Cliff Chalk White

A fingertip of soft white from a chalk outcrop — millions of fossil shells.

Color

Cool soft white

Binder

Gum arabic + honey

A lump of chalk from a cliff or quarry is fossil shells, ground fine into a soft white paint.

▸Crush, slurry, settle, dry — same washing trick as colored earths.
▸Not bright enough to cover dark colors, but perfect as a soft highlight.
▸Same stuff as the white Cliffs of Dover.

Steps

01
Crush the chalk to powder in a mortar.
02
Slurry in water; let sand sink, decant the milky water; let settle overnight.
03
Pour off, dry the white mud, regrind to talc-fine powder.
04
Mull with binder to a smooth paint and pan up.

Materials

— A lump of natural chalk (from a chalk cliff, quarry, or limestone outcrop)
— Mortar and pestle
— Jar of water for levigation
— Gum arabic + honey binder

Safety

Moderate Risk

Involves dust, mild chemistry, sharp tools, or solvents. Use PPE and ventilate.

Hazards identified

Airborne dust — respiratory irritant

Quick checklist

☐Wear an N95 / FFP2 mask when handling dry powders
☐Mix in a tray to contain dust; wipe surfaces wet
☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible

Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.

Notes

Pure calcium carbonate — same as the Cliffs of Dover or any limestone hill. Use as a soft highlight.