Most glow-in-the-dark paint contains a phosphorous powder that makes it glow. But what if you don’t have any powder and must make some paint immediately? Is there a way to still make glow paint?
Yes, there is, and this blog post will show you exactly that. It’s effortless, and you can start immediately with your household items or may need some items easily available at nearby stores.
So if you’re ever in a bind and need to make some glow in the dark paint, give this recipe a try! Also, remember that some methods will provide a UV glow and may not glow long without UV light, so read fully.
Now, first, let’s start with a small definition.
Table of Contents
What is a Glow in the Dark Paint –
Phosphorescent paint is paint that glows in the dark after being exposed to light due to the presence of a phosphor. The glowing effect is because phosphors absorb light energy and emit it back very slowly.
These paints are used in various applications, from security markings to artistic endeavors.
Ways to Make Glow in the Dark Paint without Glow Powder –
There are a couple of ways to make glow paint with the powder. You can use the one suiting you the best. Some methods may seem weird, but it is what it is.
However, keep in mind that the paint will not be as bright as it would be with the powder. And I strongly recommend going with a glow powder(I’ll tell you later why).
Before getting into the different processes, I want to explain two things that you’ll encounter white a couple of times –
1) Clear Glue – Clear glue is a kind of glue that is see-through. It is used to make slime and various arts & crafts. You can use any brand or check the best ones here.
2) Binders – A binder is a substance that will make the paint more cohesive. You can use cornstarch, flour, or even sugar for this purpose.
Let’s see the different ways to make glow paint without glow powder.
1. With phosphorescent paint –
One way to make glow in the dark paint without powder is to use phosphorescent paint. These paints already contain phosphor, so all you need to do is add a binder.
To make the paint, mix one-part phosphorescent paint with two parts of any clear glue or binder. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface.
You can check the whole method here.
2. With highlighter ink –
Another way to make glow in the dark paint without powder is to use highlighter ink. Highlighters contain a phosphorescent compound called naphthoquinone, which makes them glow in the dark.
Mix equal parts of highlighter ink and clear glue or binder to make the paint. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface.
Here is the whole process with a highlighter.
3. With neon food coloring –
If you want to make glow paint without using any kind of powder or liquid, then you can use neon food coloring. Neon food coloring contains a fluorescent dye called rhodamine B, which makes it glow under ultraviolet light.
Mix equal parts of neon food coloring and clear glue or binder to make the paint. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface.
Check the process of making glow paint with neon food colors.
4. With glow sticks –
Glow sticks contain a fluorescent dye called rhodamine B, which makes them glow in the dark. You can use the liquid from a broken glow stick to make glow in the dark paint.
Mix equal parts of the glow stick liquid and clear glue or binder to make the paint. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface. Check the explained process here.
5. With fluorescent tape –
The fluorescent tape contains a fluorescent dye that makes it glow in the dark. You can use this tape to make glow in the dark paint.
Mix equal parts of fluorescent tape and clear glue or binder to make the paint. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface. The full process is here.
5. With laundry detergent –
Laundry detergent also contains a fluorescent dye that makes it glow in the dark. You can use laundry detergent to make glow in the dark paint.
Mix equal parts of laundry detergent and clear glue or binder to make the paint. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface. However, keep in mind that the color of the paint will be affected by the color of the detergent.
You can check how to make glow in the dark paint with laundry detergent.
6. With Vitamin B12 –
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that contains a phosphorescent compound called cobalt. When exposed to light, this compound glows in the dark.
To make the paint, mix one part of vitamin B12 with two parts of any clear glue or binder. Once you have a smooth mixture, you can apply it to any surface.
Once you have made the paint, you need to expose it to light before it glows in the dark. The best way to do this is to put it in a sunny spot or under a lamp for about an hour. After that, you can turn off the lights and see your paint glow!
Why Choose Glow Powder over Others –
Glow in the dark powder is the best way to make glow paint as it’s easier to use and produces a more intense glow than other methods. The powder is also more durable than other methods, so it will last longer.
Other methods, such as using highlighter ink or neon food coloring, will fade over time. The powder is also non-toxic, so it is safe to use. Other methods, such as using glow sticks, can be toxic if ingested.
If you want to make glow in the dark paint that is safe, easy to use, and long-lasting, then glow powder is the best option. Plus, it is relatively inexpensive compared to some other methods.
So overall, we recommend using glow powder to make your own glow in the dark paint without any liquid. It is easy to use and produces a more intense glow than other methods.
Things to keep in Mind –
1. The paint will not be as bright as it would be with the powder.
2. You need to expose it to light before it glows in the dark.
3. The best way to do this is to put it in a sunny spot or under a lamp for about an hour. After that, you can turn off the lights and see your paint glow!
Tips and Tricks of How to make Glow in the Dark Paint without powder-
1. You can use any clear glue or binder for this project.
2. If you want to make the paint glow brighter, you can add more phosphorescent paint or highlighter ink.
3. You can also add glitter to the paint to make it sparkle in the dark.
4. To make fluorescent paint, you can use neon food coloring or fluorescent tape.
5. You can also use laundry detergent or vitamin B12 to make glow in the dark paint.
6. Be sure to expose the paint to light before you use it so that it will glow in the dark.
FAQ –
1. Can I use any clear glue or binder for this project?
Yes, you can use any clear glue or binder for this project. But, if you want the paint to be brighter, you can add more phosphorescent paint or highlighter ink.
2. Can I add glitter to the paint?
Yes, you can add glitter to the paint to make it sparkle in the dark. It will be more fun and pleasant to look at!
3. What is the best way to expose the paint to light?
The best way to expose the paint to light is to put it in a sunny spot or under a lamp for about an hour. After that, you can turn off the lights and see your paint glow!
4. Can I use neon food coloring to make fluorescent paint?
Yes, you can use neon food coloring to make fluorescent paint. Just add it to the clear glue or binder and mix it well.
5. How long does the paint take to glow?
Once you have made the paint, you need to expose it to light before it glows in the dark. The best way to do this is to put it in a sunny spot or under a lamp for about an hour. After that, you can turn off the lights and see your paint glow!
Conclusion –
So, there you have it. You can make your own glow in the dark paint without any powder. It’s easy, and all you need are a few household items. Give it a try and see how cool your paintings look in the dark!
Leave a Reply