How to Make Thermochromic Ink

Are you tired of the same old boring colors on all your t-shirts? Do you think glow-in-the dark ink has just lost it shine? Well if you answered yes to either of these, or in my case both, thermochromic ink is the thing for you. Thermochromic ink is paint that changes color when it is heated. You can create a range of color changes like green to blue or brown to purple. You'll have the entire spectrum in the palm of your hand! And the best part is, you can use it on a variety of things including clothing, walls, even finger nail polish!

Materials List

Acrylic Paint
Acrylic Medium
Thermochromic Pigment
Stirring Stick
Paint Storing Jars or disposable cups
Applicator
Plastic Spoons
Some material to test on (cut-up cloth)
Hairdryer

Step 1

In the mixing container, add 1 teaspoon of acrylic medium.

Step 2

Add 5 teaspoons of acrylic paint to the medium. Mix until smooth.

Step 3

To the mixture, add desired amount thermochomic pigment, mixing in 1 teaspoon at a time.

Step 4

Once everything is combined, spread a small, even layer of the paint on a piece of scrap material. Allow it to dry for about two hours.

Step 5

Once the paint has dried, take the hairdryer and hold it over the painted area until it the color changes. If it doesn't, add more thermochromic pigment to the left-over paint and repeat steps 4-6.

Step 6

After all the changes have been made, paint the ink on a t-shirt in any design and enjoy!