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In this video, Melanie from Glaze Craft Windows walks through applying the first coat of linseed oil primer from Brouns & Co. to historic window sashes. It’s an easy way to restore historic window without using plastic-laden paints!

Why Thin Coats Matter

• Use a natural-bristle brush and apply the primer in very thin coats. That’s key—oxygen and UV light penetrate it better this way, helping it cure into a hard, durable finish.

• Despite looking watery—due to added balsam turpentine—a small can can cover over 25 sashes! Thin coats = big coverage.

• Because linseed oil paint doesn’t self-level, go back over the sash with your brush to smooth the coat out.

Melanie’s Process:

1. Dip the natural-bristle brush sparingly into primer.

2. Paint one ultra-thin coat—trust that your sash will absorb what it needs (it’ll look patchy, but that’s good—it’s feeding the wood like a stain).

3. Move the sash near a sunny window or outside—let oxygen and UV help cure the coat.  Give it several hours or more.

4. After curing, lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper before applying a second coat.

5. Melanie follows primer with 2–3 coats of linseed oil paint, brushing out each round for a smooth, polished finish.

Benefits of Linseed Oil Paint:

• Almost zero VOCs—safe to use inside a small room or workshop.

• A primer that feeds the wood, breathes, and cures hard over time.

• Far less product needed—one container goes a long way.

Links below to buy a can of Brouns & Co. Primer—the same one we’re using in the video.

📦 In the US, available here: https://linseedoilpaint.com/product-category/primers/

📦 In the EU, available here: https://linseedpaint.com/products/primers/

Pro tip: You can keep your brush soft and ready for the next day by storing it in linseed oil. Check out our earlier blog post on brush care for the how-to.