WORKING WITH LUSTER DUST
What is luster dust?
Luster dust is a very fine metallic type powder that when mixed into an alcohol based extract, creates a shiny metallic paint finish. When brushed on it gives a subtle color with a high sheen metallic-like finish. They can be used either alone, or mixed with similar colored matte dusts to create a lustrous sheen, without lightening the color. Brushed on white, they exhibit color and a metallic sheen. Not water soluble. Contains 2 or more of: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxide, Carmine, Mica. Non toxic. Cake decorators use it to embellish certain pieces of their work. You can also brush luster dust on dry to give a piece a "sparkly" effect.
A lot of my students have asked about using luster dust. I recently saw a site that had a good explaination of what it is and how to use it. There is also a link to a short video demonstration! If you are looking to buy luster dusts you will have to order them from a cake decorating supplier on line as they are unlikely to be found in local craft stores. Do NOT use the link at the end of the page to order your luster dust..it is WAYYYY overpriced! Typically a 2gram container should not cost more than $2.99. This site is charging $6.95!
Petal Dust: Petal Dust is used to achieve deep hues with a matte finish. When brushed on petals of white or gumpaste flowers, a realistic effect is created. Mix with water, alcohol or oil-based flavorings for painting, highlighting or deepening of colors. Contains no cornstarch. Colors intensify when mixed with liquids. Can be mixed/applied with Pearl or Luster dusts for a variety of effects. Water soluble. Non toxic.
Sparkle Dust: Sparkle dust is similar to luster dust in effect, but has a larger grain size & gives gumpaste flowers a wet or dewy look, with just a touch of color. Not water soluble. Contains 2 or more of: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxide, Carmine, Mica. Non toxic.
Pearl Dust: Pearl dust produces a shimmery luster. The Super Pearl will give flowers made from colored gum paste a glistening look. When dusted on white petals, the other pearls [blue, gold, green, orange, red or violet] exhibit a subtle translucent or iridescent reflective colored sheen while displaying no apparent or strong color. May be combined with, or applied over, Petal Dust to create custom colors or effects. Contain: Titanium Dioxide & Mica. Not water soluble. Non toxic.
Highlighting Dusts: These come in either Silver or Gold and impart a very high sheen to your creations. Note that these are non-edible.
