141. Cell Activator Recipe (American Floetrol recipe), recipe and how I mix it up close. THIS WORKS!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I appreciate you stopping by! Remember to Subscribe if you haven't already! Hit the bell 🔔 and you’ll be notified of my latest uploads!

[@scarlettm1699]

You are the reason why I stayed up late, fell asleep with a smile and paint splatter all over me for weeks. You are also the reason my family and friends are getting a $1.25 jar that now looks like a million bucks. Louise, I can’t thank you enough for being so generous with your time and talent. I am so grateful and happy! Thank you.😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@scarlettm1699 😘😘thank you so much Scarlett, i’m so glad I’ve helped you out to spread your talent and joy to your friends and family! I’m glad you’re enjoying the videos and merry Christmas🎄

[@denisemiller8474]

Thanks for being speedy and to the point so many artists drag on

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You bet, Denise, 💕I actually take great pride and getting to the point and sharing information it’s meaningful and succinct!

[@dominusstyx]

Finally a common sense CA video, without breaking the bank with this, very expensive and hard to find, Aussie floetrol. Thank you.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@dominusstyx thank you 😘so much and the pre stain wood conditioner lasts a long time because you’re only using a few drips, so I would suggest getting the Small, (red oil-based can). And most importantly, it works. I’ve had lots of great feedback, and remember, you don’t need to add a ton of cell activator just a little tiny drip is all you need. Good luck.!

[@dominusstyx]

@@LouiseMcKayArt I like your attitude and of course your art, so I’m subscribing to your channel. Take care.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@dominusstyx thanks so much Dominus, 😘highest compliment to earn your subscription. Be sure to check out my playlist as I have variety of creations broken down into categories. Enjoy and Welcome!!

[@chriscoulson1118]

Thank you SO SO SO much! I bought am of this and more a few years ago, but the only You Tuber I could find really made things intimidating, so I packed it all up. I'm getting it out again. So glad I found you!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks so much Chris!💙🩵music to my ears! I think ppl make it seem daunting so they boost their ego and try to make you dependent on them. Honestly, when you get the recipes and consistencies down, you can paint anything while perfecting your technique! What are you interested in doing?

[@yvonnekirk3625]

Thank you so much! I haven’t been able to find a good cell activator till now.💕💕

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Oh thank you Yvonne! I’m so glad this is working for you!😘

[@DebbiePagtalonia]

Wow, I cannot believe I missed this video! It is amazing you were able to figure this out.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks Deborah, I’ve seen others use the pre-stain and variations on the Floetrol, but I played around and made it quantifiable thru trial and error to come up with a recipe that works!

[@brenda33181bs]

This is the best, most comprehensive video on the bloom technique that I've come across to date. Thank you.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks so much Brenda!🧡

[@mrsCJust4fun]

O thank you just bought a gallon of America floeral. And thouht it was a loss. Tysvm. You are such a great artist and teacher. May God bless you and all your neighbors

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you so much 💙Mrs. C, no loss there, definitely follow the recipe though. I hope this helps and thank you for the well wishes.😘

[@NicieIbarra]

Hello Louise, thank you so much for teaching us how you mix your paints and the CA! I truly appreciate you sharing your experience and knowledge!!! New subscriber!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@NicieIbarra thanks Nicie and welcome. I do a lot of sharing here. I always put plenty of tips and hints in all my videos to make it worth your while watching. Please know that I do have many playlists of my functional art broken down by category so you can see different things to create all in one file. Please enjoy and feel free to ask questions.😘

[@TammyTyo]

I just read everybody's comments and everybody is right this is the best cell activator recipe video that's out there

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Wow, thank you so much, it definitely helps those that need measurements, and I also share the consistency so it helps those that look at consistencies

[@isabelladavis1363]

Well I tried the ornaments yesterday and not sure if my Flo troll American is bad or what but am starting allllll over with this exact recipe since I tried to cut expenses with other recipes…this looks like the BOMB to get me rolling once more thank you so much for sharing your vast knowledge…part two on the way lol…

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Isabella, make sure when you use the mini wax pre-stained wood conditioner, which is the red can in oil based, you follow the recipe. Do not try to use varnish as a substitute it will not work. I’ve had several people recently say they’ve tried substituting and You are better off without using varnish. But the pre stain wood conditioner. Just those 20 drops in a small batch I share will do the trick.

[@isabelladavis1363]

@ bless you for the clarification…I did go deeper into your notes and found the exact one to use hope our location has the product🙏🏻

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@isabelladavis1363 good luck if you check out my most recent video, I even share a insect photo of the red can that you would be looking for so you know exactly what you’re going for. The Minwax pre-stain wood conditioner is the red can oil based product. Here’s the link to the video where I show it around 4:30 min into the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hXfVdpyGrZ6kpbMsi=nIRvlsCU6LnF621G

[@KcPenguins]

Great job, I enjoyed learning lookinh forward to another new project. Keep hydrated.. 💛 it's dry weather. 😊 🎨 Happy creating

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks 😘KC I always something going. Hydration is always good but not dry around here! Enjoy💙💙💙

[@KcPenguins]

The idea I have is to decorate old porcelain door knobs, glued into a piece of wood to hang purses on or just shopping bags, jewelry,.. I don't have your skills though, I believe they would sell well. If you're not interested pass the idea on to someone who can benefit. ☀️Kc ​@@LouiseMcKayArt

[@RebekahSue]

Thanks again! This time when I watched it, I added the recipe to my notebook. Your results are fabulous so wish me luck.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks and good luck, make sure it’s thinner than your paints and pretty much pours off the stick into your container with a tiny mound as it goes in!

[@sagduyu2023]

Thank you very much for the recipe. I live in Turkey and do not have the opportunity to buy Australian Floetrol. I've been looking for a recipe that works without Australian Floetrol for months. Some trainers always claim that only with Australian Floetrol the cells will be the way they should be and that one should not even try to look for alternatives. That would be impossible. I was about to give up this hobby until I read a post on FB recommending your recipe. Now I have the motivation again. 🥰

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I’m so happy to hear. 💙🩵I have a Creation video for how I make my cell activator and I like it better than AU Floetrol . it’s very specific and detailed. It’s video 141..

[@dominusstyx]

I'm Canadian, the same applies here. Aussie floetrol isn't only hard to find but insanely expensive as well. I never watch videos that using it. It's like they're cheating. Pretenders.

[@Cchouette]

Thank you so much Louise for sharing your recipe with us 😊🌈

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@Cchouette absolutely, I love this recipe. I actually prefer it to the Australian Floetrol!!🧡

[@TammyTyo]

Thanks Louise for this sell activator recipe I live in Canada and I need to order the Australian floetrol I have never bought it before I've been doing paintings for almost 3 years now and I'm not bad on it but I just can't afford the Australian float all so this recipe really helps so thank you thank you thank you

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You’re welcome, Tammy, this recipe works equally well as the Australian! I’m glad it’s gonna help you all🧡

[@paulagoynes]

Thanks for this video. I’m out of Aussie floetrol so I had made up my mind I wasn’t buying anymore in order to save money. I have the wood conditioner so I’m going to give this a try. Thanks again.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You go girl! 💜💛I swear by it. I have 1/2 liter AU sitting on my shelf in favor of this recipe, it works with my other stuff perfectly!

[@rachelalcina7954]

loving it... thanks for these videos

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

My pleasure! 💕Glad you like them and hope they help!

[@debbieweicht3139]

Thank you so very much! Looking forward to continue learning from you!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Well thank YOU and I hope to lend a hand!💕

[@AmysAcrylicArtistry]

Great video Louise! I just bought 1L of Aussie floetrol! I am going to keep your video in mind and try this out for sure! I'll be looking for that pre-stain wood conditioner next time I'm out! Thanks so much for sharing!!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You bet Amy and thank you💙😘. For what I’m doing and how I am blooming these, I would match the Ausy floetrol with the American floetrol any day.

[@carolmack3232]

Thank you so much! I have watched so many videos on fluid art since falling in love with it in August of last year. Putting a face with a name really hit on this one as I have several of yours saved to refer back on. I was able to get everything for it together last week. I had mixed it together and am using it on coasters that I am making for my sons home bar for his birthday. The 1st few I made I have yet to have anything, and that includes silicone which I am not a total fan of, work like this did. So far I haven't had a keeper yet with the coasters but that is "user" error lol. The cells I get with this recipe are CRAZY AWESOME! Again thank you so very much for taking the time out to make this video. ❤

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you💙💙, this was a case of I was going to be mixing cell activator anyway, so I might as well just video it and share it with people. I don’t use silicone at all, the recipes I share work, and you may need to adjust to slightly depending on your environment.

[@barbaradeerfield2204]

Thank you for you information, I just picked up some min wax

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You’re welcome Barbara, I wish you success!

[@quesnelgirl]

Great recycling!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you so much for being here and leaving your comment💙

[@larrypelfrey5103]

Thank you so much for the information. It’ll be very helpful and maybe I can start getting some cells.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@larrypelfrey5103 thank you and good luck!!🧡

[@sherischmick]

Such a great idea just putting something to strain on the bottle😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Oh, the Floetrol, yes, easy peasy!

[@susantofteland7851]

Great timing for me. Your video was really helpful. I just ordered Minwax prestain and I wasn’t sure about mixing it in. Thank you

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Awesome, isn’t it cool when you open up to a need and get a response, synchronistic!

[@MariaWalker-qo3vi]

I’m only 4:24 mins in and I already 👍’d this and I already know that this my favorite video on cell activator by far! I love your practical approach and demo. THANK YOU! (Oh and new sub too❤)

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you so much, 😘Maria for your kind words and feedback and Welcome. I literally made this video off the cuff two years ago, that’s why it’s a little bit older looking 😅 I’m glad you’re here, be sure to check out my playlist where I have different creations, broken down by category and often complete tutorials within each of those categories. Enjoy and welcome.🧡

[@SamanthaDuncan-y5n]

Super superstar. Thank you for this recipe Louise🎉

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@SamanthaDuncan-y5n thank you so much “S” 😘I hope you have a great success with this, I swear by this recipe. And many others have commented on how good it’s made their blooms.!

[@Mike-r3j3s]

thank you so much for being so detailed with everything :) I'm so excited to try this now with all the proper instructions. Carrie

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@Mike-r3j3s thank you for being here, 😘Carrie. Be patient with yourself as the Bloom technique can be tricky as it has three components, the pillow, the pouring medium with paints and the cell activator. Sometimes it looks easier than it really is, but the creation process is still fun nonetheless and seeing continuous improvement is always the goal. Thank you for being here and your support.🧡

[@carey5155]

Hi Louise, thank you so much for your very informative and short videos. U r concise and to the point, and I appreciate it very much. One thing I am curious about. You use two cell activators, a black AND a white. I have never seen that b4, and am wondering why you do that. I have been copying you, and loving the results. It's just when someone asks me why I do it, I answer, "beats me. I do it because Louise does it". Could you pls explain why u use both black & white cell activators and how u discovered that 2 are better than one. I find it fascinating. Thank you for so much, Carey McKay

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@carey5155 using the two different cell activators provides two different colored results in the cells. It’s that simple. Maybe try creating two different items with only one cell activity each and see what the differences are. Also, if you reverse the order, it changes the outcome as well. I have a video on that too. I’ll try to link if I can find it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmG8epuFmpiGpqMsi=ddmGwoF7P3aWqYom

[@carey5155]

​@LouiseMcKayArt Thank you for your reply, Louise. I get now why I, too, like the 2 different colored CAs. Checking out the video u linked on CA order. 😊👍

[@lydiaveldhuizen3157]

Thank you Louise. Gone give it a try.❤

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Great, you only need a small amount when you’re applying it to your bloom! Good luck🧡

[@CathArtistry]

Very helpful, Louise.Thank you! ❣

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks Cathy💕

[@cherylhopkins5110]

Awesome info Louise - thanks for sharing! Why spend a fortune on aussie Floetrol and shipping when your CA works beautifully!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Good question! 💕That’s what I asked too!

[@rae3632]

Thank you! I can’t wait to try this.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Rae, my fingers are crossed for you. Bear in mind that I use the cell activator with my Pouring, Medium, Recipe, and my pillow paint, the multi pro, and I know they work together like a champ. It took me a while to find a combination, but I swear by it.

[@lizzijansen6527]

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Certainly, thanks for watching♥️

[@WombatWanders-hg8pk]

Best recipe and easy to follow, great results!!! Thank you ❤

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks so much😘, I’ve gotten lots of great feedback, glad it helps!

[@mariannesantini8878]

Thank you so much for sharing!! You’re awesome!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you so much, 😘Marianne, you’ve been omnipresent💙

[@OAKbyBetina]

Fantastic tutorial. Thank you 😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks Betty, putting’ on my teacher clothes, well, ex- military instructional…

[@patriciahogg5763]

Thanks!!! You have encouraged me to experiment further!! 😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

That’s the best, 😉let me know if you have any questions!

[@RobertoFasciano]

I really like thiswork. Well done.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you! 😘This is just a recipe for the cell activator, if you like this check out some of my recent tutorials where I put into practice this component!!

[@SherisFluidArtCorner]

It does work great like that

[@PatsyPatch]

Thank you for this!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you, Patsy, 😘I hope this helps you out. Let me know if you have any questions.💙

[@christiecarlsen6486]

Just a quick question.....does the prestain react to resin? I resin all my paintings and was wondering if you resin your tile pieces and if it works well together

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

No, I resin all my coasters with no problem. I wipe the coasters before resining with a paper towel spritzed with alcohol, then resin. Here’s a link to how I resin my coasters if you like. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmXYYqRjpbtkpZo I’ve since stopped fully covering the back and just tape the sides-hope this helps! Also, I’ve resined plenty of canvas paintings, no problems!

[@sfreeman8035]

Thanks Louise!!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You’re welcome, I hope it’s helped and sorry for the late response.😊

[@bobbiecollins489]

What is the shelf life of the cell activator when put in the small container you are using and putting on the proper lid?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Bobbie, I’ve used my American social select. The recipe is much is three months after its initial creation. Just stirred up Well and it’s good to go.

[@bonnierobbins3818]

Hi Louise. I’m new to this fluid art but so excited to work with it. I have been experimenting with different techniques. I’m a Canadian senior citizen who loves to craft. I’ve watched dozens of videos so have several opinions. I’m working on 4” tiles. Getting decent result except for blooms. I made your cell activator but didn’t have wood conditioner. I tried a varnish. No cells or very tiny ones. Is this because I used the varnish. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Love to to the point dir3ctions. Thank you.

[@bonnierobbins3818]

I tried a bloom with the mixture with the varathane. When added to the bloom it looks like it’s curdled. I was able to remove all the white. On my way to the hardware store for the MinWax wood conditioner. Hopefully I get better results.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Bonnie and welcome!😘 yeah logic might tell you that you can substitute varnish out for the pre-stained wood conditioner, but the varnish will not work. You’re better off just getting the varnish out and going with Floetrol and paint trying that just for cell activator but the pre-stain actually helps because it’s oil based and it almost works like oil and vinegar with the paints and when you lay it down and cell activator, it works just like that with your other colors.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Make sure you get the red can which is oil based wood pre-stain conditioner

[@Gennytrot]

Tks Louise for sharing this recipe! Since this video is dated back in 2022, are you still using this CA or you completely switched to Aussie Floetrol? This Minwax seems oily so I was wondering if this makes more complicated to clean a coaster or any painting before varnishing or resining it?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@Gennytrot Genny, yes, I still use my American Floetrol cell activator but like I see the videos I have received so much Australian or have so much left over. I’m almost finished with it all and I will be going back to my American. They to me are interchangeable work nearly the same. And as far as clean up before I resin all I use is a paper towel sprayed with alcohol to clean up and it’s not messy at all. When they dry, they dry with no oily look or feel. Have never had a problem with resin ever.

[@JimKinman-b9t]

Thank you

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You’re welcome Jim🩵

[@karenavery3672]

I use a pipette to put in the wood conditioner.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Great idea, 😘Karen, but I’m probably gonna stick to my method since I know how it works!

[@trishsiwierka1163]

Thank you for your assistance! It works!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks so much Trish🧡, I sweat by it!

[@isabelladavis1363]

Thanks so much

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you, 😘Isabelle for being here and you’re welcome💙

[@yolandacoleman3027]

If you use the wood conditioner do you have to wash the coaster before resin? I know if I use silicone I have to get that all off

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Yolanda, I always wash my coasters anyway because of oils from my hands could affect resining. But I'd say yes since it is oil based.

[@SherisFluidArtCorner]

When you go to wipe your peice down, do you have to wash them with Dawn? if you use the Minwax stain conditioner?… Because I don’t have to do that I just use alcohol wipes when I use Australian flo

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@SherisFluidArtCorner I never need to wash with Dawne, and I always spritz a paper towel with alcohol and wipe them down. Never had a problem with void spots and the resin.

[@SherisFluidArtCorner]

@@LouiseMcKayArt that’s so good to know totally doing this thank you🙌🏼

[@arlenelouro3976]

Quick question about your prestaining conditioner. Is it oil-based or is it non? I know that there's two types. Thanks

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Oil based

[@JoanSmith-xr8bo]

Thank you for all your experiments you do for all of us. With the min wax being oil based, how do you prepare your art for varnishing?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@JoanSmith-xr8bo thank you Joan, all creations I spritz a paper towel with some alcohol and wipe it down to remove mostly oil from my hands. I’ve never had a problem with the Minwax priest, causing me any trouble.

[@karenhaywood5736]

Thank you for sharing this 🎉 😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Certainly, hope it helps!

[@rosolinotrapani8962]

Grazie tante Louise 🙏

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Prego Rosolino!💕

[@Skt4me]

Just watching this now…how long does mixed up CA last? As always, thanks! You are The GOAT!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I think I mentioned in some videos that I’ve used American floetr CA as old as three months. I would run out of it before it got too old.

[@mywifetheartist]

Great video. Do you think this works just as good as Australian Floetrol?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Well…hmmm, it’s different. For me I’d say the AU recipe lends itself to more lacing and varied cells. The American seems to create more and rounder cells, less lacing. Now, this is based in my methods, how much, placement, blow… That’s what I see. So to answer your question, I’ll say yes and I’ll be using this a lot more going forward.

[@dianemelton6475]

I’m new on your channel. When you let it drip off the stick at the end it’s really hard to see if it leaves a trace, goes straight in, etc… because of the white, white on the stick the white background. 😂 Can you please let me know which it does, please.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Welcome! Typically I shoot for pour into tub in a little mound that sinks straight in.

[@myriamklein6673]

I think that if Louise had only tilted the container and not right under the light we would have been able to see. I too blanked out. Thank you, enjoyed the video and appreciate the recipe

[@Mara-pw2jm]

Hi, thank you! have you tried using silicone oil instead of MinWax Wood conditioner? I am very sensitive to chemicals. thanks

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Mara, 😘no, I have not used silicone, although there is nothing stopping you from trying it! It might be an alternative!!

[@lmcbride7758]

Thanks! Is the pre stain wood conditioner water base or oil base? Thanks,

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks, it’s oil based, the red can🎈

[@lmcbride7758]

@@LouiseMcKayArt Thank you. The cans have new labeling now so I wanted to verify before purchasing. Love your videos and I can’t wait to start making my own designs.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@lmcbride7758 best wishes🧡

[@michellebisesi4498]

Does the wood product have to be specific. If it’s an oil base, could you use other oils?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I have only used pre-stain wood conditioner oil-based. I don’t know about other oils, that’s where you get the chance to experiment.😀

[@craftitkiwi]

Is the MinWax Wood Conditioner a varnish? If so can any varnish be used if not available in my country?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@craftitkiwino, the wood conditioner is not a varnish, it is intended for use as a pre-conditioner for wood, applying it to the wood before staining so that the stain will absorb evenly. I don’t think you could use it as a varnish type component for a cell activator. I’ve never tried any other types of varnish, but I think you could give it a shot. If you are down under as your name implies, you should be able to get Australian floetrol

[@craftitkiwi]

@LouiseMcKayArt thanks for your reply! Yes Floetrol is readily available here in NZ but do you mean I replace the MinWax Conditioner with more Floetrol or is there another alternative?

[@shaylyn1020]

Thank you for this! I am very curious how you came by using the pre stain in your mix!?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you Shailyn, 😘honestly, I’ve seen other artists use it, but without any kind of real precise measurements. So I decided to put a formula to the recipe recipe. It took me a few tries to get it where it works well, and is the right consistency.

[@bluegarlic733]

I'm wondering , I have tried to make gold CA (Amsterdam) using same recipe, but it's not working. How would you adjust?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I have no idea, I don’t know what you’re doing besides using this recipe. I have used Atelier Rich Gold that has worked for me. I’ve never tried using Amsterdam‘s gold. Is Amsterdam’s gold an opaque color, because I do know an opaque is what you want to try to make your CA with.

[@bluegarlic733]

@@LouiseMcKayArt I'm not sure, I think so, but I'll have to check fir sure.

[@bluegarlic733]

@@LouiseMcKayArt It's semi, half /half. I guess that's the reason. Thank you.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@bluegarlic733 maybe…

[@enidleak]

Thank you so much for your help.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You’re welcome Enid! 💕glad you checked it out and thanks for the comment. This CA works great, wish you great results!

[@bobbiecollins489]

What is the shelf life of the cell activator that you just mixed up with proper lid of course?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I’ve used it as much as 3 months later. There are actually a few videos a few months back where I pulled out the cell activator and showed the cap with a date on top. I think the creations were from December or January and I was showing a creation batch from September. But usually, I will use it up before I ever reach expiration. Don’t believe all of that hype you have to use it up in three days, it’s not true, even with Australia n, At least in my experience

[@teresawhalen-certifiedsten9203]

Quick question: what kind of net/screen do you use over the floetrol lid? Thank you.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@teresawhalen-certifiedsten9203 hi Teresa, I use a cut up piece of women’s nylons rubber banded on the top

[@LesliePowell-l8j]

Does it have to be Amsterdam or can I use Master's Touch thick body for the cell activator?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Leslie, 😘and welcome, I don’t know about masters touch. I do know that Tri-Art also is another cell activator you can try. I always tell people that asked me questions. I don’t know the answer to, just try it and see what happens.🤔

[@sherilynwhelan781]

Do you have to stir, or can you shake? Or would that make too many bubbles? Thanks

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I always stir, however, I don’t think shaking would ever be a problem for the cell activator only.

[@susanbrocksmith4255]

Is the min wax for oil based stains? I can’t find the exact can of pre stain

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@susanbrocksmith4255 yes, it is pre-stain and in the red can pre-stain wood conditioner is what it should say on the can

[@susanbrocksmith4255]

@@LouiseMcKayArt yes it did but I noticed on your can it didn’t say oil based where mine did. Hopefully I got the right one

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@susanbrocksmith4255 it’s oil based

[@deenaminyard3788]

Curious! Do you make bigger batches of the cell activator? Is cell activator the same as the glidden and floetrol mix? I'm definitely confused, right?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Deena, I think I just answered you on another post, but it IS confusing because there are multiple parts of it that you have to understand. I don’t make big batches of cell activator, maybe 25 g at the largest because it lasts a while, I’ll have select up to three months, so I don’t need to make a big batch of it. To explain a little bit about… oh my yes. And the Bloom technique you have the pillow, which is the first paint down. I often use multi pro 47-3110 or Glidden 6011N. Then you have your medium that you mix with your paints. I have a pouring medium video 140. Then on top of that is your cell activator last color down And I have a video 141 if you wanna see how I make it. The Bloom Tech is very involved because there are three parts to it and it’s a little bit technical because you have to have all of your consistencies of your paints correct. I hope this helps.🧡

[@deenaminyard3788]

@@LouiseMcKayArt Gotcha

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@deenaminyard3788 good! I remember when I first started out🤪

[@dawnleever4832]

I went and bought this recipe and gonna try it !❤ Thank you ! Can you use this for blooms as well?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Awesome and absolutely!

[@marieArtisExpressio]

Thank you so much Louise for sharing your recipe! ❤ I would like to know if the Minwax pre-stain you use is water-based?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you Marie🧡, it’s oil based, red can!

[@marieArtisExpressio]

Thanks to you I just started a few months ago! It’s always a pleasure watching your video! 💕

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@marieArtisExpressio thanks, you’ll love it and grow in many ways!!🧡

[@patriciamora2915]

Do you have to put minwax? What does it do?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

For this recipe, yes, the minwax is essential to help in cell creation and stability.

[@elaineengle6353]

Thank you for your guidance on this. It was very helpful and I have had success in the coasters I've poured.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

That is the best! 💕Thank you Elaine I think I will pin your post comment!

[@g8rmomof2]

I live in South Florida where it’s too hot to resin in the garage. I can’t work indoors with resin because my hubby is very allergic to any odors. What do you suggest?

[@valerieaustinart]

Does this have to be freshly made or can it be stored?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I’ve used it as long as three months old

[@anjanowackadeklopp761]

Thank you, very helpful.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks Anja, 😘glad this was helpful!😁

[@MaryPatLevitt]

Thank you. I really enjoy you!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks so much Mary!💕

[@kellyangus7128]

Hi Louise! Love your tutorials; you are so very helpful :) Is the minwax pre-stain wood conditioner oil based or water based?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Kelly, 😘thank you, it’s the red can, oil based

[@SamanthaDuncan-y5n]

Sooooo helpful 😊 thank you very much

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank you, Samantha🧡, this recipe works like a champ, just make sure that you’re using correct pouring, medium, and the right recipe for this whole bloom technique.

[@maggiekehoe4614]

Sorry, I just read through more comments and realized the answer to my first question. :/ I am curious about the change in the MinWax pre-stain recipe and if you have used the new formula. I’m thinking probably no as the quantity is very small for each batch and one can should last years. FYI, I am in a suburb of Raleigh NC

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

I wasn’t aware of a change in the Minwax pre-stain recipe, I have not used the new formula I don’t think. I could put a damper on the party lol. Cool I live in Asheville so we’re four hours apart.

[@loricleary4473]

Thank you Louise...im going to givee your recipe a try💕. One question ...how long will it last in a sealed container??

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Lori, 🧡idk, never tested longevity. but I’ve used it as much as 3 months later

[@loricleary4473]

@@LouiseMcKayArt Thanks Louise... Some say it doesn't last long but I certainly don't mix up fresh CA every time I paint... So that's a good thing 😊

[@user-uj9cy2wj1j]

Louise, would water based pre stain minwax work? Thanks for the recipe and demonstration. You ROCK 🪨!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks V, I doubt it, because I think the fact that is oil-based it repels the paint which leads to the cells, I think the water-based varnish, which is blend in, not giving me effect.

[@user-uj9cy2wj1j]

@@LouiseMcKayArt Thanks for the reply. I have what you use, I will try your recipe today 😉.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@user-uj9cy2wj1j awesome Vicki, let me know how it works. I’ve had plenty of people say it works great for them so I trust it’ll be fine for you too. It definitely works for me and remember all of your consistencies need to be a little bit different from each other between the pillow, paints and cell activator. From thickest in the pillow to thinnest in the CA.

[@SusanMMattei]

Thank you 😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thank YOU!💕

[@yefaircity]

WHat is the pre stain wood conditioner ? Is it water based ?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Prestain wood conditioner is a Min Wax product, oil based, red can. The intent of the pre stain is to prepare wood prior to staining, but in my cell activator it acts as an additive and assists in cell development.

[@yefaircity]

@@LouiseMcKayArt Thank you , What purpose does the floetrol serve in the process . Excuse my ignorance ..

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@yefaircity the Floetrol also helps with the creation of cells, but with the oil based pre stain wood conditioner, acts the two together act like an oil and vinegar component, which helps with promote even more cells. Questions are good no worries.

[@rosolinotrapani8962]

Buongiorno Louise!vorrei chiederle: quando prepara i colori, aggiunge anche il minwax? buona Domenica 🙏

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

grazie, la cera minuta si trova solo nell'attivatore cellulare applicato e non negli altri colori applicati prima.

[@JamieMillen]

Why do you add pre stain?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

It causes an ‘oil and vinegar’ reaction to help with cells.

[@artfulbarb5775]

Hi, Louise. Love your videos. Been following you for a couple of years. Quick question. The wood conditioner with the red label is oul based, not water based. I wanted to make sure that's the correct can. Thanks.

[@artfulbarb5775]

Nevermind. Just saw in one of your replies that oil based is correct. 😊

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Barb, yes, red label is oil based. I know you might hear that oil based does not work with water-based acrylics, but what happens is with the cell activator is the oil based pre-stain almost acts like oil with vinegar, and that helps with the cells in their cell creation when you put it down.

[@artfulbarb5775]

@@LouiseMcKayArt I didn't think of it in that exact way, but I figured oil based was the "secret sauce" in the cell activator.

[@jenmichigan7470]

Thank you so much for sharing your recipe!!! One question, is the pre stain oil base or water base? There were both I wasn’t sure if it made a difference.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Thanks for watching its oil based

[@maggiekehoe4614]

Your MinWax Pre-Stain looks like a varnish in the can. The one I bought at Lowe’s is milky white, doesn’t have a high odor and appears to have the same consistency. My can has a different appearing label. I have two questions: - What was in the MinWax pre-stain that made you try it? - Are you still using the smelly varnish looking pre-stain?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

The Minwax pre-stain wood conditioner does look like varnish and the one I use is in the red can and it is oil-based. I used it because I’ve seen other people use it but here in my recipe I call out specifically what the recipe is to follow. And yes, I still use this recipe when I’m using my American Floetrol recipe, just like it states in the video. I alternate also between the American flow cell activator recipe and Australian Floetrol Ca I bought some and want to use it up.

[@maggiekehoe4614]

Love your channel and have just promoted it in Pouring Nation, a group started by David Vorhees who runs the Left Brained Artist channel

[@kathibecker5351]

​@@maggiekehoe4614-Hi Maggie. I'm a Pouring Nation member too and have been reading your posts when I can. Your art is really 😍 due to a fairly serious health issue I can't respond or paint very often, so glad you're promoting LBA.

[@kristinb6605]

I read in comments that you resin your work so my question is: Do you do anything special to clean/prep after using the minwax ca? Using silicone is a nightmare to clean prior to resin and I'm always having to sand/reapply my resin coat due to the oil. Thank you!

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Kristen, that should’ve been answered in a video you might’ve seen where I do show and tell about coaster resin prepping, and finishing. I spritzer paper towel with alcohol and wipe the coasters tops and sides down. I’ve never had a problem with poor resin coverage.

[@magyarka1]

Thank you !

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

You’re welcome, it works great, hope for your success!!

[@sparks1224]

Is the minwax oil-based? Amazon just sent a can that looks slightly different but says it’s oil-based pre-stain wood conditioner.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Yes it’s oil based, the smell is the dead giveaway

[@sparks1224]

Thx. They changed their label just enough to confuse me. 🥴🙂

[@MichelleZepp-bd2cx]

Hi Louise, is the Minwax wood conditioner, oil paints or not?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

The CA has the minwax wood conditioner, oil, red can. PM has the minwax gloss varnish with Valspar 833124 Two different things

[@kaccreatedit]

What made you use/try the pre stain? Have you tried silicone oil?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi Kelly, I’ve seen other use it in vague recipes so I wanted you to know try getting a measurable recipe. Never tried silicone in a ca recipe.

[@michellebisesi4498]

Once you mix a batch, how long does it last

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@michellebisesi4498 I nice small batches, depends on the paint, for me up to 1-2 weeks but the longer I’ll have to adjust for consistency to get it supple again. As long as the consistent is good, In definitely

[@michellebisesi4498]

@@LouiseMcKayArt thank you so much. I’ve learned so much already.

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

@@michellebisesi4498 spread the word, share with friends, help me grow too!😉

[@acrylicpoursgalore6843]

Love this - soooooo helpful, thank you! Question - the black you put on top of the white cell activator in your pours... is that mixed like a cell activator too, or is it the regular mix like other paints in your blooms?

[@LouiseMcKayArt]

Hi, I’m glad it’s helpful. Whenever I say I’m putting down cell activator, everything that’s coming after that is cell activator whether I put the white down first or the black or even another color. A clue is me putting down a drip of it the other colors I always drizzle. Pillow first, colors, then the cell activator

[@acrylicpoursgalore6843]

@@LouiseMcKayArt that’s very helpful- much appreciated!!!! ❤️