinc oxide add natural mold resistance.

What I recommend for my Courses in my Online Window Restoration Guide

I want to note that my courses are taught using the more common latex paint.  I created the videos and course several years ago when I had little exposure to linseed oil paint.  In my videos, I show why I prefer water-based latex paint over the modern synthetic oil paint (called “alkyd” oil paint); however, I did not discus or teach using linseed oil paint. 

If you take my courses, I still think that latex paints have their place, especially for the DIY preservationist.  The latex paints are admittedly very easy to us, and they have worked moderately well for me on the restoration of my house, even after the passage of 7 years.  For the users of my course, I think it’s your decision on what type of paint to use. But to show you as many options as possible, I’ve included this introduction to linseed oil and I hope it helps you make an informed choice.

If I were to restore another house today, I’d strongly consider linseed oil paint as I prefer the environmental footprint of linseed oil paint over plastic-based latex paint.  Also, I like how the linseed oil permeates the wood, and doesn’t just sit on top of it.  Additionally, I now know how to preserve my brushes so they don’t harden, thanks to helpful tips from Melanie.  This was one of my biggest frustrations using oil paint. 

(See this post for paint brush hacks: https://lowbudgetwindowrestoration.com/2025/06/how-to-keep-oil-based-paint-brushes-fresh-using-linseed-oil/).

Don’t be Scared of the Price

When I first heard about linseed oil paint, I was also concerned about the high price point.  And yes – a gallon of linseed oil paint will cost more than a gallon of latex paint or modern synthetic oil paint, especially cheaper paint from a big box hardware store.  However, linseed oil paint can still be an economical choice based on some factors below:

One primary consideration is greater coverage. Linseed oil paint typically covers more surface area per gallon than standard latex paint or synthetic oil paint.

Why?  Some reasons include:

• Highly pigmented and contains no fillers or plastic binders, so less paint is needed per coat.

• Applied in thinner layers—especially the first (priming) coat, which is usually diluted with raw or boiled linseed oil.

• Binds deeply into the wood, which reduces the need for multiple thick layers.

Coverage Comparison:

 

*Source for Linseed Oil Coverage: Brouns & Co. website (calculated over to imperial measurements from metric measurements)

So while one coat of latex paint usually covers around 250–350 square feet per gallon, linseed oil paint can stretch to 650-750 square feet per gallon—sometimes even more, depending on the surface. Because it’s made with natural pigments, no water, and no plastic fillers, it’s simply a more highly concentrated product.

Also, it goes further because linseed oil paint is applied in thin coats, and often the first coat is diluted with additional linseed oil to help it soak into the wood. The result? Less paint, better adhesion, and fewer thick layers clogging up the surface. Especially on previously painted or primed surfaces, you’ll find it covers beautifully with minimal product.

So while linseed oil paint may seem more expensive up front, it tends to cover more, last longer, and require less repainting—making it a smart investment for anyone restoring historic woodwork.

Finally, because linseed oil paint doesn’t contain any water like latex paints, everything in the can stays on the paints surface (not evaporated away like in water based latex).  That means a little goes a lot further than latex paints.  Generally, you can expect 2 to 2.5 times coverage for the same amount.  So while it may look more expensive by volume, you’re going to use far less.

That said, surface type and prep matters a lot. On raw wood, linseed oil paint soaks in more and may seem to cover less on the first coat. On primed or previously painted wood, the coverage is better and closer to the top end of the range.

I will try to produce a video that contains tips on painting with linseed oil and will include links at that time.

Where do you find Linseed Oil in the US?

In the US, we have currently five online distributors (one in Canada).  Earth + Flax and Brouns & Co. 

🔹 Earth + Flax

 

Earth + Flax curates and offers a wide range of Scandinavian-inspired, natural linseed oil products, from paints and purified oils to putty, waxes, and pine tar—all solvent-free and eco-conscious. Based in the U.S., they supply top-quality brands like Ottosson, Viking, and Allbäck, which utilize traditional triple-roller milling and zinc-enriched formulas to ensure durable, breathable finishes.  They offer in-depth product guides, application tips, and restoration-focused tools.  Their owner, Natalie, also offers several online videos related to Linseed Oil Paints and other historic restoration topics.  They also have a great instagram profile, covering their many projects in the Philadelphia region and beyond.

🔹 Brouns & Co.

Brouns & Co. has quickly been expanding its footprint in the US.  I’ve met their founder Michiel Brouns, a historic building conservation expert, and I was impressed with his dedication to Linseed Oil paints and his in-depth knowledge.  

Brouns & Co. was founded in 2011 by Michiel.  While he is originally from the Netherlands, he based Brouns & Co. in West Yorkshire, England, where flax for the paint is grown and pressed locally.  His efforts helped revive traditional linseed oil paint production in Yorkshire for the first time since the 19th century, using cold-pressed flaxseed oil and triple-roller milling to create around 40 historically accurate, plastic‑free colors. 

Since 2015, Brouns & Co. has seen rapid growth in North America—attracting projects like Mount Vernon—and opened a dedicated U.S. warehouse and distribution center in New Hampshire in late 2024, making it much easier for US consumers to access.

What I like about Brouns & Co. is that, besides offering high quality paint, they’ve worked to provide online resources about Linseed Oil paint that viewers can go to learn more about the paint and even learn how to apply the paint, etc.

• Videos from Brouns & Co.:  https://linseedoilpaint.com/videos/
• Courses on Demand: https://linseedoilpaint.com/courses/aia-course-on-demand/
• Answers to many frequently asked questions: https://linseedoilpaint.com/faqs/

Michiel also has a book on Linseed Oil Paint! If you’re serious about preserving history, Brouns’ Linseed Paint and Oil book is a must read—explaining paint chemistry, eco benefits, and real-world techniques.  You can find it here: mortiseandtenonmag.com.

🔹 Solvant Free Paint

Solvent-Free Paint is a U.S.-based supplier of Scandinavian-style linseed oil paints, putties, and finishes—all free from petrochemicals, plastics, and harmful solvents. They carry trusted brands like Ottosson and Allbäck, with traditional pigments and low VOCs ideal for historic restoration. Their shop also includes tools and accessories tailored for natural, long-lasting preservation work.

🔹 Heron Paint

Heron Paints offers handcrafted, solvent‑ and VOC‑free linseed oil paints made from purified American flax and traditional earth pigments. Their breathable, durable coatings resist cracking and peeling, and come in classic hues or custom matches. They also stock eco-friendly restoration essentials like metal primers, brushes, glazing putties, and cleaners.

Instructions on how to use their paint can be found here.

🔹 Sage Restoration (Canada)

Sage Restoration, based in Canada, supplies high-quality linseed oil paint and traditional wood finishing products with a focus on sustainability and historic accuracy. They offer a curated selection of linseed-based paints, primers, and glazing materials ideal for restoring old windows and woodwork. While U.S. customers may need to factor in international shipping and potential customs fees, Sage remains a great option for North American buyers seeking eco-friendly, period-appropriate finishes.

They also offer a wealth of information on linseed oil paints and other historic restoration topics.  Find that here.

Where do you find Linseed Oil in the EU?

If you’re based in the EU, here are some online resources for where to find linseed oil paint:

🔹 Brouns & Co. (UK)

• Based in: West Yorkshire, UK; Ships to: Most of Europe; Specialties: Historic color ranges, traditional triple-milled paint, linseed oil putty; Languages: English; Great for: Period homes, eco-conscious projects, restoration pros

🔹 Allbäck Linseed Paint (Sweden)

• Based in: Ystad, Sweden; Ships to: Worldwide; Specialties: Linseed oil paint, putty, wax, and glazing products; Languages: Swedish, English, and others; Great for: Traditional window restoration and toxin-free finishes

🔹 Ottosson Färgmakeri (Sweden)

• Based in: Genarp, Sweden; Ships to: EU and international; Specialties: Swedish-made linseed oil paints, tints, and primers; Languages: Swedish & English; Great for: Scandinavian wood exteriors and natural preservation.

• They also offer instructional videos here.

🔹 Kreidezeit Naturfarben (Germany)

• Based in: Dassel, Germany; Ships to: EU countries; Specialties: Natural finishes, including linseed oil paints and oils; Languages: German & English; Great for: Ecological builders and natural interior restoration

🔹 Linolie & Pigment (Denmark)

• Based in: Denmark; Ships to: Primarily Scandinavia, but can arrange broader EU shipping; Specialties: Pigments, raw linseed oil, and traditional linseed paint kits; Languages: Danish & some English; Great for: DIY paint mixing, small restoration projects

I hope this blog post gives you some additional information about linseed oil paint that is not only interesting, but useful to your decisions on using linseed oil paint as an alternative to the plastic-based modern paints such as latex and synthetic alkyd oil paints.

⚠️ Heads up on safety: Linseed oil–soaked rags, steel wool, or other waste can spontaneously combust if balled up or not disposed of properly. After use, toss them into a water-filled, sealed metal container to prevent fire risk or at least lay any rags out flat and do not ball them up. Also, avoid pouring leftover paint or wash water down the drain or into the yard, etc.—linseed oil can be harmful to aquatic life if released into the environment.