Use a palette knife or your hand to spread out a layer of Powertex Ivory or White on Canvas or Styrofoam base where you want to create the crackle effect.

Do not apply an even layer but create difference in thickness: the thicker the layer, the bigger the cracks will be.

Let this dry by air or use a hair dryer starting with the thickest layer but do not come close to your project or you risk to blow away the Powertex.  When the top layer is showing wrinkles or looks mat it’s dry enough to Spray some Bister on top of it.

Beautiful effects can be created by spraying several colors.

Carefully dry with a blow dryer. Cracks will appear.

 

Bister (from nut husk) is water-based and is available in spray bottle in Mahogany, Yellow, Green, Blue, Red, Black and brown patina.

Bister Brown is still available in the original bottle.

Important : Bister is NOT water resistant and need a protective coating for artwork placed outside. Best is to use varnish in a spray can.

Paintings with Bister also need protection from fading by spraying some varnish.