Washes are all about flow. The more you paint, the sooner you will feel that you are in control of what seems to be a random movement across the paper.
But here are a few hints about washes and your paper:
Please use an artist grade of paper to practice your washes. If you use a student grade, you will never receive the same results as in your finished work. Arches, Fabriano, Saunders Waterford and some of the best ones. Of course, they come in different weights, and textures. Again, use for practice, the type you will be using in your finished work.
But here are a few hints about washes and your paper:
Please use an artist grade of paper to practice your washes. If you use a student grade, you will never receive the same results as in your finished work. Arches, Fabriano, Saunders Waterford and some of the best ones. Of course, they come in different weights, and textures. Again, use for practice, the type you will be using in your finished work.
A word about 'wetness'
Full wet: The paper is covered with water but not so wet that it moves across the paper or puddles. You will be able to see the shine where the paper is wet. Perfect for graded and flat washes. A good way to start a painting with an atmospheric beginning. After this wash has dried other washes can be added on top.
Semi-wet: This comes from making patches of the paper wet and leaving others dry. You can reserve areas for the sharp edges of realistic detail and wet areas for atmospheric and softer effects.
Damp: The paper is wet but has no shine. Great for drawing with water, scraping out or spattering. You'll be able to make a clean circle by touching a finger to it. This is not the time to try to mix color into the paper.
Dry: is suitable for all forms and textures. Makes sharp edges which may be difficult to undo.
"It is just a matter of timing, but timing in watercolor,as in life, is everything." Jeanne Carbonetti
Semi-wet: This comes from making patches of the paper wet and leaving others dry. You can reserve areas for the sharp edges of realistic detail and wet areas for atmospheric and softer effects.
Damp: The paper is wet but has no shine. Great for drawing with water, scraping out or spattering. You'll be able to make a clean circle by touching a finger to it. This is not the time to try to mix color into the paper.
Dry: is suitable for all forms and textures. Makes sharp edges which may be difficult to undo.
"It is just a matter of timing, but timing in watercolor,as in life, is everything." Jeanne Carbonetti
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