The shelf life of Schmincke artists' colours

Here at Schmincke, we are often asked how long our artists’ colours are stable. This question isn’t always easy to answer, because the shelf life of the different types of artists’ colours can vary, depending on the material as well as on outside factors. From descendant’s estates, we often receive artists’ colours that are decades old. They are analysed and tested in our laboratory, and it is often amazing how suitable for use the colours still are after such a long time.

To give you a point of reference, we have listed the various prospective shelf lives, which can be significantly extended if stored properly. The following overview gives you a basic idea of the necessary conditions for the ideal storage of Schmincke artists’ colours, what must be observed and the respective approximate shelf life. All products have a production number, which make it possible to ascertain the production date.  

Pastels

The shelf life of pastels is unlimited when stored in a dry place, because they are basically made of pure pigment. Pastels have the longest shelf life of all artists’ colours.  

Resin oil colours or oil colours

MUSSIN^®, Norma^® Professional, AKADEMIE^® Oil colour.

Oil colours also have a very long shelf life due to their oil/resin content. It is important – as with every tube of colour – that the tubes are sealed airtight and undamaged. After many years, it is possible that the drying time of the oil colours will have increased. 

Water colours and Gouache colours in tubes

HORADAM^® AQUARELL and HORADAM^® GOUACHE, HKS^® Designers‘ Gouache, Calligraphy Gouache and AKADEMIE^® Gouache

The shelf life of colour tubes such as water colours and gouache, or water-based colours, is shorter. We indicate the prospective shelf life to be 5 years. The colours are often still useable after a much longer time. Gouache and water colour tubes that have dried out can also be dissolved in water repeatedly and used.  

Water colours in pans

HORADAM^® AQUARELL and AKADEMIE^® Aquarell

In pans, the shelf life of water colour is nearly unlimited if stored properly. No water may remain in the pan and the case should not be closed until the paint is dry. Dry storage at normal room temperature is also recommended.

Acrylic colours

PRIMAcryl^®, AKADEMIE^® Acryl color, College^® and AERO COLOR^® Professional

Because they are water-based, the shelf life of acrylic colours is also limited to approximately five years, and they are the most dependent on airtight, room temperature storage. Acrylic colours that have dried out are no longer useable. Therefore: the more care you apply in handling your materials, the longer you will be able to enjoy them! Please ensure proper storage temperatures (frost-free, but not too warm), and normal humidity at all times, and mind for well closed and undamaged tubes.