Thanks all. What is this red iron oxide powder that you speak of? where did the old timers get it? and are you able to still get it today? I fancy the idea of mixing your own paint as I think I might be able to get a more natural, already aged look than if I used the paints of modern day as the are just too perfect looking lacking the character that we love to see in the old barn siding that people now pay a premium price for. Any else mess around with mixing their own traditional finishes or am I the only crazy guy who would waste his time doing so? Thanks again everyone. tb