Mixed media art is all about blending materials, textures, and techniques to create visually rich and expressive pieces. Whether you're layering acrylics with collage elements or experimenting with texture, the tools you use can make all the difference. One of the most versatile tools you can add to your artist kit is a Princeton Catalyst Tool.

What Are Catalyst Tools?

Catalyst Wedges, Blades, Contours, and Mini-Blades are innovative painting tools designed for artists to have a direct interaction with their art. Unlike traditional brushes, they’re made from flexible silicone that allows for bold, sweeping gestures, precise scraping, and textural effects. These tools are not only durable and easy to clean, but also food-safe and heat-resistant, making them incredibly versatile both in and out of the studio.

The Wedges come in a variety of shapes, each with unique edges that can be used for spreading, dragging, scoring, and carving through paint or mediums. Blades are more brush-like in design, mounted on wooden handles for a familiar grip, but with the same flexible silicone tips that can handle thick applications of acrylic paint, gels, plaster, and more.

How to Use Catalyst Tools in Mixed Media Art

Mixed media often involves working with materials that traditional brushes can’t handle—heavy body acrylics, gels, texture pastes, or even encaustics. Catalyst tools are built for this kind of work. Their strength lies in their ability to manipulate thick media while maintaining precise control over movement and texture. Here are a few ways you can use the Catalyst Tools in your pieces:

1. Experiment with texture – Load up your canvas with acrylic paint or other medium, then use a wedge to create patterns or lines. Notice how different edge shapes produce different results.

Art by Tawnie Jeanne Terry with a Catalyst Wedge No 4

Art by Hillary B Sorrentino with a Catalyst Wedge No 2

2. Layer and reveal – Apply multiple layers of paint in varying colors, then use a blade or wedge to scrape and carve back through them. This will reveal layers beneath and add depth to your piece.

Wedge No 6 and art by Courtney Senior

3. Use with collage – Catalyst tools can help press down collage elements without tearing or warping paper, and they’re excellent for applying gel medium underneath or on top.

Art by Elizabeth St. Hilaire

4. Push Heavy-Bodied Paints – Catalyst Tools excel at handling thick, heavy-bodied paints. Apply them thickly, then use the wedge to spread, press, or carve into the paint. The flexible silicone gives you control while maintaining the paint’s body and texture—perfect for expressive, impasto-style work.

Art by Hillary B Sorrentino with a Catalyst Wedge No 2

5. Apply Plaster – One of the lesser-known uses of Catalyst tools is for applying plaster to art surfaces. Whether you're creating a textured background or sculptural detail, the strength and flexibility of Catalyst Wedges and Blades allow for smooth application and effortless shaping.

Art by Erica Helder with a Catalyst Blade No 1

6. Abstract Ink Art – Catalyst Blades are excellent for guiding and manipulating ink across non-absorbent surfaces like primed canvas. Use the tool’s edge to push, smear, or drag ink into fluid, abstract shapes.

Art by Emily Newman with a Catalyst Wedge No 6

7. Organic Shapes – Their flexibility, because they’re made with silicone, also makes them ideal for creating organic, flowing marks that brushes can’t achieve.

Art by Nicole (theenchantedeasel) with a Catalyst Wedge No 6

8. Textures in Ceramics – This is technically not mixed media but we like to mention that our Catalyst Tools can be used in ceramics too! They’re perfect for adding textures and lines to pieces. The flat ones (non-tooth edges) are great for making plates and smoothing. Watch artist Andrea Horyn use Catalyst Tools in her pieces

Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey, Catalyst Tools open a world of artistic possibilities. They allow you to engage with your materials in a hands-on, expressive way. With their durability and versatility, they’re tools you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.