Iridescent / Metallic Colors

Definition

  • Iridescent paints are also known as "metallic" paints that do not tarnish. They mimic the effect of bronzing powders. Many bronzing powders cannot be used with acrylic emulsions as they tarnish due to the alkalinity of the binder.
  • Liquitex Iridescent Colors produce a variety of non-tarnishing iridescent or metallic effects.
  • Made from titanium coated mica flakes with an outer layer of a transparent light absorbing colorant, rather than traditional pigments.
  • Light Absorbing colorant layers determine the observed color.
  • Iridescent pigments are "optically opaque" and they rely on reflected light only for their effect. No Interference "flip" color is observed.

Application

  • They can be used alone or mixed with other Liquitex Colors and Mediums for a variety of iridescent, metallic effects.
  • Transparent and translucent colors provide the best results for mixing.
  • Mix with small amounts of Liquitex Acrylic Colors for variety of "metallic" colors, i.e. copper with green = antique copper.
  • Mix with Liquitex Soft Body Mediums for "metallic" glazes.
  • Mix with Liquitex Texture Gel Mediums for "metallic" textures.
  • Iridescent White is added to other color to attain pearlescent qualities.

Available Sizes

  • Heavy Body 2 oz. tubes, Soft Body 2 oz. jars, Basics 4 oz. tubes and 8 oz. jars, and Basics Matt 75ml and 200ml tubes.

Characteristics of High Quality Acrylic Paints

  • Water soluble colors while wet.
  • Flexible colors when dry. Built-up surfaces will remain free of cracks and chips. Less flexible in cold weather. Softer in warm weather.
  • Air-dry by evaporation. Thin paint films: 10 - 20 minutes. Thick paint films: 1 hour - 3 days.
  • Surface of a dry acrylic painting can be cleaned by gently washing with soap and water.
  • Keep brushes wet. Clean up brushes, hands and palette with soap and water.
  • Little odor, no fumes, nonflammable. Uses non-toxic thinners and mediums.
  • Do not mix with turpentine or oils. Mix only with other acrylic emulsion paints or mediums.

Cleanup of Acrylic Paints

  • From hands: Wet or dried acrylic paint cleans with soap and water.
  • From brushes: Clean wet brushes with soap & water. Clean dried acrylic brushes with acetone, denatured alcohol or equivalent product. These cleaning solutions are toxic. Care should be taken during use.
  • From clothing: While paint is wet, clean with water and/or window cleaner. Dried acrylic paint is permanent on fabric.
  • From painting surface: While paint is wet, wipe with damp rag, clean with water. When paint is dry, simply paint over surface with desired colors and motif.

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