You can paint modeling chocolate using several methods, depending on the desired effect and the condition of the chocolate.
Methods for Painting Modeling Chocolate
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Powdered Food Coloring (Dry Brushing): For adding accents or shading, lightly dust dry powdered food coloring onto the modeling chocolate. This works best on freshly shaped, still-slightly-damp chocolate, as it absorbs the color better. (Reddit - Any tips for color?)
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Wet Paint Method (Paste): Mix powdered food colors or luster dusts with vodka or cocoa butter to create a wet paste. This is ideal for thicker applications of color or when the modeling chocolate is too dry to absorb powdered colors. (Wicked Goodies)
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Petal Dust and Lemon Extract: A small amount of petal dust mixed with lemon extract can create a paint for delicate details. (Cake Paper Party)
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Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder can be used for adding contour or shading to your modeling chocolate. (Wicked Goodies)
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Gel Food Coloring (with alcohol): Gel food coloring thinned with alcohol (like vodka or everclear) can be used as a paint on set modeling chocolate. However, using oil-based colors designed for chocolate is recommended to prevent seizing. (CakeCentral - Can I Paint On Modeling Chocolate?)
Important Considerations:
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Drying: Ensure the modeling chocolate is completely dry before painting with wet mediums, especially if using alcohol-based thinners, to avoid discoloration or bleeding. (CakeCentral - Good Lord, Please Help Me...)
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Oil-Based Colors: Oil-based food coloring is best to avoid the modeling chocolate seizing. (CakeCentral - Can I Paint On Modeling Chocolate?)
