Which spatula is better for levigation and incorporation of ingredients: large or small?

• A. Large
• B. Small
• C. Medium
• D. Both

Answer: (A)

When performing levigation, you want to create a smooth paste by blending the powder with a vehicle. The utensil should be able to hold a substantial amount of material and allow you to spread and fold the vehicle through the powder efficiently. A large spatula has a wider blade, so it can scoop and move more material at once, spread the vehicle across a larger surface, and scrape the sides of the mortar or mixing surface effectively. This leads to quicker, more uniform incorporation of the vehicle and smoother levigation. A small spatula, while precise for tiny amounts, is slower and less practical for the bulk mixing required in levigation and incorporation.