Liquid Latex Tricks and Tips

There are a few different ways the application of liquid latex can be varied, either to make it easier to work with or to achieve different effects.

The painting area needs a balance of ventilation, as liquid latex lets off a small amount of ammonia vapors, and warmth, so that the model doesn’t become chilled by the drying/evaporating liquid latex. Be sure to let each coat dry completely before applying the next one, and use three or more coats for the best solid coverage. You can use a hair dryer to help with drying, but be sure not to dry out those brushes!

Foam brushes and rollers will provide the smoothest finish. For large areas and full body coverage, 2”-3” widths are good, with 1.5”-1” working well for edges and details. Have extras on hand, as once any latex dries on the foam brush, it ruins it, as the dried latex will keep sticking to the latex that is already dried on your model and will actually rip it off. Keep brushes in water if you have to take a break while you are working, and then squeeze them out well when you start up again.

Tips and Tricks

Bristle brushes, sponges and fingers all work for applying liquid latex, and each gives a different effect and texture. Liquid latex looks almost pastel when wet, and dries to a much darker shade. If you apply colors over each other while they are still wet, then can run together a bit and discolr, so make sure to really let each layer dry all the way through before applying the next one. Think out your designs to decide if it’s better to layer dark colors over light or vice versa. Some liquid latex colors are black-light sensitive and stripes and spots can get much more exciting in the dark.

Get some great tips and inspiration for body painting with Body Painting: Masterpieces by Joanne Gair or
Drawing a Crowd: World Body Painting Festival, a DVD of the annual world-famous body painting event.