Technology of applying pearlescent paint and how to make it yourself

Pearlescent paint is often used in interior decoration. After drying, such a coating provides the effect of flower transfusion and makes the color of the base more saturated. This is due to the peculiarities of the composition of pearlescent paint, which contains a pigment that refracts light. Therefore, the tint of the material changes depending on the viewing angle and the nature of the lighting.

Pearlescent paint: advantages and disadvantages

The characteristics of pearl paints are directly related to the type of binder.

However, for each of these compositions, the following characteristics are inherent:

1. Versatility. These materials are used to paint various surfaces, including those that are exposed to increased stress.
2. Respect the environment. This characteristic is not characteristic of pearlescent alkyd compositions. At the same time, the pigment providing such an effect does not have a harmful effect on the human body.
3. Dries quickly and does not give off an unpleasant odor. These two characteristics are due to the fact that these paints are mainly water-based.
4. Increased adhesion. Thanks to this property, the paint is able to adhere to different surfaces, creating a durable coating.
5. Long life expectancy. The pearlescent coating will not fade or crack over time. This material is able to withstand regular washing, including with the help of household chemicals.

The powder that gives the pearlescent effect is mostly mixed with acrylic or other water-based dyes. In this case, the concentration of the first substance determines the degree of refraction of light by the coating.

As with the advantages, the list of disadvantages depends on the type of binder or base. Pearlescent dyes are characterized by the following characteristics:

• overload;
• it is necessary to strictly follow the rules of application;
• mandatory preparation of the working surface is required.

These pigments are available in pearl, gold or silver colors. However, if necessary, this composition can be tinted with other materials, thereby obtaining the desired shade.

Apps

The scope of application of the dye also directly depends on the characteristics of the base. In particular, depending on the type of components, this composition can be used to treat:

• walls, ceiling and floor;
• furniture;
• bodies and other surfaces.

In combination with acrylic, pearl powder can be used when painting. In addition, this material is applied to an already painted surface. The composition, due to increased adhesion, is able to deposit on water, oil and alkyd coatings.

How to match with different finishes

Pearl paints can be combined with a variety of finishes, including:

• TREE;
• glass;
• drywall;
• concrete;
• Fibreboard and others.

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But when applying it to a surface, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the material.In particular, when processing metal, it is recommended to mix the powder with compounds that provide anti-corrosion protection. For wood, materials that prevent rotting and the formation of mold are suitable.

When using pearlescent dyes, the following feature should be taken into account: golden colors are not used outdoors. Such coatings do not tolerate direct sunlight (fading).

Pigment Selection Criteria

Pearl pigments are available in three types:

1. Powder. This option is considered the most optimal. The powder can be used mixed with different bases (but recommended with acrylics) to achieve the desired shade. However, it is not recommended to use this composition with water-based enamel. In this case, the probability of lump formation is high.
2. Dough. It is mainly used when mixed with acrylic glazes. This allows you to get the finishing material in a wide range of colors. When mixed, the paste gives a homogeneous liquid mass. But, compared to the powder, this composition has a short shelf life.
3. Enamel finished. This material is convenient for beginners, since it is not necessary to carry out additional activities to decorate the premises. It is enough to apply the composition to the prepared surface.

Acrylic paints, combined with a paste or powder, after drying, create a durable surface layer. But if it is necessary to achieve a pearlescent effect on structures located in the open air, it is recommended to take a silver pigment. This material is very resistant to sun and weather.

Main Manufacturers

Among the popular pearlescent paints, the following products stand out:

1. Festival. This painting material is used for interior work or for decorating interior items. After drying, the material creates a durable coating that can withstand constant washing.
2. Tikkurila Taika. Acrylate-based water-repellent paint available in seven different shades.
3. Premiato velvet. The dye creates a velvety finish on the surface with transitions from gloss to matte. The material is used for processing concrete or drywall.
4. White House enigma. Acrylic stain used for interior work. The created coating is able to pass steam.
5. Alpina effect crystal. The material is available in a wide range of shades.
6. Teknos Kolibi. The material is characterized by increased resistance to moisture, but it is used for painting surfaces in dry rooms. This composition is distinguished by the fact that the product can be used when processing an unprepared base.
7. "Solo". Products of this brand are produced for painting walls indoors. Compared to other formulations, this paint dries quickly (within half an hour).
8. "Westa". Affordable paint materials that, after drying, are resistant to wet cleaning.

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The above dyes already contain a pearlescent powder.

How to do

To make paint with a pearl shine with your own hands, you need to purchase the appropriate powder (paste). You will also need gum arabic (water based recommended). After that, these components should be mixed in a separate container.

First, add 3-5 parts powder and 1 part gum arabic.The specified proportion must be strictly observed, otherwise the finished material will not acquire the required properties. When mixing these components, it is necessary to obtain a thick mass of uniform color. After that, this composition can be applied to the prepared surface. Pure water is used to adjust the consistency of the finishing material.

Painting technology

The type of tool used for painting, like the technology of applying paint materials, depends on the characteristics of the composition.

Choose an application tool

Pearlescent dyes are applied to surfaces using:

1. Sponges. With this "tool" you can create patterns, ornaments or designs on the worktop. The sponge is mainly used for decorating furniture or walls. Other tools are used to completely paint the surfaces. The sponge should be wrung out after each dip in the mixture. Depending on the task, the material is applied in a circular motion or by pressing the foam rubber.
2. Brushes. This tool is also used mainly for surface decoration. To get an original pattern, it is recommended to use 2 round brushes at once, painted in different tones.
3. Spray gun. This tool is used for painting large areas. The spray gun is able to apply the material in an even coat, thus speeding up the job. When using this staining technique, the mixture should be diluted to a more liquid consistency.
4. Roll. This tool is used to paint flat surfaces. Depending on the type of roller hair, you can create non-standard patterns on the basis of. It is recommended to apply the paint by roller in 2 coats.
5. Brushes. The tool is used to paint hard to reach areas or joints.For surface treatment, a brush with soft bristles is used, if you need to create a drawing, then with a synthetic.

If the pigment powder is mixed with plaster, then this mass should be applied with a spatula, making wave-like movements. Methods of surface treatment with pearlescent paint are also determined depending on the characteristics of the chosen composition.

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How to register

Before applying the paint, the surface must be cleaned of dirt and dust. After that, the base is degreased with alcohol or another solvent. It is recommended to apply a primer afterwards. Some paint types allow you to skip the last step. But to increase adhesion and protect the material from external influences, it is recommended to prime the surface in each case.

At the end of the preparation of the base, you can start painting. To create a pearlescent glow, you will need:

1. Apply the base stain in 2 coats on the surface. In this case, it is recommended to take compositions dispersed in water with a color as close as possible to the shade of the decorative material.
2. Wait 6-8 hours. During this time, the base coat will dry completely.
3. Apply pearlescent composition. In this case, it is recommended to take a paint that differs in shade from the base coat.
4. Apply a second coat of pearl. In this case, you can use a roller or a brush to create a decorative pattern. Each layer is applied after the previous one has completely dried (the process takes up to 40 minutes).

When painting large areas, it is recommended to take weakly concentrated dyes.This is due to the fact that in this case the main role in decorating a room is assigned to color. The pearlescent effect only enhances the attractiveness of the surface.

Highly concentrated dyes are used for finishing small areas or to highlight individual areas.

Creating effects

Pearlescent compositions, through the use of certain techniques, make it possible to create different effects on the surface.

Chameleon

To create this effect, you will need a special pigment, thanks to which, depending on the viewing angle, the color of the coating changes. This composition is also recommended for the treatment of irregular surfaces. Apply chameleon effect pigment using an airbrush or spray gun.

pink pearl

Mother of pearl in combination with a pearl pink color scheme can make the interior more romantic. This paint is combined with a gray, blue or white coating. In this case, a roller or sponge is also used to create a certain pattern on the surface.

white pearls

The pearlescent color scheme gives the interior a solid and luxurious look. In addition, if this paint material is used when processing large areas, the room will become "cold". Therefore, shades of white and pink pearls are recommended for decorating individual areas or compact designs.