Folkart Color Shift Paint

Discover the magical world of color-shifting paints!

Folkart Color Shift Paint has taken the arts and crafts world by storm! This unique acrylic paint changes color when viewed from different angles. With its eye-catching effects, Folkart Color Shift Paint opens up new possibilities for all kinds of creative projects.

But before you grab these color-morphing paints, it’s important to understand what they are, where to get them, and how to use them properly. This complete buying guide covers everything you need to know about Folkart Color Shift Paint – from selecting the right colors to cleaning up afterwards.

So get ready to unleash your inner artist! Let’s dive into the magical world of color-shifting paints.

An Introduction to Folkart Color Shift Paint

Folkart Color Shift Paint is a specialized acrylic paint that exhibits a drastic color change when viewed from different angles. It’s often described as a color-shifting, color-morphing, or dual-tone paint.

The unique composition of the paint causes light waves to reflect and refract differently based on the viewing angle. So the color you see will transform as you move around a painted surface. This creates stunning effects that appear to shift between two colors.

This versatile paint can be used on a wide variety of porous and non-porous surfaces including:

• Canvas
• Wood
• Fabric
• Paper
• Glass
• Ceramics
• Plastic
• Metal

The color shifts are vibrant and dramatic. A blue paint may turn vivid purple. Gold transforms into a bold green. Neutral grays give way to bright pinks. The color combinations are endless!

Folkart Color Shift Paints are water-based, low-odor, and non-toxic. They apply smoothly with a brush or sponge. The finish is opaque and dries to a satiny sheen.

With this introduction to the basics, let’s move on to the details of buying and using these magical morphing paints.

Where to Buy Folkart Color Shift Paint

Folkart Color Shift Paint is exclusively manufactured by Plaid Enterprises. So authentic color shift paints all come from the Folkart brand.

There are a few places you can buy them:

• Craft stores – Check the paint aisles at stores like Michael’s, Hobby Lobby, and Joann Fabrics. Folkart Color Shift is usually stocked alongside regular Folkart acrylics.
• Online – Buy directly from Plaid’s website or from online retailers like Amazon and Walmart. This may give you access to the largest color selection.
• Art supply stores – Some local specialty art stores carry Folkart products. Call ahead to check availability.

When shopping in person or online, look for the distinctive Folkart branding on the label. Be wary of generic “color shift” paints which may not give the same stunning effects.

Folkart Color Shift Paint comes in 1 fluid ounce bottles – a little goes a long way. Expect to pay around $4 to $6 per bottle. Sales and multi-packs can offer savings.

Now let’s explore all the things you can do with these magical morphing paints!

Creative Uses for Folkart Color Shift Paint

The color-morphing properties make Folkart Color Shift Paint perfect for:

• Home decor pieces – Paint a tabletop, jewelry tray, vase, or wall art to add mesmerizing color effects to any room.
• Canvas art – Color shift paints are ideal for abstract acrylic pouring on canvas. The morphing hues create captivating textures and patterns.
• Craft projects – Add pops of color-changing paint to birdhouses, flowerpots, boxes, frames, and any other craft.
• Fabric painting – Transform clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories with a shimmering color shift design.
• Faux finishes – Use these paints when creating faux marble, wood grain, patina, and other faux finishes. The color shifts enhance the realistic effects.
• Homemade gifts – Make one-of-a-kind gifts like mugs, jewelry, photo frames, and keepsake boxes with color shift accents.
• Kids’ projects – Folkart Color Shift is perfect for painting toys, school projects, arts and crafts. It’s non-toxic and safe for kids.

The possibilities are endless! Folkart Color Shift Paint can add visual interest and interactive effects to all types of arts, crafts, and DIY projects.

Tips for Applying Folkart Color Shift Paint

Painting with these color-shifting paints is very similar to using regular acrylics. But here are some tips to get the best results:

• Stir well – Make sure to thoroughly mix the paint before applying. Settling may occur in the bottle.
• Use a brush or sponge – Apply an even coat using a soft brush, foam brush, or makeup sponge.
• Thin if needed – Add a bit of water if the paint needs to be thinned for smooth application.
• Paint in thin layers – Color shifting effects work best when applied in thin, translucent layers. Allow each layer to fully dry between coats.
• Seal when finished – Seal your finished piece with a clear acrylic sealer for added protection and to enhance the color shifts.

Proper thinning and layering is key for getting clean, vibrant color changes in your finished piece. Take your time applying smooth coats. The payoff is worth it!

How Folkart Color Shift Paint Works

So how do these paints create such drastic color changes?

It all comes down to the unique pigments used to create the paint. The pigments contain interference and iridescent particles.

When light hits the painted surface, these particles cause the light waves to reflect and refract in different ways based on the viewing angle.

At one angle, you may see more of the reflected color. Tilt the surface, and more of the refracted color is visible.

This trick of the light results in the paint seemingly changing between two distinct colors as you move around the object.

The Folkart brand has perfected the recipe to maximize this color shift. Other brands often can’t achieve the same level of pigmentation and dramatic morphing effects.

Finding the Right Folkart Color Shift Colors

One of the fun parts of painting with this product is choosing from the variety of color shift options.

Folkart currently makes these dual-tone color shift paints:

• Blue Flash – Shifts between rich blue and shimmering gold.
• Green Flash – Transforms from bright green to coppery gold.
• Mermaid Tail – Morphs from teal to violet.
• Peacock Feather – Changes from turquoise to fuchsia pink.
• Purple Flash – Alternates between purple and gold tones.
• Sunrise Sunset – Shifts from warm orange to cooled pink.
• Twilight – Transitions from neutral gray to a flash of bright pink.
• Unicorn Magic – Cycles through silver, pink, and purple.
• Winter Sky – Converts from icy blue to silver.

There are also a few multi-color sampler sets available. This lets you try several shades to determine your favorites.

Look for colors that complement the project you have in mind. Contrasting color shifts tend to be most dramatic. Don’t be afraid to experiment with mixing colors too!

Handling and Care of Folkart Color Shift Paint

Acrylic paints in general are pretty forgiving and easy to care for. Here are some tips for handling Folkart Color Shift Paint:

• Store properly – Keep unused paint in an airtight container at room temperature away from direct light. Refrigeration can extend the shelf life once opened.
• Don’t freeze – Avoid freezing the paint – this can negatively impact the pigment particles and cause permanent changes.
• Clean tools – Wash brushes and tools with soap and water after use. Acrylic dries quickly so don’t let it sit.
• Seal when dry – Apply a clear acrylic sealer once the paint is fully dry for added protection and to enhance the color shifts.
• Keep cool when drying – Avoid excess heat when drying to prevent cracking or bubbling of the paint.
• Handle with care – Like any paint, avoid rough handling that could smudge or ding the finished piece. The color shift effect scratches off if rubbed aggressively.

With basic care and protection, Folkart Color Shift Paint will provide stunning, lasting results in your finished pieces.

Using Folkart Color Shift Paint on Different Surfaces

One of the great things about Folkart Color Shift Acrylic Paint is its versatility on many surface types, both porous and non-porous. Here is how to use it on different materials:

• Canvas – Prime with gesso first for an ideal painting surface. The texture adds interest.
• Wood – Unfinished, untreated wood accepts the paint well. Avoid heavily sealed, laminated, or varnished wood.
• Glass – Clean thoroughly and apply directly to the glass. Can create a stained glass effect.
• Metal – Paint works on raw metals like tin, aluminum, and copper. Avoid rusted or clear coated metals.
• Plastic – Adheres to clean, unfinished plastics like craft beads, figurines, and cases. Won’t bond well with polished plastics.
• Fabric – Works on natural fabrics like cotton, canvas, burlap, linen. Not advised for delicate fabrics; test first.
• Paper – Color right over construction, scrapbooking, and watercolor papers. Best results on thicker paper stocks.
• Pottery – Excellent for terra cotta, stoneware, and unfinished ceramics. Don’t use on restaurant-grade glazed pieces.

Proper surface prep is key. Clean, lightly roughen, and remove any coatings from materials before painting. The color shifts really stand out against dark base colors.

FAQs About Folkart Color Shift Paint

Let’s answer some commonly asked questions about these magical morphing paints:

Do you have to seal Folkart Color Shift Paint?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to seal the finished piece with a clear acrylic sealer. This helps protect the surface and enhances the color shifting effect.

How long does it take Folkart Color Shift Paint to dry?

The drying time is similar to regular acrylics – usually just 1-2 hours until dry to the touch. Allow 24 hours for a full cure. Thicker layers take longer.

Is Folkart Color Shift Paint weather resistant?

These paints are durable but not waterproof. Sealers provide some weather protection but indoor use is recommended for longevity.

Can you mix Folkart Color Shift Paint colors together?

Absolutely! Mixing produces new color combinations. Stir gently to retain the color shift pigments.

Is Folkart Color Shift Paint safe for kids?

Yes, it’s non-toxic and safe for kids’ arts and crafts when used as directed. Supervise young children.

How do you get Folkart Color Shift Paint off surfaces?

These acrylics clean up with soap and water when wet. Once dry, use gentle scrubbing, abrasion, or paint remover to lift off surfaces.

Unleash Your Creativity with Color Shift Paints!

The unique properties of Folkart Color Shift Paint open up a world of possibilities for artists, crafters, and DIYers. With proper selection, application, and care, these color-morphing paints can transform your projects and decor into mesmerizing works of art.

So grab a few bottles of these magical acrylics, choose your surface, and shift your creativity into high gear! Brush on thin layers and watch in awe as your colors transform.

The next time you look at a painting, craft, or object you created with color shift paints, it will look completely different as the lighting changes. That’s the beauty and charm of this product.

So try Folkart Color Shift Paint today and unleash a spectrum of exciting effects. Just wait until your friends and family see these stunning color transitions for themselves. You’ll have mastered the art of magical paint alchemy!