River Clay Ochre
Scoop a fistful of riverbank clay — it is already pigment.
Riverbank clay is already pigment. You just rinse out the sand and keep the fine mud.
- ▸Stir clay into water — sand sinks fast, real pigment stays floating as a cloud.
- ▸Pour the cloudy water into a new jar and let it settle overnight.
- ▸Dry the soft mud at the bottom: that is your paint, ready to grind.
Steps
- 01
Drop the clay into a jar of water and shake hard until it dissolves into a slurry.
- 02
Let it sit 30 seconds — sand sinks, fine pigment stays suspended.
- 03
Pour the cloudy water into a second jar (leave the grit behind). Let it settle overnight.
- 04
Pour off the clear water; dry the soft mud at the bottom — that is your levigated pigment.
- 05
Mull with binder to a smooth paint and pan up.
Materials4
- — A handful of clay from a streambank, eroded cliff, or fresh roadcut
- — A jar of water
- — Fine sieve or stocking
- — Gum arabic + honey binder
Safety
Involves dust, mild chemistry, sharp tools, or solvents. Use PPE and ventilate.
- Airborne dust — respiratory irritant
- ☐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
This water-washing trick (levigation) is how every earth pigment has been refined for 30,000 years.