
The number of shots in an ounce of paint depends on the calibration of the original tinting machine. For example, if the machine is calibrated to 48ths, then a formula of B-1Y14 would mean 1 ounce and 14 shots. In this case, there would be 14 shots in an ounce of paint. If the machine is calibrated to 64ths, there would be 64 shots in an ounce of paint.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of shots in 1 ounce of paint | 35 shots (48ths) or 23 shots (64ths) |
| Typical paint formula | B-1Y14 (Black, 1 oz, and 14 shots) |
| Most common increment in architectural paints | 48ths |
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What You'll Learn

A shot is a calibration of the tinting machine
The number of shots in an ounce of paint depends on the calibration of the tinting machine. A shot is a calibration of the tinting machine, and different machines may be calibrated to different increments. For example, a shot could refer to 1/48, 1/64, 1/32, or another increment.
When mixing paint, it is important to know the calibration of the tinting machine to ensure the correct amount of each ingredient is added. In a paint formula, the number of shots may be indicated by a fraction, such as 29/48ths or 35/64ths. This indicates the number of shots in relation to the specific increment of the tinting machine.
For example, if a paint formula calls for 1 ounce of paint and 35 shots, and the tinting machine is calibrated to 1/48 increments, then 35 shots would refer to 35/48 of an ounce, or 0.729 ounces. In this case, 1 ounce plus 35 shots would be equivalent to 1.729 ounces.
It is worth noting that there is a lack of standardization in the calibration of tinting machines, which can vary between different paint brands and formulations. This can make it challenging to decipher paint formulas and determine the exact amounts of each ingredient required. However, with the right information about the calibration of the tinting machine, it is possible to accurately mix paint according to the specified formula.
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1 oz is denoted with 'Y' to avoid confusion with zero
In paint formulas, 1 oz is denoted with a "Y" to avoid confusion with zero. This is because the use of "O" or "Oz" could be mistaken for a zero, especially in formulas such as B-1Y14, which refer to black colourant, 1 oz, and 14 shots. The "Y" in this context is generally not used to denote any other type of measurement or weight, so it became the standard way to represent 1 oz in paint formulas.
The ounce is a unit of measurement for mass, weight, or volume that originated from the Ancient Roman uncia, which meant "a twelfth". The term was borrowed into Pre–Old English, becoming "ynce" and later evolving into the modern English word "inch". It was also borrowed into Middle English, resulting in words like "ounce". The abbreviation "oz" came from the Italian cognate "onza".
Over time, different variations of the ounce emerged, including the avoirdupois ounce, the troy ounce, the tower ounce, and the fluid ounce, each with its own specific definition and usage. The avoirdupois ounce, for example, is defined as 1/16 of an avoirdupois pound and is commonly used in the United States and the British imperial system. On the other hand, the troy ounce is used specifically for measuring the mass of precious metals like gold, silver, and platinum.
In the context of paint formulas, the "shots" refer to the increments or fractions used in tinting machines. For instance, in the formula AXN - 29/48ths + 1/96th, the "shots" represent 48ths, indicating that the formula likely involves exterior yellow colourant. Similarly, in the formula B - 7 ounces + 23/48ths, the "shots" are 48ths, referring to black colourant.
The use of "Y" to represent 1 oz in paint formulas ensures clarity and precision in communication, avoiding potential confusion with zeros or other measurements.
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'Y' could stand for 'yank'
In paint formulas, one ounce is often denoted by the letter "Y". This is because using "O" or "Oz" could be confused with a zero. Since 'Y' is not typically used to denote any other type of measurement or weight, it became the standard symbol for an ounce.
One source suggests that 'Y' could stand for 'yank' because it was a full yank of the lever on the old machines used to mix paint.
In a typical paint formula, a colorant may be listed as "B-1Y14", which means Black, 1 oz, and 14 shots of whatever increment (e.g. 48ths, 32nds). In this example, 'Y' denotes one ounce.
The number of shots in an ounce of paint depends on the calibration of the original tinting machine. For example, if the machine is calibrated to 48ths, then a formula of "B-7 ounces 23 shots" would mean 7 ounces plus 23/48ths of an ounce.
While the exact origin of using 'Y' to denote one ounce in paint formulas is unclear, it is likely to be a standard convention to avoid confusion with other numbers or symbols.
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Valspar uses 48ths
In paint formulas, the number of shots in an ounce can vary depending on the paint and the tinting machine used. The number of shots refers to the increments that the tinting machine is calibrated to, which can be 48ths, 64ths, or other measurements. Valspar, a paint company, is known to use 48ths as the increment for their paint formulas.
In a paint formula, the number of shots indicates how much of a particular colourant or pigment is added to achieve the desired colour. For example, in the Valspar paint formula mentioned in a forum post, the code "B-1Y14" indicates Black, 1 oz, and 14 shots. The "Y" denotes ounce, and the number after it represents the number of shots in that ounce. So, in this case, 1 ounce of black colourant would be added, along with 14 shots or 14/48ths of the same colourant.
Using 48ths as the increment allows for more precise measurements and colour matching. It provides a finer gradation of colour, enabling paint mixers to create more accurate and consistent colours. This is particularly important when matching paint colours for touch-up work or when trying to recreate an older paint colour.
However, the use of 48ths or other increments can also lead to confusion and challenges in colour matching. As different paint companies and stores may use varying increments, it can be difficult to match colours across different brands or even within the same brand if the formulas have changed over time. In such cases, taking a sample of the old paint and trying to match it in-store may be necessary, although it may not result in an exact match due to age and formula changes.
Valspar's use of 48ths in their paint formulas is, therefore, a standard that helps ensure colour accuracy and consistency within their brand. It allows for precise measurements and enables customers to achieve the desired colours for their projects. However, it also underscores the need for standardisation across the paint industry to simplify colour matching and avoid confusion for consumers.
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Iron Oxide is often used in paint
In paint formulas, the number of shots in an ounce can vary depending on the calibration of the tinting machine used. For example, if a formula specifies "B-1Y14", it means Black, 1 ounce, and 14 shots, where the shots could be in increments of 48ths, 32nds, or other units.
Now, to address your request about iron oxide: Iron oxide is a pigment that has been used in paints for centuries, dating back to early humans painting on cave walls. It is a popular choice for artists and painters due to its unique properties and benefits.
Iron oxide pigments offer a range of hues, from deep red to brownish red, and even yellow and black shades. These pigments are available in various pH values, from acidic to slightly alkaline, allowing for different levels of dispersion and stability. Iron oxide is also known for its UV protection capabilities, enhancing the durability and aesthetic appeal of paintings.
In terms of specific paint types, iron oxide is commonly used in oil paintings. The transparent iron oxide pigments provide superior lightfastness, non-toxicity, UV protection, and colour durability. Additionally, the synthetic production process of these pigments allows for a variety of hues and pigment shapes.
Iron oxide is also used in other applications beyond the artistic realm. For example, red iron oxide is used in paints, coatings, rubber, paper, and construction. The building materials industry is the largest consumer of iron oxide pigments due to their good dispersibility and tinting strength.
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on the calibration of the original tinting machine. For example, if the machine was calibrated to 48ths, 1 ounce of paint would be 48 shots.
48ths is probably the most common calibration in architectural paints, followed by 32nds.
Y was chosen as it is not used to denote any other type of measurement or weight, so it became the standard to avoid confusion with O or Oz being mistaken for zero.
This depends on the brand of paint. For example, Valspar uses 48ths, while BM uses 32nds.















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