Egg Tempera Recipe and How to Use it?

Egg tempera is a traditional painting medium that was widely used during the Byzantine and Renaissance periods. Here's how you can make and use egg tempera:

Materials:

• Raw eggs
• White vinegar
• Pigment powders
• Honey (optional)
• Mixing bowls and brushes
• Primed painting surface (wood, gessoed paper, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Separate the yolks from the whites of the eggs. Reserve the whites for another use.
2. Beat the yolks lightly with a fork in a clean mixing bowl.
3. Add a drop or two of white vinegar to the beaten yolks. This will help to preserve the tempera and prevent spoilage.
4. Slowly add pigment powder to the yolks, mixing well to make a smooth paint. If the paint is too thick, you can add a few drops of water to thin it out.
5. Optional: You can add a small amount of honey to the paint to improve its workability and reduce cracking.
6. Your egg tempera is now ready to use! Store it in a covered container in the refrigerator and use it within a few days.

To use egg tempera, simply apply it to your primed painting surface using a brush. The paint dries quickly, so you'll need to work quickly to avoid visible brush strokes. Since egg tempera dries to a matte finish, you may want to apply a final varnish to protect the paint and add a glossy finish, if desired.

Keep in mind that egg tempera is a very delicate medium, so it's important to handle it with care and store it properly to ensure its longevity.