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MAKEWORKS
Paints/Charcoal & Bone Black
WatercolorSoot / CarbonEasySafety: Moderate Risk

Charcoal & Bone Black

Vine charcoal or burnt bone, ground into a wash.

Color
Soft warm black
Binder
Gum arabic

Grind charcoal sticks to dust and mix with gum arabic and water for a soft black paint.

  • ▸Sift the powder finely so it brushes smoothly.
  • ▸Cheaper and cleaner than collecting lampblack soot.
  • ▸Sticks well to rough watercolor paper.

Steps

  1. 01

    Grind charcoal to talc-fine powder; sift twice.

  2. 02

    Mull powder on a tile with water until silky.

  3. 03

    Add gum arabic solution and grind again until paint flows.

Materials
3
  • — Hardwood vine charcoal (or clean burnt bone)
  • — Mortar and pestle, fine sieve
  • — Gum arabic solution

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

Bone black is denser and warmer than vine charcoal. Both are fully lightfast.