How to Dye Silicone

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Things You'll Need

  • Gloves

  • Cleaning cloth

  • Acetone

  • Liquid silicone

  • Container

  • Silicone pigments

  • Silicone painting medium

  • Stir stick

  • Sponge

  • Paint brush

Silicone cake molds give bakers a chance to show their artistic side.
Image Credit: Salamandra86/iStock/Getty Images

Silicone is a durable polymer with a rubber-like consistency that is resistant to moisture, heat, cold and ultraviolet radiation. Crafters can use silicone to create molds of just about anything, from cookware to jewelry to knickknacks and figurines. However, getting the right color is just as important as getting the right shape. Fortunately, silicone can be dyed any color you want and looks fantastic when done properly.

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Dyeing Liquid Silicone

Step 1

Put on your gloves and pour or squeeze your liquid silicone into your container. The size of your container depends on how much silicone you wish to dye.

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Step 2

Add a small amount of silicone pigment to the container with silicone. Although the amount you add will depend on the pigment you purchase, begin by adding slightly less than the directions on the pigment container advise.

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Step 3

Mix the silicone and pigment together with your stirring stick. Combine the two materials until the silicone has the consistent color you're looking for. Add more pigment if you'd like a deeper color, but do this gradually; remember that you can't remove the dye once you've added it.

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Dyeing Solid Silicone

Step 1

Put on your gloves and clean the solid silicone surface with a clean cloth and acetone. Remove any dirt or dust that may be on the surface. Allow the silicone to dry before you dye it.

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Step 2

Add the silicone paint medium to your container. The amount you use is dependent upon how large the solid silicone surface is. Begin with a smaller amount than what you will likely use; you can always mix more paint medium later.

Step 3

Add a small amount of silicone pigment to the paint medium. Follow the directions on the pigment packaging, but begin with slightly less pigment than is advised.

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Step 4

Mix the paint medium and pigment with your stir stick. Add more pigment if you'd like a deeper color.

Step 5

Apply the dye to the solid silicone surface with a sponge or a paint brush. When using the sponge, use small circular strokes. When using a brush, use smooth up and down strokes. One coat of dye will be enough to coat the silicone.

Tip

Create a colorful necklace by dyeing round silicone balls to match your outfit.

Make your own unique cell phone case in the color of your school or favorite sports team.

Create a whole slew of colorful silicone kids toys in the shape of sea life -- tropical fish, eels, urchins, crabs, starfish and coral.

Warning

Wear older clothing or an apron and adequately cover your work space in case the dye splatters or spills.

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