Help with Pearl Ex Powders

Hello Dragoncastle

I am new to useing Pearl ex powders aswell, but from what I can tell… and have learned they can be mixed with any media to give the paint a metallic look.
and I have tried them in an airbrush with no problems. 🙂

If you want to brush them directly on to your PYO, I suggest you use something to make the statue slightly tacky. That way the power will adhere and won’t just blow off or rub off if you touch it. I have used Testors Spray Lacquer but I’ve actually found a cheap solution to be hairspray.

Pearl Ex powders are fun! You can use Pearl Ex powders several ways.

1) I’ve mixed them into paints. Just put a little bit on the side of your palette. Depending on the color effect you want, a little can really be all you need. 🙂

2) I’ve mixed them with a clear medium, as mentioned by Dragon87. Golden puts out several (gloss, matte, etc.).

3) I’ve brushed them on with a brush dry. Yes, it gets all over, so I like to do it outside or in the basement if I’m doing a large area, or at least put something down on the table. Just make sure you don’t have a fan blowing or any strong wind! I don’t spray anything to make it tacky. For this method, you need to spray a thin layer of sealant between each layer (ie. brush on pearl ex powders, spray thin layer of sealant, repeat for desired effect and color). Depending on the color, it may take a few coats before you start to really see the color fill in. Some pick up much more readily. I found the copper or pearl white colors, for example, pick up quickly, while a lighter gold shade of pearl ex might not pick up right away and may require a few more layers to get the full color depth you are looking for. Time consuming, but the effects can be quite nice. It’s the same method you’d use if you were ‘painting’ with chalk pastels. Example: The scales of this kirin are done in nothing but Pearl Ex powders, no base coat. Only the fur is painted. I used four different shades of pearl ex were used on the scales.