How To: Adding Paint to Engraved Jesmonite Pieces
I started working with Jesmonite after working with epoxy eco-resin for a few years, and when I made the switch over to Jesmonite I realised that a lot of my molds had beautiful engravings on them, and wanted to try and use them rather than having to destash some of my favourite molds!
So it took a few months of work to refine the technique for adding paint to the engravings of my Jesmonite pieces, and I wanted to share that process with you. Here's the method I have refined - of course, using your own materials and style you can find your own way as well.
Step 1: After demoulding, leave on your drying rack for upwards of 24 hours. As you will be wet-sanding, it's always best to make sure the piece is fully dried out so it doesn't become to fragility or lose structural integrity.
Step 2: Paint your etchings using a Posca paint marker or Citadel paints. The deeper the engraving, the thinner your marker-tip / paintbrush should be to ensure you fill every little bit!
Step 3: After the paint has dried, wet sand with a high-grit sanding paper. I start with a 1500 grit minimum and work up to a 3200 to get a smooth finish.
Step 4: Make sure every bit of Jesmonite dust is out of your engravings.
Step 5: Give your piece another 24 hours to dry before sealing with your water-resistance sealant.
I hope fellow crafters can find this step-by-step tutorial helpful!
Al x