Ventilation for workspace

 

David,
I have been painting for about 3 years, not in well ventilated area. I do not buy really expensive paints (2 to 5$) I was wondering if they can still make me sick. I really get headaches and just don’t feel well when I am painting. My daughter brought it to my attention yesterday when I was showing her some work in my office and she said the smell was so strong. I would like you to let me know.
Thanks, Bonnie

Hi Bonnie,

Cheap paints can make you just as sick as expensive paints. Probably more so since there are more fillers and additives. All types of paints give off vapors from chemicals and volatile solvents, some types more than others.
What type of paints are you using? Oils, acrylics...
Some artists have exhaust fans installed in front of their work area or easel to pull out the vapors. You can also use a fan in the window to do the same thing.
David

I use a mix of Neon(apple Barrel) Metallic (Anta's) and of course the Acrylic’s of Academy and Liquitex (Basics). I work on canvas and work in a 12x12 or so room. I know when I use the Neon it is really strong vapors. I will just have to start using a fan, or something. I thank you very much for answering my question.
Bonnie

Try painting with only one of your paints, like the Neon, for a day or two and see how you feel. You will likely feel better with some than others. Get rid of the ones that don’t make you feel good. Smell is a good indicator, good paints don’t smell strong and few people complain about ill effects when working with them.