Creating an Industrial Rust Effect with Alchemy’s Ocean

At Fusion Mineral Paint, creativity knows no bounds — and when we introduced Ocean from our new Alchemy Collection, we couldn’t wait to dive into a bold project that would show just how transformative colour can be. Today, Jennylyn Pringle, creator of Fusion Mineral Paint, takes us behind the scenes of an incredible filing cabinet makeover — turning an ordinary piece into show-stopping piece with an industrial rust effect with Alchemy’s Ocean.

Follow along and get inspired to unleash your inner alchemist with this rich, vibrant hue. Check out this transformation:

Prepping the Piece

Every great makeover starts with good prep! Filing cabinets (the ones used here are plastic by IKEA!) often have slick surfaces. To ensure proper adhesion, Jennylyn wiped everything down with our TSP Alternative, removing any grease or dirt. A clean surface is key for achieving that flawless finish Fusion is known for.

She chose a 10cm Staalmeester Roller — the perfect tool for large, flat surfaces, giving the piece a smooth, even coat without the worry of brush strokes. Thanks to the lint-free quality of the roller, the paint glided beautifully, helping Ocean’s bold pigmentation shine.

Pro Tip: If you notice your roller sliding or leaving too much texture, you may have too much paint loaded. Lightly offload the excess before applying for that flawless Fusion finish!

Painting with Ocean

Alchemy By Fusion is slightly thicker than our classic formula, offering incredible coverage and flexibility. Whether you’re after a sleek, smooth coat or a bit of textured character, this paint can do it all.

The first coat might feel a little transparent (especially over slick surfaces), but don’t worry — the second coat brings everything together for that stunning, solid look Fusion fans love.

Jennylyn also used the Staalmeester One Series Brush for tight spots and edges, blending brushwork with rolling techniques to maintain that smooth-as-metal appearance.

Adding the Industrial Rust Effect with Alchemy’s Ocean

With two coats of Ocean beautifully applied, it was time to bring out the industrial charm.
To transform the modern filing cabinet into a vintage, rusted treasure, Jennylyn used a mix of Alchemy Paint colours.

The technique? A little bit of play and a whole lot of creativity:

• Dabbing on the mixed colours to mimic the organic, unpredictable look of real rust.

• Lightly misting the surface with water around the hardware to create the drips and faux rust aged look.

• Using a hair dryer to speed-dry areas for natural-looking cracks and separation.

The result was a layered, weathered finish full of character — the perfect balance of beauty and grunge.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with how much water or paint you use. Different amounts create different levels of blending — no two spots will look exactly alike, just like real patina!

Finishing Touches: Metallics and Aging Wax

To complete the look, Jennylyn painted the hardware using Fusion’s Metallic Bronze — a gorgeous shade filled with real mica pigments for that extra shimmer.

Finally, an Aging Wax was lightly brushed over the entire piece to enhance the depth, blend the rust tones, and give the cabinet an authentically timeworn feel. 

The Final Reveal – Industrial Rust Effect with Alchemy’s Ocean

What started as two plain filing cabinets transformed into a bold, vibrant table base — the centrepiece of a creative art room setup.

Ocean brought the perfect pop of colour, while the rust effect added an undeniable industrial edge.

With a little imagination, some Fusion favourites, and a few fun techniques, this project proves just how easy it is to turn something ordinary into something extraordinary.

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Ready to create your own industrial masterpiece?
Grab Ocean from our Alchemy Collection — and don’t forget your TSP Alternative, Staalmeester tools, and a little creative spirit. The possibilities are endless when you unleash your creativity.