mixing sample amounts of mortar with dye to match existing - tips

[utterlydiy]

I want to re-point some parts of a wall.

The existing mortar is redish colour.

Any tips of how to mix a small sample, to dry out for a colour match using red dye either powder or liquid.

Then use same ratio later in a larger mix for pointing when a match is found.

thanks

 

[Charlie George]

Not easy to do on small amounts,you could try a measure jug, fill to certain level with sand x3 then add 1 cement,then use something smaller for dye and keep record of amounts added,then when you get the right mix increase amounts. you may find you will need to make it more red than existing and let it weather to similar colour over time.

 

[^woody^]

Unless you know the original mix, the type of sand and make of dye used then you will never get a perfect match. Even the drying time and how its pointed influence the final shade.

Basically small samples hardly ever turn out the same when scaled up

 

[SFK]

Have a look here where we have previously discussed this (and a nice photo of red sand at B&Q).

https://www.diynot.com/diy/threads/white-mortar-suggested-mixes.459515/#post-3651176