How to Make Metallic Oil Paint

Are you tired of the same old boring colors on your canvas? Have you ever wondered how to achieve a stunning metallic finish in your oil paintings?

Metallic oil paint may seem like it’s reserved for professional artists, but with the right technique and materials, anyone can create their own shimmering masterpiece. Not only does metallic oil paint add a unique depth and texture to your work, but it also allows for endless creativity and experimentation.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of metallic oil paint and explore the step-by-step process for making your own at home. From choosing the right pigments to mixing your own medium, we’ll guide you through every aspect of creating a beautiful metallic finish that will make your artwork stand out. So grab your paintbrushes and let’s get started!

Materials needed to make metallic oil paint

Making metallic oil paint requires specific materials that differ from the ones used to make regular oil paints. The following are the essential materials you will need:

Metallic pigment:

The pigment is what gives the paint its color and finishes. There are different types of metallic pigments, including aluminum, copper, bronze, and gold. These pigments come in powder form and can be purchased from art supply stores.

Linseed oil:

Linseed oil serves as a binder for the pigments. You can use either refined or unrefined linseed oil depending on your preference.

Drying agent:

A drying agent is added to the mixture to speed up the drying process of the paint. Common drying agents include cobalt drier, Japan drier, and manganese drier.

Palette knife:

The palette knife is used to mix the ingredients together thoroughly.

Clean containers:

You will need clean containers to mix your ingredients in. Glass jars or metal tins with lids work well for this purpose.

Tips:

• When purchasing your metallic pigment, choose a reputable brand that has good reviews.
• Use separate containers for each pigment color you want to create.
• Use a glass palette instead of a wooden one because it is easier to clean off any remaining paint residue.

Preparing the surface for painting with metallic oil paint

Cleanliness is key

Before applying metallic oil paint to any surface, it’s essential to ensure that the surface is clean and free of any debris, dust or dirt. You can do this by using a soft cloth or brush to remove any visible debris. Additionally, you may need to use soap and water or a mild detergent solution to remove stubborn stains.

Priming the surface

Once the surface is clean, you’ll need to prime it before painting. Priming helps create an even base for your metallic oil paint and enhances its durability. You can use either a clear primer or one that matches your paint color. Apply the primer evenly on the surface with a brush or roller, then allow it to dry completely before painting.

Choosing the right surface

Metallic oil paints work best on surfaces with texture, such as canvas or paper. However, they can also be applied on smooth surfaces like metal or glass if properly primed. When choosing a surface, consider its absorption level as well. Surfaces that absorb too much paint will result in dull colors and vice versa.

Mixing metallic pigments into oil paint: The process

Selecting metallic pigments

The first step in mixing metallic pigments into oil paint is selecting the right pigment. There are many types of metallic pigments available in art supply stores; choose one that suits your purpose and desired effect.

Adding pigments to oil paint

Once you’ve chosen your pigment, add it gradually to your oil paint while stirring continuously until you reach your desired color intensity. Remember not to add too much pigment as this may affect the consistency of your mixed paint.

Tips:

• Use a palette knife to mix your paint as it provides better control and helps you achieve a smoother consistency.
• If you need to thin your mixed paint, use a small amount of turpentine or linseed oil.

Adjusting the consistency of your metallic oil paint

Thinning metallic oil paint

If your metallic oil paint is too thick, you can add a small amount of turpentine or linseed oil to thin it. Start with just a few drops and mix well before adding more.

Thickening metallic oil paint

To thicken your metallic oil paint, you can add more pigment or use a thicker medium like stand oil. Remember not to add too much pigment as this may affect the color intensity of your mixed paint.

Tips:

• Always test the consistency of your mixed paint on a separate surface before applying it to your painting.
• If you’re unsure about how much thinner or thicker to use, start with small amounts and gradually increase until you reach the desired consistency.

Techniques for applying metallic oil paint to a canvas or surface

Dry brushing technique

Dry brushing involves using very little paint on your brush and creating light strokes over the surface. This technique creates subtle highlights that can enhance texture and depth in your painting.

Gilding technique

Gilding is an ancient technique that involves applying gold leaf or gold powder onto the painted surface using adhesive or varnish. This technique adds richness and depth to any painting.

Tips:

• Experiment with different brushes and brushstrokes to create unique textures and effects in your painting.
• Use a light hand when applying metallic oil paint as it can easily overpower other colors and details in your painting.

Drying and curing time for metallic oil paint

Drying time

Metallic oil paints take longer to dry than regular oil paints due to their thicker consistency. The drying time can range from several days to a few weeks depending on the thickness of the paint layer.

Curing time

Curing is the process of hardening the paint layer, allowing it to be varnished or framed without smudging or sticking. Metallic oil paints typically take up to six months to cure completely.

Tips:

• Allow your painting to dry completely before applying another layer of metallic oil paint or varnish.
• Avoid touching or moving your painting until it’s fully cured.

Mixing metallic oil paint with other types of paints or mediums

Mixing with acrylics

You can mix metallic oil paints with acrylics, but you need to ensure that you apply the acrylic layer first and allow it to dry fully before adding the metallic layer.

Mixing with watercolors

It’s not recommended to mix metallic oil paints with watercolors as they have different properties and may not blend well together.

Tips:

• Always test any mixed medium on a separate surface before applying it to your painting.
• Clean your brushes thoroughly after using different types of paint or mediums.

Cleaning and storing your metallic oil paints and tools properly

Cleaning brushes and tools

Clean your brushes and tools thoroughly after each use to prevent paint buildup and damage to the bristles. Use a solvent like turpentine or mineral spirits for cleaning metallic oil paints.

Storing metallic oil paints

Store your metallic oil paints in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ensure that the lids are tightly sealed to prevent air exposure and drying out of the paint.

Tips:

• Use separate brushes for different types of paint or mediums.
• If you’re not going to use your metallic oil paint for an extended period, cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing it with the lid.

In conclusion, making metallic oil paint is a simple and straightforward process that requires the right materials and some patience. With this guide, you can create your own metallic oil paints to add a unique touch to your artwork.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make Metallic Oil Paint

What can I add to paint to make it metallic?
The techniques used to create metallic and pearlescent coatings involve mixing different colored micas, adding dry pigment powder to pearl white mica, or tinting a colored mica with universal tints or pigment dispersions. These methods are used to achieve the desired effect.

How do I turn regular paint into metallic paint?
Mixing silver with it will give it a shimmer effect, but it only slightly dulls it. I am applying the mixture with a brush and it lightens and dulls the color subtly.

How is metallic paint made?
Polychromatic paint or metallic paint contains small metal particles like aluminium that reflect light, creating a shiny and deep effect on the surface, especially noticeable on the curves of the bodywork.

How do you make metallic gold oil paint?
To create warm mid-tones in a painting, you can mix burnt sienna, cadmium red, and white. For cool mid-tones, mix burnt umber, ultramarine, and white. To create warm dark tones, use burnt sienna and ultramarine, and add a touch of cadmium yellow for a yellowish hue. These color combinations can be used to create different effects in a painting.

Can you add mica powder to paint?
To add sparkle to your painting project, use mica powder. Apply the powder to oil or acrylic paint while it is still wet, and then remove any excess powder with a gentle brush. Our metallic mica powders are perfect for adding shimmer to your artwork.

How do you make art look metallic?
To make a surface look more metallic, increase the contrast between light and dark on adjacent surfaces. To create reflections, add a slight shadow to the surface. You can also add color to show the reflection of colors from nearby objects.