Is there a way to sample metallic paint?
Is there a way to sample metallic paint?
Question
I have some color swatches from a local car dealer that are about 8.5" by 11" and the paint samples are metallics. Is there a way to scan these metallic color paint samples sheets, then use a large sample brush to get the metallic "texture" and be able to add it to my color swatches? That way if I want to do a metallic blue, red, silver, green, or whatever label background fill... I can use the bucket fill or maybe save it as a brush or texture? Using CS4 Photoshop.
Popular Answer
No, you can't. The reflective nature of metallic paint is due to little particles suspended in an otherwise flat color. Light bounces off these particles in different directions creating a unique look that can't be reproduced by using a paint brush.
You could simulate metallic paint by adding noise and playing around with different layers and gradients to mimic light shining off a glossy paint surface. Once you develop a process you can refine it and document the steps to reproduce later. You might be able to create a pattern for your noise and a style for your gradients (if you use layer effects) that can help make the process easier to replicate.