Store-bought paint is expensive. It is also limited. You can make a brighter spectrum of colors for half the cost if you know the trick. The secret lies in powder paint. You can find it in hobby shops or the art supply aisle. It is cheap. It is potent. And it lets you mix exactly what you need.
The Basic Recipe
You need four small jars with lids. You need a small saucepan. You need measuring spoons and a mixing spoon. For ingredients, grab water, flour, powder paint, clear liquid detergent, and liquid laundry starch. This recipe yields four small jars of custom poster paint.
Start with the colors. Buy a variety of powder paints. Stick to the basics: red, yellow, blue, and white. Mix from there. Whatever you like, you can make.
Making the Base Paste
In a small saucepan, slowly add 1 cup of water to 1/4 cup of flour. Stir constantly. Do not stop stirring. Cook over medium heat. Wait until the paste begins to thicken. Remove it from the heat. Let it cool.
Mixing the Colors
Use a small jar with a cover for each color you want. Measure 1/4 cup of the cooled paste into each jar. Add 2 tablespoons of water. Add 3 tablespoons of your chosen powder paint color. Mix well.
If the mixture looks too dry, add water. Add it 1/2 teaspoon at a time. Stir well after each addition.
“For a glossy finish, add detergent. For an opaque finish, add starch.”
Do you want a glossy finish? Add 1/2 teaspoon of clear liquid detergent to each jar. Do you want an opaque finish? Add 1/2 teaspoon of liquid laundry starch. Cover the jars tightly. Stir before each use.
Quick Detergent Paints
Need paint now? You can make instant poster paints. Mix 2 teaspoons of powder paint with 1 tablespoon of clear liquid detergent for each color desired. Stir well. It is fast. It is easy.
What to Do With Your Paint
You can use this poster paint for all kinds of projects. Try decorating a piñata you make yourself. It works well on paper. It works well on wood. It works well on fabric. The colors are bright. The cost is low.
More DIY Ideas
If you like making things yourself, here are a few other projects:
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There is always another project waiting. Another color to mix. Another surface to cover. The paint is in your hands.
