Making and Application of Paint

Paint, like drawing media, requires a binder and pigment. Pigment is the actual colored material that has been crushed into a powder. It is then mixed into a substance that suspends the pigment and creates a more liquid medium.

Throughout history, paints have changed. In prehistoric times, earth was ground and mixed with spit or animal fat. Centuries later, other natural materials were ground into a powder form and mixed with hot wax, egg, or oil. In more recent times, man-made pigments and binders have produced colors and textures never before achieved.

Once the paint was mixed, it was applied to a support, such as wood or canvas. The support is often covered with a primer to prevent quick absorption of the paint, and to provide a fresh, even surface.