The art of rust

Project ideas and inspiration from Good magazine

Use a dynamic paint effect for a Mad Hatter’s tea party sculpture.

Resene FX Faux Rust Effect is a two-pot waterborne paint system that adds a beautiful rust effect to a wide range of paintable surfaces. The depth and intensity of colour can vary depending on the base materials you choose, the paint technique you use, and how many coats are applied – making it ideal for creative projects.

Resene FX Faux Rust Effect can be applied to wood, metal, concrete and a range of wall surfaces. For best effects and longevity, it is recommended that a suitable primer is first applied to the paintable surface. For more experimental projects, try applying the paint directly.

Mad Hatter’s tea party sculpture - rust paint effect

You will need

Step by step instructions

 

Step 1 - collect objects and clean Step 1:
Collect objects to paint. I used old cans and teapots, empty Resene paint tins, wood offcuts and a wooden trim block moulding. Ensure all surfaces are free of dust and loose material.

Step 2 - Apply Resene FX Faux Rust Effect Step 2:
Put on protective gear. Lay out a dropcloth. Use a paintbrush to apply 1-2 coats of Resene FX Faux Rust Effect, allowing four hours drying time in between.

Step 3 - Apply the activator Step 3:
Pour enough product for one coat of Resene FX Faux Rust Effect Activator into a second container. This avoids contaminating the remaining solution. Apply the activator when the basecoat is tacky or touch dry.

Step 4 - Notice the rust effect developing Step 4:
The rust effect will be noticeable within the hour, only on the areas coated with activator, and with most of it developing within the first 12 hours.

Step 5 - Apply an optional second coat of activator Step 5:
Apply an optional second coat of Resene FX Faux Rust Effect Activator for a more intense result.

Step 6 - Allow to dry and arrange objects in place Step 6:
Allow your objects to fully dry before arranging in place. If necessary, fix together with wire or strong glue.

Step 7 - Fill with potting mix and plants Step 7:
Fill teapots or pots with potting mix and plants.

Step 8 - Mist surface with water for a deeper effect Step 8:
For an even deeper effect, mist surfaces with water within 12-24 hours of applying the activator solution.

A closeup of the finished sculpture Finished project:
A close-up of the finished Mad Hatter’s tea party sculpture.

 

Product mentioned in this article...

Resene FX Faux Rust Effect
Resene FX Faux Rust Effect

Coming soon

Words and photography by Sarah Heeringa.

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December 2024