How to Make Paint in Ark: A Colorful Journey Through Survival and Creativity

In the vast and unpredictable world of Ark: Survival Evolved, survival is not just about building shelters and taming dinosaurs. It’s also about expressing your creativity and making your mark on the world. One of the most exciting ways to do this is by creating and using paint. Whether you’re looking to customize your structures, your gear, or even your dinosaurs, paint is an essential tool in your survival arsenal. In this article, we’ll explore the various methods of making paint in Ark, the resources you’ll need, and some creative ways to use it.

Understanding the Basics: What is Paint in Ark?

Before diving into the process of making paint, it’s important to understand what paint is in the context of Ark. Paint is a consumable item that allows players to change the color of various objects, including structures, weapons, armor, and even dinosaurs. It comes in a variety of colors, and players can mix different pigments to create custom shades.

Gathering the Necessary Resources

To make paint in Ark, you’ll need to gather a few key resources. These resources can be found throughout the game world, and some may require specific tools or techniques to obtain.

1. Charcoal: The Foundation of Paint

Charcoal is a fundamental resource in Ark, and it’s essential for making paint. You can obtain charcoal by burning wood in a campfire, industrial forge, or any other fire source. Charcoal is used to create the base of the paint, so make sure you have a steady supply.

2. Berries: The Source of Pigments

Berries are the primary source of pigments in Ark. Different types of berries will yield different colors when used to make paint. Here are some of the most common berries and the colors they produce:

• Amarberry: Red
• Azulberry: Blue
• Tintoberry: Yellow
• Narcoberry: Green
• Mejoberry: Purple
• Stimberry: Orange

To gather berries, you can either harvest them directly from bushes or use a dinosaur like a Trike or a Brontosaurus to collect them more efficiently.

3. Waterskin or Water Jar: Mixing the Paint

Once you have your charcoal and berries, you’ll need a way to mix them into paint. This is where a waterskin or water jar comes in. You can craft a waterskin using hide and fiber, while a water jar requires clay and thatch. Fill your waterskin or jar with water from a river, lake, or other water source, and you’re ready to start mixing.

Crafting Paint: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have all the necessary resources, it’s time to craft your paint. Follow these steps to create your first batch of paint in Ark.

Step 1: Create a Mortar and Pestle

The mortar and pestle is the primary tool used for crafting paint in Ark. To create one, you’ll need the following resources:

• Stone: 20
• Flint: 20
• Wood: 10

Once you have these resources, open your inventory and craft the mortar and pestle. This tool will allow you to grind berries into pigments and mix them with charcoal and water to create paint.

Step 2: Grind Berries into Pigments

Place the mortar and pestle in your inventory and open its interface. Add the berries you want to use for your paint. Each type of berry will produce a different pigment color. For example, if you want red paint, add Amarberries to the mortar and pestle.

Grind the berries by selecting the “Grind” option. This will convert the berries into pigments, which are the colored powders used to make paint.

Step 3: Mix Pigments with Charcoal and Water

Once you have your pigments, it’s time to mix them with charcoal and water to create paint. Add the following items to the mortar and pestle:

• Pigments: The ground berries
• Charcoal: 1 unit
• Water: 1 unit (from your waterskin or water jar)

Select the “Craft” option to mix these ingredients together. The result will be a paintbrush filled with the color of your choice.

Step 4: Apply Your Paint

With your paintbrush in hand, you’re ready to start painting! Approach the object you want to paint and use the paintbrush to apply the color. You can paint structures, weapons, armor, and even dinosaurs. Experiment with different colors and combinations to create unique designs that reflect your personal style.

Advanced Techniques: Mixing Colors and Creating Custom Shades

While the basic paint colors are great, you can take your creativity to the next level by mixing different pigments to create custom shades. Here’s how:

1. Experiment with Different Berry Combinations

By mixing different types of berries, you can create a wide range of colors. For example, combining Amarberries (red) and Azulberries (blue) will produce a purple shade, while mixing Tintoberries (yellow) and Azulberries (blue) will give you green.

2. Adjust the Ratio of Pigments

The amount of each pigment you use will affect the final color. For example, using more Amarberries than Azulberries will result in a reddish-purple, while using more Azulberries will give you a bluish-purple. Experiment with different ratios to achieve the exact shade you want.

3. Use Multiple Layers

If you’re not satisfied with the color after the first application, you can apply multiple layers of paint to achieve a deeper or more vibrant hue. This technique is especially useful when painting large structures or creating intricate designs.

Creative Uses for Paint in Ark

Now that you know how to make paint, let’s explore some creative ways to use it in your Ark adventures.

1. Customize Your Base

One of the most popular uses for paint is customizing your base. Whether you’re building a small hut or a massive fortress, paint allows you to add a personal touch to your structures. Use different colors to create patterns, murals, or even camouflage your base to blend in with the environment.

2. Personalize Your Gear

Your weapons and armor are essential tools for survival, but they don’t have to be boring. Use paint to customize your gear and make it stand out. Whether you want a sleek black sword or a brightly colored shield, the possibilities are endless.

3. Decorate Your Dinosaurs

Taming dinosaurs is a big part of Ark, and painting them is a fun way to make them unique. Use paint to give your dinosaurs distinctive markings, patterns, or even full-body color changes. This not only makes them easier to identify but also adds a touch of personality to your tamed creatures.

4. Create Art and Signage

If you’re feeling particularly artistic, you can use paint to create art or signage within the game. Whether you’re making a welcome sign for your base or creating a mural that tells a story, paint allows you to express your creativity in a tangible way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I paint any object in Ark?

A: While you can paint many objects in Ark, not everything is paintable. Structures, weapons, armor, and dinosaurs are the most common items that can be painted. Some objects, like rocks or trees, cannot be painted.

Q2: How do I remove paint from an object?

A: To remove paint from an object, you can use a Paintbrush with no paint loaded. Simply select the “Remove Paint” option and apply it to the painted object. This will return the object to its original color.

Q3: Can I mix paint colors directly on an object?

A: Yes, you can mix paint colors directly on an object by applying different colors in layers. The final color will be a blend of the applied colors, allowing you to create custom shades and effects.

Q4: Are there any limitations to painting dinosaurs?

A: While you can paint dinosaurs, there are some limitations. Some dinosaurs have specific areas that cannot be painted, and the paint may not always appear as expected due to the dinosaur’s texture. Experimentation is key to achieving the desired look.

Q5: Can I trade or sell painted items?

A: Yes, you can trade or sell painted items just like any other item in Ark. Painted items retain their color when traded or sold, so you can share your creations with other players.

In conclusion, making paint in Ark is a rewarding process that allows you to add a personal touch to your survival experience. Whether you’re customizing your base, personalizing your gear, or decorating your dinosaurs, paint opens up a world of creative possibilities. So gather your resources, fire up your mortar and pestle, and start painting your way through the world of Ark!