Mixative Marbling

Create marbled surfaces using Metallic Mixatives.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   Find a container slightly larger than your paper panel. Add plain water (about an inch deep here).

   

2. Step 2

   Add several drops of Ranger Metallic Mixative to the water. The Mixative will spread and create a film on the surface. (Photo shows one drop of Mixative. Add more as needed to fill the surface in your container.)

   

3. Step 3

   Lay a piece of dark cardstock or matboard onto the surface to marble it. The Mixative will adhere to whatever is dipped into it or pressed against it.

   

4. The film will be broken with the first dip, but you can usually get a second background out of the remaining smaller pieces.
   
   Set the panels aside to dry completely.
   

   

5. Step 4

   Add more than one color for a different look. Use a palette knife or skewer to gently pull the colors around the surface if they are trapped.

   

6. You can also add color to the marbling with alcohol ink.
   
   

   

7. Step 5

   Remember alcohol inks will adhere to non-porous surfaces! This is a plastic egg with a finish similar to a ping pong ball.

   

8. Step 6

   When the ink is dry, use the marbled pieces to complete cards or other projects.

   

Video!

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Mixative Marbling. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!

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