Solvents and thinners are usedfor thinning paints to a working consistency, diluting oil painting mediums,dissolving varnish resin crystals and waxes, cleaning paintings for the purposeof restoration, and general studio cleanup. They are called a solvent when usedto dissolve solids such as a varnish resin crystals, and a thinner when used todilute liquids such as painting mediums. Solvents such as turpentine andmineral spirits are naturally based products, whereas paint thinners are mostoften synthetic variations. It is best to use naturally based solvents andmediums with oil paints, and more economical synthetic thinners for generalstudio clean-up. All solvents and thinners should be used in a well-ventilatedarea, even if classified as "odourless".
Thinners and solvents areflammable products with low flash points. Therefore, they should be stored incool environments away from ignition sources. Dry chemical, carbon dioxide,foam and water fog are appropriate extinguishing media for most thinners and solvents.