How to Make Navy Paint
Navy paint is a popular shade of blue used in many different applications, from paint for walls and furniture to makeup and fabric dyeing. While it’s relatively easy to purchase navy paint at a store, making your own custom color can be a fun and rewarding project. In this article, we’ll explore how to make navy paint and provide guidance on the process.
Choosing the Right Pigments
The first step in making navy paint is selecting the right pigments to achieve the desired color. Navy paint is typically characterized by its dark, deep blue color. To get this color, you’ll need to choose pigments that have a high density of blue colorant and a low level of hiding power.
Key Pigments to Look for:
• Ultramarine Blue: This is the main pigment used to create the blue color of navy. Ultramarine blue has a high concentration of lapis lazuli and is responsible for much of the pigment’s unique color.
• Pthalocyanine Green: This pigment is typically used in combination with Ultramarine blue to darken the color and create the navy shade. Pthalocyanine green is also responsible for giving the pigment its rich, deep undertones.
• Carbon Black: A small amount of carbon black can help to deepen the color of the navy and create the illusion of darkness.
Here is a sample pigment selection table:
| Pigment | Percentage of Total Amount |
|---|---|
| Ultramarine Blue | 60% |
| Pthalocyanine Green | 30% |
| Carbon Black | 10% |
Making the Paint
Once you have the pigments you need, it’s time to combine them to create the final paint. To make your navy paint, you will need:
Materials Needed:
• 1 cup of binder (such as glycerol or linseed oil): This will hold the pigment particles together and give them their paint-like consistency.
• 2 tablespoons of pigment mixture: Combine your selected pigments in this amount.
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of solvent (such as turpentine or odorless mineral spirits): You can add a small amount of solvent to thin out the paint and make it easier to work with.
