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MAKEWORKS
Paints/Rust (Iron Oxide) Paint
WatercolorEarth / MineralModerateSafety: High Risk

Rust (Iron Oxide) Paint

Make your own iron oxide — the oldest red on Earth.

Color
Burnt orange to deep red-brown
Binder
Gum arabic

Make iron-vinegar liquid, mix with chalk, and brush on. It dries an aged orange-brown.

  • ▸It's literally rust suspended in a binder.
  • ▸Looks fantastic over wood — instant antique finish.
  • ▸On tannic surfaces it darkens dramatically.

Steps

  1. 01

    Soak steel wool in vinegar 1–2 weeks until orange-brown.

  2. 02

    Pour off liquid, slowly add baking soda — orange iron oxide will precipitate.

  3. 03

    Let settle, pour off water, rinse the sediment 2–3 times with clean water.

  4. 04

    Dry the orange paste completely, then grind to powder — that is your pigment.

  5. 05

    Mull with gum arabic solution to make watercolor.

Materials
4
  • — Steel wool or rusty iron
  • — White vinegar
  • — Baking soda
  • — Gum arabic solution

Safety

High Risk

Involves caustics, acids, or open flame. Full PPE and trained supervision recommended.

Hazards identified
  • Acidic / corrosive etchant
  • Airborne dust — respiratory irritant
Quick checklist
  • ☐Wear goggles, apron, and acid-resistant gloves
  • ☐Always pour acid into water, not the reverse
  • ☐Neutralize and dispose per local hazardous-waste rules
  • ☐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

Same chemistry as cave-painting ochre. Heat the dried oxide gently in a pan to shift toward red.