Can I Use Tempera Paint on Wood?

By Staff WriterLast Updated April 12, 2020

Tempera paint works well on wood as well as on papier mâché, cardboard, paper or glass. When mixed with egg yolk, tempera paint becomes even thicker and glossier and applies well to wood.

Tempera paint is a fast-drying paint made from pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder that often includes egg yolk. Tempera paintings were first seen in the first century. It was the primary type of paint used until the 16th century, when oil painting predominated. Tempera paint sold for crafts in the United States as of 2014 uses different types of binders than those used in earlier centuries.