In this video, I go through my watercolor binder recipe and what ingredients and tools you will need, and also the steps on how to make a handmade watercolor paint binder. When you have made your binder you can mix or mull it with artist pigments, mica, or even recycle your old eyeshadow into watercolor paint!

⌛ NOTE: This binder is best if left to homogenize and settle down overnight – so be prepared to wait this time before actually using it to make your paint.

WATCH VIDEO TUTORIAL

Ingredients you will need:

• 45g (45ml) Distilled Water
• 25g (≈ 3.5 level Tbs) 100% Pure Acacia Fiber / Gum Arabic Powder*
• 10g (≈ 2tsp) Vegetable Glycerin
• 5g (≈ 1tsp) Honey (I used raw & unfiltered)
• 100% Pure Clove Oil (optional)

Tools & equipment you will need:

• Clean Storage/mixing jar – I used an 8oz mason jar
• Clean, non-porous mixing stick – I used a little SS spoon from Daiso
• Spoon or scoop for powder
• Separate, clean jar/dish to measure out the powder
• Kitchen Scale – this is the one I own
• OR Measuring Spoons and Liquid Measuring Jug
• Microwave, kettle or stove

1. Measure out 45g Distilled Water using your kitchen scale or 45ml using your liquid measuring jug.
2. Then pop it in the microwave for around 30 seconds to get the water hot, be careful taking it out 🙂
3. Put back on the scale and reset it, then add in 10g (or 2 teaspoons) of glycerin.
4. Reset scale and add in 5g (or 1 teaspoon) of honey.
5. Mix until dissolved.
6. Put another clean container on the scale and reset – then measure out 25g (approx. 3.5 Tablespoons) of Acacia Fiber/Gum Arabic Powder
7. Then gradually add in and stir the measured acacia fiber (gum arabic) powder. Try to get all the powder wet but don’t worry if it is still gloopy and lumpy, it will dissolve given time.
8. After you have done your best at mixing in the acacia fiber (gum arabic) powder just let it sit on your counter for 3o mins and it will dissolve the powder more.
9. Then add in 2 drops of clove oil and mix.
10. Put in the FRIDGE overnight – don’t leave it out on the counter as it will start to ferment.
11. The next day you should see that all the acacia fiber has been dissolved and the binder is now ready to use!
12. Always keep it stored in the fridge and it should last at least 2 months.

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