Add a rusty layer for a grungy mixed media art

Add real rust layer to your mixed media art with Powertex Rusty Powder. Powertex Bister and Rusty Powder are a great combination while creating lots of texture and atmosphere in your mixed media art. The rust colours and textures are easy to achieve with this guide to the rusty layer. The example below uses blue Bister and in the video I’m using red and mahogany Bister.

If you haven’t used Bister before you can download a free guide. Find more inspiration for rusty mixed media art from mixed media style layers to textured, abstract landscapes.

Blue Bister and Rust art by Kore Sage from Rusty landscapes series

Mixing up Powertex Rusty Powder

Create a rusty paint with Powertex Universal Medium, Rusty Powder and white vinegar. The Powertex medium acts as an adhesive for the Rusty Powder and the vinegar will cause the rust to develop. Powertex 3D Sand is used to thicken the mixture but it also alters the texture and colour. It’s possible to create a very thick, textured paste with the 3d sand for heavy textures.

It’s not necessary to be very precise in mixing this up, but remember the more Rusty Powder you add, the darker your results will be. The same with the vinegar. Go easy with your ingredients and add more if needed. Watch the video below to see how the mixture should look.

In this art I’ve used Red and Mahogany Bister but use your favourite Bister colours to create art that you love. Personally, I love the look of the blue Bister next to the rust.

Using Rusty Powder for a mixed media rust layer

Join us in the Powertex With Kore to share your own art and creations or ask questions about how to get the effects you want.

Create unique rust and Bister mixed media art
Red Bister and Rust Powertex painting

Find out more about creating Powertex art

If you would like to know more about using Powertex Universal Medium to create art, there’s lots of information here to get you started. Check out my free guides for beginners or if you’re looking for something more in depth, try the downloadable instruction in my Etsy shop.

Hop over to the Facebook group if you have any questions about using Rusty Powder in your Powertex art or come and share your own Powertex art, I’d love to see it!


1 Comment

Art table notes September 2020 - Kore Sage | Mixed Media Artist · 27th September 2020 at 2:14 pm

[…] The Powertex supplies have been waiting patiently this month for my attention. I get a lot of questions about how I use Rusty Powder in my art so I’ve added a new Rusty Powder Quick Guide to the Etsy store.  This one is a short introduction for beginners who are looking for a basic recipe and instruction as well as my tutor tips and tricks for using rust in your Powertex art. There’s also a Powertex rust and Bister blog here. […]

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