Oil paint sticks can be used without a brush or if desired, spread or thinned with turpentine using a brush. Oil sticks are unique and an exciting divergence from traditional oil painting techniques. Shiva paints are tested in accordance to: ASTM D-4236 and bear safety labels to the standards issued by ACMI. While many Shiva colors are AP Approved non-toxic, certain colors do bear the CL label with safety warnings. ôMy first impression is of the luscious pigmentation of the Paintstiks®, and I love the thickness of the paint. I can create ridges and texture if I like, then with a quick swipe of a finger or brush, I can smooth it right out. ... Another thing I like about the sticks is that I am not wasting paint in the process. With the tube paints you have to put a big gob on the palette. It gets contaminated and it will dry out. There is almost no waste with the Paintstiks and waste is expensive. IÆve had enough encouragement to want to persevere.ö - Sue Chopper, an award winning artist and teacher ôI tried Shiva Paintstiks® thirteen years ago and have been using them almost exclusively since. They are convenient, durable and fast drying. And the colors are wonderful!ö - Diana Lyn C?té