Raysin is a popular plaster-based casting powder that's ideal for creative DIY projects—from decorative objects to jewelry to seasonal figurines. In addition to shaping, coloring also plays a key role. In this article, we'll show you how to color Raysin and which techniques have proven successful in practice.
1. Powder dyes: Powder Compound from KeraCraft
KeraCraft's Powder Compound offers a simple and clean way to color . This fine color powder is added directly to the powder mixture. The pigments bond well with the casting material, producing a uniform, matte color.
Application: The color powder is added to the Raysin powder before mixing with water. The dosage can be adjusted depending on the desired color intensity.
Advantages:
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Good control over color intensity
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Easy handling
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Particularly suitable for pastel shades
2. Acrylic paints – e.g., indoor/outdoor paints by Bine Brändel
Acrylic paints can also be used to color Raysin. A popular choice are the indoor/outdoor paints by Bine Brändel , available from Desda.shop . These colors are particularly intense and versatile.
Application: Add a small amount of the dye to the mixed Raysin. It's important to mix thoroughly to avoid streaks.
Note: Too much acrylic paint can affect the strength of the cast object – so use sparingly.
Advantages:
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Strong colors possible
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Good selection of colors
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Also suitable for later painting
3. Pigments – liquid, e.g. refill ink for stamp pads
A more experimental but interesting method is the use of liquid pigments , such as those found in ink pad refills . These are ideal for small projects or special color effects.
Application: The pigment liquid is added drop by drop to the mixed Raysin mass. The dosage can be adjusted depending on the color intensity.
Important: Compatibility and mixability depend on the specific product. A sample sample is recommended in advance.
Advantages:
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Intense color results with small volume
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Good for targeted color gradients or effects
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Can be combined individually
4. Food coloring (liquid or powder)
Although originally intended for use in the kitchen, food coloring is occasionally used to color Raysin, especially in the hobby sector.
Application: Powder or liquid is added to the water before it is mixed with the Raysin.
Note: Not all dyes are UV-resistant or lightfast. They are not suitable for permanent objects.
Advantages:
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Easily available
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Large selection of colors
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Suitable for temporary or decorative objects
5. Ink from felt-tip pens
A creative, low-budget method is to use ink from old felt-tip pens . These are created (e.g., by soaking the lead in water) and can be used to color small amounts of Raysin.
Disadvantage: Very limited lightfastness and color control – more suitable for experiments or children's projects.
6. Airbrush paints or alcohol inks (only suitable to a limited extent)
Some users also experiment with airbrush paints or alcohol inks . These are highly pigmented and can be mixed in liquid form.
Caution: Many of these paints contain solvents that can negatively affect the binder in the Raysin. Prior testing is essential.
7. Powdered chalk or pastels
Artist's chalk or pastel chalk crushed with a mortar can also be used as a color pigment.
Application: The powder is mixed with dry Raysin. The color effect is usually gentle and natural.
Coloring with Raysin is extremely versatile, depending on the desired effect and application. For consistent tones, color powders like those from KeraCraft are recommended. Acrylic paints offer high coverage and are also suitable for painting after casting. Liquid pigments from ink pad refills enable special effects and color gradients.
In addition to the well-known methods such as color powder, acrylic paints, and liquid pigments, there are numerous experimental alternatives. It's important to keep in mind that Raysin is water-soluble and porous, which affects the color absorption, adhesion, and color intensity. If you want to achieve lasting, beautiful results, you should cast test pieces beforehand.
Which approach is the right one depends on the project and the desired look – a bit of experimentation is always involved.
Picture with the houses: Dani - Tinkerwells