Add contrast to black and white photos with oil paints.
Coloring black-and-white photographs can create beautiful pieces of art. Marshall's oil paints for photographs are a transparent, oil-based paint. The transparency allows the original photo to show through the color. It is important to use photographs printed on matte photo paper because the paints will not stick to a glossy finish. Because the paints are oil-based, you can manipulate them on the photograph once applied.
Instructions
1. Make paint applicators by placing the toothpick in the middle of the cotton strip and twisting small pieces of cotton around the tip. Twist the cotton around the toothpick with your fingers until it is tight.
2. Apply any background color desired first using a small bit of the cotton. Rub the color over the background, keeping the color even.
3. Apply detailed color to the photo with the cotton-tipped applicators. After applying color, you can then use a clean cotton-tipped toothpick to manipulate the oil paints and add subtle details such as highlights.
4. Use a cotton-tipped toothpick dipped in liquid color remover for any mistakes. It is especially useful for cleaning out color from eyes and other small details.
5. Allow the photograph to dry. This can take two to three days. An entire week of drying is recommended before spraying with a finishing lacquer. The drying time can be longer depending upon the humidity in the air.
6. Remove any remaining pieces of cotton fluff from the photograph by rubbing it gently with your clean palm.
7. Spray with a finishing lacquer to preserve the photograph. Follow the instructions on the spray for proper ventilation and other requirements.
