Neon glow at the hours of darkness material paint opens up a blinding world of potentialities for inventive expression. Think about reworking extraordinary materials into fascinating, luminous masterpieces that shimmer and glow beneath the precise mild. This versatile paint, accessible in numerous sorts and finishes, means that you can deliver out your inside artist and craft distinctive items. From vibrant murals to intricate designs, the glow-in-the-dark impact provides an electrifying contact to any mission.
This information dives deep into all the pieces it’s essential learn about this superb medium.
This paint boasts a variety of functions, from easy brush strokes to intricate stencils. Understanding the differing types, their properties, and software strategies will empower you to realize beautiful outcomes. We’ll discover the security precautions for working with this fascinating materials, offering you with the instruments to work safely and confidently. Moreover, we’ll cowl quite a lot of mission concepts, showcasing the infinite potential of neon glow at the hours of darkness material paint.
From glowing patterns to vibrant colours, you may uncover how one can craft really distinctive and mesmerizing items.
Product Overview

Neon glow-in-the-dark material paint provides a vibrant and fascinating means so as to add a contact of electrifying artistry to numerous textiles. Its distinctive properties make it very best for creating eye-catching designs, from customized equipment to spectacular stage costumes. This specialised paint shines brightly beneath black mild or UV illumination, reworking extraordinary materials into luminous masterpieces.
Varieties and Variations
Neon glow-in-the-dark material paints are available a variety of formulations, every with its personal traits. Acrylic-based paints are generally used on account of their versatility and ease of use. Enamel-based paints usually provide enhanced sturdiness and climate resistance, making them appropriate for outside initiatives or functions requiring larger resistance to fading. Completely different manufacturers could provide distinctive formulations, influencing the paint’s drying time, lightfastness, and total efficiency.
Take into account components just like the meant use and desired aesthetic when selecting a selected model or kind.
Properties and Functions
This particular paint, like different material paints, boasts numerous properties essential for profitable initiatives. Lightfastness, the flexibility to take care of shade and vibrancy over time, is a key issue. Sturdiness, a measure of the paint’s resistance to put on and tear, can also be necessary for longevity. The drying time, which impacts the next phases of the mission, is one other necessary consideration.
The paint’s efficiency varies between sorts and types. Examine these properties with different material paints to find out the most suitable choice on your mission.
Comparative Evaluation
Paint Kind | Properties | Typical Functions |
---|---|---|
Acrylic Neon Glow-in-the-Darkish | Typically, good lightfastness, respectable sturdiness, comparatively fast drying time. Simple to wash up. | T-shirts, tote baggage, tote baggage, DIY wall artwork, youngsters’s crafts. |
Enamel Neon Glow-in-the-Darkish | Superior lightfastness, excessive sturdiness, probably slower drying time. Immune to water and a few solvents. | Outside banners, sportswear, costumes, indicators. |
Particular Model (e.g., [Brand Name]) Neon Glow-in-the-Darkish | Check with product specs for detailed data on lightfastness, sturdiness, and drying time. Variations exist even inside the identical kind of paint. | Take into account particular product pointers for greatest outcomes. |
An important facet of neon glow-in-the-dark material paints is their capability to retain their luminescence beneath numerous mild circumstances. Take into account the sunshine supply’s depth and the meant use when selecting a selected kind or model. Experimentation might help you identify the optimum circumstances for reaching the specified luminous impact.
Software Strategies
Unleashing the colourful glow of your neon glow-in-the-dark material paint requires a little bit of finesse. Completely different software strategies provide numerous benefits, permitting you to realize distinctive results and beautiful outcomes. Understanding the nuances of every method will empower you to create fascinating designs with precision and confidence.Making use of neon glow-in-the-dark material paint is a rewarding course of. The colourful colours and fascinating glow add a contact of magic to any mission.
From intricate stencils to daring brushstrokes, the probabilities are infinite. Select the method that most closely fits your imaginative and prescient and let your creativity soar.
Brush Software
This basic methodology is great for reaching easy, even protection on giant areas or for including particulars. A soft-bristled brush is right for mixing and creating refined gradients. Sustaining constant stress all through the applying is vital to reaching knowledgeable look.
- Put together the material by cleansing and guaranteeing it is fully dry.
- Apply a skinny, even coat of paint utilizing a brush, guaranteeing even distribution.
- Enable the paint to dry fully earlier than including any extra layers or dealing with the piece.
- For intricate particulars, use a smaller brush for exact software.
Stencil Software
Stenciling permits for creating intricate patterns and repeating designs with ease. The stencil acts as a template, stopping paint from spreading exterior the specified space. Utilizing a stencil is a simple methodology for reaching uniform patterns or advanced designs.
- Place the stencil on the material, guaranteeing it is firmly in place.
- Apply the paint utilizing a brush or sponge, conserving the paint inside the stencil’s boundaries.
- Rigorously take away the stencil after the paint has dried to disclose the design.
- Make sure the stencil is clear to forestall any paint from sticking to it and probably altering the ultimate outcome.
Spray Software
Spray software is right for giant areas and making a uniform, even coat. A twig bottle with the paint, when correctly used, yields a constant end, although it requires a gradual hand to keep away from uneven protection. Make sure the floor is well-prepared and the atmosphere is appropriate for spraying.
- Shake the spray bottle effectively to combine the paint evenly.
- Maintain the spray bottle just a few inches away from the material and apply the paint in even, overlapping strokes.
- Management the spray to forestall drips or puddles.
- Work in a well-ventilated space to keep away from inhalation of paint fumes.
Preparation Steps
Earlier than embarking on any software methodology, cautious preparation is essential. This ensures a clear and flawless end. Prepping the material and choosing the precise instruments units the stage for a profitable mission.
- Clear the material totally to take away any filth, mud, or different contaminants.
- Guarantee the material is totally dry earlier than making use of the paint.
- Select the suitable instruments and supplies, guaranteeing they’re clear and prepared to be used.
- Collect all vital provides to keep away from interruptions through the course of.
Comparability Desk
Software Technique | Execs | Cons |
---|---|---|
Brush | Exact element, easy protection, customizable | Time-consuming for giant areas, requires talent |
Stencil | Intricate designs, uniform patterns, repeatable | Restricted to stencil design, will be tedious for advanced designs |
Spray | Giant areas rapidly, even protection | Requires follow, potential for unevenness, security precautions |
Security Precautions
Neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, whereas providing vibrant and fascinating outcomes, calls for cautious dealing with to make sure your well-being and a profitable mission. Understanding the security measures is paramount to a secure and satisfying crafting expertise.Working with any craft supplies requires consciousness of potential hazards and the implementation of preventive measures. This part Artikels important security precautions to guard you from potential well being dangers and guarantee your initiatives proceed easily.
Well being Hazards and Security Measures
Neon glow-in-the-dark material paints, like many different paints, can include parts that, if not dealt with correctly, may pose potential well being dangers. The substances, although usually secure when used in response to directions, could cause allergic reactions or irritate pores and skin. The most effective method is to prioritize preventive measures, guaranteeing your security and well-being. Correct air flow and adherence to producer directions are vital.
Protecting Tools
Enough private protecting gear (PPE) is essential for safeguarding your well being through the portray course of. This contains, however isn’t restricted to, the next:
- Gloves: Shield your fingers from potential pores and skin irritation or allergic reactions. Select nitrile or latex gloves, guaranteeing they’re appropriate for dealing with chemical compounds and are a correct match.
- Eye Safety: Security glasses or goggles stop paint from getting into your eyes, minimizing potential eye irritation or harm. Select protecting eyewear that fully covers the attention space.
- Respiratory Safety: In circumstances of high-volume use or enclosed areas, use a respirator or N95 masks to filter out any airborne particles and shield your respiratory system.
Security Tips for Dealing with the Paint
To maximise security, observe these essential pointers when dealing with neon glow-in-the-dark material paint:
- Correct Air flow: Guarantee sufficient air flow within the workspace. Open home windows and use followers to flow into air and scale back publicity to color fumes. If attainable, work outdoor to maximise recent air.
- Keep away from Pores and skin Contact: At all times put on gloves when dealing with the paint. If paint comes into contact together with your pores and skin, wash the affected space totally with cleaning soap and water instantly.
- First Help: Have available first support provides. Know the right procedures for treating minor accidents, corresponding to pores and skin irritation or eye contact.
- Storage: Retailer the paint in a cool, dry place, away from direct daylight and excessive temperatures. Correct storage maintains product high quality and security.
Abstract of Security Procedures
The next desk summarizes the important security procedures for working with neon glow-in-the-dark material paint:
Security Process | Description |
---|---|
Protecting Tools | Put on gloves, security glasses, and a respirator (if vital). |
Air flow | Guarantee sufficient air flow within the workspace. Open home windows and use followers. |
Pores and skin Contact | Keep away from pores and skin contact. If contact happens, wash the world instantly. |
First Help | Maintain first support provides available. |
Storage | Retailer the paint in a cool, dry place. |
Undertaking Concepts and Examples
Unleash your inside artist with these electrifying glow-in-the-dark material portray initiatives! Rework extraordinary gadgets into extraordinary masterpieces that shimmer and shine. These initiatives are designed to encourage creativity and showcase the colourful potential of neon glow at the hours of darkness material paint.From whimsical wall hangings to dazzling equipment, these initiatives will information you thru the method of making beautiful, one-of-a-kind items.
Let your creativeness run wild as you discover the probabilities and uncover your personal distinctive creative voice.
Undertaking 1: Glowing Constellation Throw Pillow
This mission transforms a plain throw pillow right into a celestial surprise. The intricate patterns of constellations, painted with neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, deliver a contact of cosmic surprise to any residing house.
- Supplies: Plain throw pillow, neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, stencils or freehand drawing instruments, brushes, protecting floor, rubbing alcohol (for cleansing), masking tape.
- Steps: First, totally clear the pillow. Then, design the constellation sample, both by freehand drawing or utilizing stencils. Rigorously apply the neon paint, permitting every layer to dry fully. As soon as all of the paint is dry, take away the masking tape, if used.
- Closing Product: A mesmerizing throw pillow, glowing softly with the intricate great thing about the night time sky.
Undertaking 2: Glow-in-the-Darkish Starry Evening Sky Blanket
Think about a comfy blanket that illuminates the room with celestial magic. The glow-in-the-dark starry night time sky blanket is a masterpiece of contemporary artistry.
- Supplies: Plain blanket, neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, stencils or freehand drawing instruments, brushes, protecting floor, rubbing alcohol (for cleansing).
- Steps: Rigorously put together the blanket by laying it on a protecting floor. Then, use stencils or freehand drawing instruments to design the starry night time sky sample. Rigorously apply the neon paint, permitting every layer to dry fully. In spite of everything paint is dry, take away any masking tape.
- Closing Product: A singular blanket that transforms into a wide ranging night time sky when the lights are dimmed. The glow-in-the-dark impact provides a contact of thriller and surprise to any room.
Undertaking 3: Customized Neon Glow-in-the-Darkish Tote Bag
This mission means that you can create a singular tote bag that’s each practical and trendy. The customized glow-in-the-dark design provides a contact of character and magnificence to your each day carry.
- Supplies: Canvas tote bag, neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, stencils or freehand drawing instruments, brushes, protecting floor, rubbing alcohol (for cleansing).
- Steps: Completely clear the tote bag. Then, fastidiously plan and design your customized sample. Use stencils or freehand drawing instruments to create your design. Apply neon paint fastidiously, permitting every layer to dry fully. As soon as dry, take away masking tape if used.
- Closing Product: A particular tote bag with a glowing customized design that will probably be a dialog starter and a helpful addition to your on a regular basis life.
Undertaking 4: Glow-in-the-Darkish Backpack, Neon glow at the hours of darkness material paint
This mission transforms an extraordinary backpack into a blinding accent. The glow-in-the-dark design provides a contact of magic and practicality to your backpack.
- Supplies: Backpack, neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, stencils or freehand drawing instruments, brushes, protecting floor, rubbing alcohol (for cleansing).
- Steps: Rigorously put together the backpack by laying it on a protecting floor. Then, plan and design the glow-in-the-dark sample. Apply the neon paint, guaranteeing every layer is totally dry. As soon as all paint is dry, take away any masking tape used.
- Closing Product: A shocking backpack with a glowing design that provides a singular contact to your each day life.
Undertaking 5: Neon Glow-in-the-Darkish Cellphone Case
This mission is ideal for many who need to add a contact of sparkle to their tech equipment. Create a one-of-a-kind cellphone case that’s each fashionable and practical.
- Supplies: Plain cellphone case, neon glow-in-the-dark material paint, stencils or freehand drawing instruments, brushes, protecting floor, rubbing alcohol (for cleansing).
- Steps: Rigorously put together the cellphone case by laying it on a protecting floor. Then, use stencils or freehand drawing instruments to design the sample. Apply neon paint fastidiously, permitting every layer to dry fully. As soon as all paint is dry, take away any masking tape used.
- Closing Product: A personalised cellphone case that glows at the hours of darkness, including a singular and classy contact to your cellphone.
Mild Sources and Results
Unleashing the colourful glow of our neon glow-in-the-dark material paint requires understanding how completely different mild sources work together with its particular properties. This part delves into the fascinating relationship between mild, depth, and the paint’s fascinating luminescence. We’ll discover how numerous mild sources affect the paint’s visibility and glow length, offering you with the data to maximise the affect of your creations.Completely different mild sources considerably have an effect on the paint’s glow.
Stronger mild sources, like daylight or brilliant indoor lamps, are essential for charging the paint’s phosphorescent pigments. These pigments take up mild power and retailer it for later emission as a tender glow.
Mild Depth and Visibility
Mild depth performs a pivotal position within the paint’s visibility. The extra intense the preliminary mild supply, the extra power the paint absorbs, and consequently, the brighter and extra pronounced its glow. This precept is much like charging a battery; a higher-voltage supply results in a stronger cost. Outside environments with considerable daylight, for instance, provide the perfect circumstances for the paint to soak up and retain a major quantity of power.
Conversely, dimly lit areas will end in a refined, however nonetheless noticeable, glow. The steadiness between mild absorption and the length of the glow is vital in figuring out the paint’s effectiveness in numerous settings.
Elements Influencing Glow Period and Depth
A number of components contribute to the length and depth of the glow. The kind of phosphorescent pigment immediately impacts the glow’s longevity. Some pigments have an extended “reminiscence” of sunshine absorption than others, retaining their luminescence for prolonged intervals. The paint’s thickness additionally influences the glow. Thicker layers of paint can probably take up extra mild, resulting in a brighter, extra sustained glow, however it could possibly additionally affect the paint’s reflectivity.
Equally, the encircling atmosphere, together with temperature and humidity, can barely have an effect on the paint’s efficiency. For instance, extraordinarily chilly temperatures would possibly barely diminish the paint’s luminescence.
Comparability of Paint Varieties
Completely different paint sorts exhibit various levels of glow depth and length. Specialised glow-in-the-dark paints usually incorporate larger concentrations of phosphorescent pigments for enhanced visibility. These paints sometimes preserve their glow longer than normal paints. The standard of the pigments is essential. Excessive-quality pigments are extra environment friendly at storing and releasing mild power, leading to a extra pronounced and enduring glow.
In distinction, paints with lower-quality pigments could exhibit a weaker and shorter-lasting glow.
Visibility Underneath Completely different Lighting Circumstances
The paint’s visibility considerably varies beneath completely different lighting circumstances. In environments with considerable ambient mild, the paint’s glow is likely to be refined. Nonetheless, in low-light or darkish circumstances, the paint’s luminescence turns into extra pronounced and fascinating. As an example, in a darkish room, the paint’s glow can create a mesmerizing ambiance. This impact is especially putting in nighttime outside settings.
Think about a panorama illuminated by the tender, ethereal glow of your painted designs.
Upkeep and Care
Maintaining your neon glow-in-the-dark material creations vibrant and luminous is vital to their lasting enchantment. Correct care ensures these particular items proceed to shine brightly, including a contact of magic to any house. This part delves into the important steps for sustaining the glow and longevity of your painted masterpieces.Sustaining the radiant glow of your neon material masterpieces entails just a few easy, but essential steps.
Understanding the components that affect the paint’s longevity and adopting the perfect cleansing strategies are important for preserving the paint’s vibrancy and luminosity.
Sustaining the Glow
Correct dealing with and storage are basic to preserving the paint’s glow. Keep away from harsh chemical compounds and extreme friction when dealing with the material. Retailer painted gadgets in a cool, dry place away from direct daylight or warmth sources. These circumstances decrease fading and degradation, guaranteeing your creations retain their putting glow.
Cleansing Strategies
Mild cleansing strategies are essential for preserving the paint’s glow. Keep away from harsh detergents or abrasive supplies that might harm the fragile paint. A gentle, soapy answer and a tender brush are perfect for eradicating filth and mud. Rinse totally with cool water and permit the material to air dry fully. Keep away from utilizing a machine dryer, as excessive warmth could cause the paint to fade or crack.
Spot clear any stains instantly. If stains persist, search skilled cleansing companies for specialised materials.
Elements Affecting Longevity
A number of components affect the paint’s lifespan and its capability to glow. Daylight publicity, excessive temperatures, and extreme moisture are among the many main culprits. Extended publicity to those parts can result in fading and a lower within the paint’s luminosity. Equally, improper cleansing or dealing with can diminish the paint’s effectiveness over time. Correct care and storage play a major position in sustaining the paint’s integrity and glow.
Prolonging Visibility
A number of easy methods can lengthen the paint’s visibility. Common upkeep, as mentioned above, is vital. Think about using a UV-resistant sealant or varnish for added safety towards fading. Storing painted gadgets in a darkish, cool atmosphere additionally helps retain the paint’s glow. This cautious consideration to element maximizes the paint’s lifespan and ensures its vibrant glow stays spectacular for years to return.
Caring for Painted Material
Correct care is paramount for sustaining the brilliance of your material creations. The longevity of your neon glow-in-the-dark painted material relies upon closely on the way you deal with and look after it. This part Artikels the steps essential to protect the paint’s vibrant glow. Following these steps ensures your painted masterpieces proceed to radiate their distinctive allure.
- Mild Dealing with: Keep away from harsh scrubbing or extreme stress, which may harm the paint. Use tender brushes or cloths when cleansing.
- Storage Concerns: Retailer painted gadgets in a cool, dry place, away from direct daylight or warmth sources. This helps preserve the paint’s vibrancy.
- Acceptable Cleansing Options: Use delicate, soapy water and soft-bristled brushes. Keep away from harsh chemical compounds or abrasive cleaners that might harm the paint.
- Stopping Fading: Decrease publicity to direct daylight and excessive temperatures to protect the paint’s glow. UV-resistant sealants can present extra safety.
- Thorough Drying: Enable painted gadgets to air dry fully earlier than storing or dealing with them. Keep away from utilizing a machine dryer, because the excessive warmth could cause harm.
Troubleshooting: Neon Glow In The Darkish Material Paint
Unveiling the secrets and techniques to a vibrant glow, and mastering the artwork of flawless neon material portray, requires a little bit of detective work. Generally, issues do not go as deliberate, and that is completely okay! This part is your information to deciphering widespread points, providing options, and stopping future issues. From uneven software to a disappointing lack of luminescence, we’ll sort out all of it.Uneven software, a boring glow, or paint that simply does not appear to carry its vibrant shade?
Don’t fret, these are widespread hurdles, and with just a little understanding and the precise methods, you may be creating dazzling masterpieces very quickly.
Figuring out Software Points
Uneven software usually stems from inconsistent paint software or improper floor preparation. A easy, clear floor is vital to reaching a flawless end. Ensure that the material is correctly cleaned and prepped earlier than you start. If the paint is simply too thick, skinny it with a contact of water. Apply the paint in skinny, even layers.
Understanding Glow Degradation
A number of components can contribute to a less-than-spectacular glow. Inadequate mild publicity through the curing course of can drastically have an effect on the paint’s luminescence. Guarantee the material is uncovered to a brilliant mild supply, ideally daylight, for the really helpful curing time. Low-quality paint or expired paint may also end in a weaker glow.
Addressing Fading Considerations
Material paint fading can happen on account of publicity to direct daylight or harsh UV rays. Storing the painted garment in a cool, darkish place might help decrease fading. Use a protecting sealant or varnish to create a barrier towards environmental components.
Troubleshooting Desk
Situation | Attainable Trigger | Answer |
---|---|---|
Uneven Software | Inconsistent paint software, improper floor preparation, or too thick paint | Guarantee a easy, clear floor. Skinny the paint with just a little water. Apply in skinny, even layers. |
Poor Glow | Inadequate curing time, low-quality paint, expired paint, or insufficient mild publicity | Guarantee enough curing time and publicity to brilliant mild (daylight is right). Use high-quality paint. Verify the expiration date. |
Paint Fading | Publicity to direct daylight, harsh UV rays, or lack of protecting measures | Retailer the painted garment in a cool, darkish place. Use a protecting sealant or varnish. |
Preventive Measures
Following these pointers might help you keep away from these points altogether. At all times observe the producer’s directions fastidiously. Use high-quality paint. Guarantee the material is clear and correctly ready earlier than software. Enough curing time and correct storage are essential for long-lasting glow and vibrant colours.
Material Varieties and Compatibility
Neon glow-in-the-dark material paint unlocks a world of vibrant, luminous artistry! Understanding its compatibility with numerous materials is vital to reaching the specified outcomes and stopping any undesirable surprises. This part delves into the paint’s efficiency on completely different supplies, serving to you select the proper material on your subsequent inventive mission.Completely different materials react otherwise to the paint’s distinctive properties.
Some take up the paint extra readily, impacting the paint’s luminosity. Others would possibly provide a extra constant glow. This data will empower you to pick out materials greatest suited on your imaginative and prescient, whether or not you are crafting a whimsical costume or a mesmerizing wall hanging.
Material Efficiency on Neon Glow-in-the-Darkish Paint
This part explores how completely different materials work together with the paint, impacting the paint’s glow and total mission final result. The paint’s capability to stick and preserve its luminosity varies relying on the material’s weave and composition.
- Cotton: A preferred selection for its breathability and affordability, cotton usually accepts the paint effectively. Nonetheless, the absorbency of cotton can generally result in uneven glow distribution, particularly with thicker functions. Experimentation is vital, and lighter functions are inclined to yield extra constant outcomes.
- Polyester: Polyester, identified for its sturdiness and wrinkle resistance, is a unbelievable possibility for initiatives needing resilience. It offers a constant floor for the paint, leading to a extra even glow in comparison with cotton. This makes it a superb selection for gadgets uncovered to frequent put on or washing.
- Silk: Silk, with its delicate texture and distinctive drape, presents a special problem. The paint may not adhere as strongly to silk because it does to cotton or polyester. Skinny functions are extremely really helpful to keep away from uneven or patchy outcomes. Silk’s inherent magnificence and the paint’s delicate nature create a singular alternative for beautiful, luminous paintings.
- Linen: Linen’s pure fibers provide a singular texture and a country allure. Its absorbency is much like cotton, and comparable care issues must be taken. The paint’s glow on linen can fluctuate primarily based on the weave and the particular linen kind. Experimenting with completely different linen sorts can yield various outcomes.
- Denim: Denim, a sturdy and textured material, presents fascinating potentialities. The paint’s capability to stick and glow on denim is dependent upon the denim’s thickness and weave. Thicker denim would possibly require extra paint layers to realize a fair glow. That is very best for creating putting, daring designs on jackets or baggage.
Material Choice for Undertaking Concepts
Choosing the proper material considerably impacts the ultimate feel and look of your mission. Take into account the specified final result when choosing your material.
- Costumes: Polyester is a wonderful selection for its sturdiness and talent to carry the paint’s glow even after a number of washes. Cotton is an effective possibility for its affordability and luxury, however the glow may not be as constant.
- Wall hangings: Polyester and linen are each nice choices for his or her sturdiness and talent to showcase the paint’s glow. Take into account the specified drape and texture when selecting between these materials.
- Luggage and equipment: Polyester’s sturdiness makes it a best choice for baggage and equipment, permitting the paint to stay vibrant and luminescent even with common use. Cotton, whereas a softer various, would possibly require extra cautious dealing with.
Material Compatibility Abstract
This desk summarizes the compatibility of neon glow-in-the-dark material paint with numerous material sorts. The desk offers a fast reference information that will help you choose the perfect material on your mission.
Material Kind | Compatibility | Efficiency Notes |
---|---|---|
Cotton | Good | Might present uneven glow distribution; thinner functions really helpful. |
Polyester | Glorious | Constant glow; extremely sturdy. |
Silk | Average | Might require skinny functions; delicate dealing with really helpful. |
Linen | Good | Related absorbency to cotton; outcomes could fluctuate primarily based on weave. |
Denim | Good | Outcomes fluctuate primarily based on denim thickness; could require a number of layers for even glow. |