In this tutorial I am going to teach you how to make a colour changing paint. On this occasion, I have chosen to create a paint that changes colour with temperature (thermochromic).

There are so many applications in which thermochromic coatings can be used. Some of these include, colour changing t-shirts, colour changing posters, colour changing birthday cards, promotional items and educational products.

Step 1: Obtain the Correct Materials

Here are the items you will need to make 'colour changing paint' :

SFXC Thermochromic Free Flowing Powder (red 31C)
SFXC Compatible Binder
SFXC Fluorescent Pigments Yellow
SFXC Dispersing Agent (for thermochromic powder)
A Glass Muller
A Frosted Glass Plate
A Measuring Cup
Safety Gloves
Safety Goggles
Safety Mask

The volumes and quantities vary depending on the amount of paint you chose to make. I used the following:

40ml SFXC Compatible Binder
2g SFXC Thermochromic Free Flowing Powder
3g SFXC Fluorescent Pigments Yellow
10ml SFXC Dispersing Agent

Mixing Ratio: 10% Colourant (pigment) into 90% Binder + Dispersing Agent

Here are some online stores that will supply you with good quality ingredients and accessories:

https://www.sfxc.co.uk/

http://www.cornelissen.com/pigments-gums-and-resin...

http://colourchanging.co.uk/

I have chosen to create a colour changing paint that turns from orange to fluorescent yellow when it reaches 31 degrees Celsius. There are hundreds of combinations of colour, so please drop me a comment if you would like a different colour effect.

I will be adding more combinations shortly.

Step 2: Mix the Dispersing Agent & the Binder With the Fluorescent Pigments

Now you have all the correct products you are ready to start making your 'colour changing paint'

Mix the dispersing agent, binder and fluorescent pigments together in the measuring cup. Make sure you use protective equipment and an old pair of clothes as this step can get messy.

Step 3: Empty the Mixed Solution Onto the Frosted Glass Surface

Once the binder, dispersing agent and fluorescent pigments are mixed thoroughly, empty the contents onto the frosted glass plate.

Step 4: Add the Thermochromic Pigments

Add the thermochromics pigments to the mixed solution. You can use weighing scales to ensure the correct amount is used. This will also help you ensure the colour is the same when/if you make another batch.

Step 5: Mill the Products Together Using the Glass Muller and Plate

Once you have added the thermochromic free flowing powder you are ready to get mixing.

If you do not have a glass Muller and Plate, I recommend using a blender on a gentle speed setting. Do not use the blender from your kitchen as some of the chemicals may remain in the blender after it is cleaned. These chemicals could migrate into food or dink. Please be safe when using a blender.