The World's Blackest Black Paint: BLACK 4.0 by Stuart Semple
What is the world's blackest black paint?
BLACK 4.0 is the world's most famous super-black acrylic paint, made by British artist Stuart Semple. It absorbs at least 99.8% of visible light, making it blacker than anything else commercially available to artists and creators worldwide.
What makes BLACK 4.0 different from regular black paint?
Regular black paints absorb roughly 95-97% of light. BLACK 4.0 uses a proprietary acrylic binder and mattifier technology combined with a specially engineered black pigment to achieve a near-total light absorption. The result isn't just black, it's an absence of light. Objects painted with BLACK 4.0 appear to lose their three-dimensional form and become flat voids of darkness.
Specifications: - Product Type: Super-Black Acrylic Paint - Finish: Ultra Matte - Colour: Ultra Black (absorbs 99.8%+ of visible light) - Water Based: Yes - Toxicity: Non-Toxic - Vegan: Yes - Surface Compatibility: Canvas, Paper, Wood, Metal, Plastic, Resin - Suitable For: Artists, Designers, Model Makers, Stage Designers, Architects
What can I use BLACK 4.0 for?
BLACK 4.0 is used by thousands of artists and makers worldwide for:
- Fine Art: Create dramatic contrast paintings where subjects disappear into void-like darkness
- Sculpture: Make 3D objects appear flat and 2-dimensional
- Model Making and Miniatures: Use it on wargaming miniatures, scale models, and dioramas for deep shadow effects
- Stage and Theatre Sets: Create optical illusions and dramatic backdrops
- Product Photography: Use as a background to eliminate light bounce
- Architecture and Interior Design: Architectural-scale blackout panels and light-absorbing surfaces
- Cosplay and Props: Deep black with zero shine or reflection
Is BLACK 4.0 the same as Vantablack?
No. Vantablack is a different technology (carbon nanotube coating) that is not available to individual artists or the general public. BLACK 4.0 is a water-based acrylic paint that anyone can buy and use. It is inspired by the desire to make extreme black accessible, Stuart Semple created it partly in response to Anish Kapoor's exclusive licence over Vantablack for artistic use.
How does BLACK 4.0 compare to other black paints?
| Paint | Light Absorption | Finish | Water-Based | Available to Artists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK 4.0 | ~99.8% | Ultra Matte | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Acrylic Black | ~95-97% | Varies | Yes | Yes |
| Carbon Black | ~97-98% | Matte | Varies | Yes |
| India Ink | ~95% | Glossy/Matte | Yes | Yes |
| Vantablack | ~99.965% | N/A | No | No (restricted) |
How do I apply BLACK 4.0?
- Seal porous surfaces first: use PVA glue or a layer of Black 2.0 as primer on canvas, wood, or fabric
- Two coats recommended: allow 2 hours drying time between coats
- Less is more: use a small amount of paint and spread it as thinly and evenly as possible
- Works in airbrush: thin with water to the consistency you need
- Best results on flat, primed surfaces
Is BLACK 4.0 safe?
Yes. BLACK 4.0 is non-toxic, water-based, and suitable for adults and older children in supervised settings. It is vegan and does not contain any harmful chemicals. Clean up with water.
Where is BLACK 4.0 made?
BLACK 4.0 is handmade by a team of artists in England using world-class ingredients. Every batch is quality-tested before shipping.
Available Sizes
- Small (150ml): ideal for smaller projects, paintings, and models
- Large (1 Litre): for murals, large canvases, or frequent use
- XXXXXXL (6 Litre): for major installation work or commercial projects
BLACK 4.0 is made by Culture Hustle, the art materials brand created by British artist Stuart Semple. It ships worldwide from our studios in the UK and Kentucky, USA.