Painting with watercolors without damaging the paper
by Davina
(Mauritius)
Can you explain how to paint with watercolors without damaging the paper?
There are a few things you can do to avoid damaging your paper when you are painting with watercolors:
- To start with, be sure to use good quality watercolor paper. Watercolor paper that is listed as "Artist Quality" is better than the papers labeled "Student Quality". My favorite watercolor papers are by Fabriano. Arches also makes good watercolor paper. When you use watercolor paper that isn't high quality, the paper is not as strong so it will have a tendency to buckle, bend and warp when the paints are added. Cheaper watercolor paper is also thinner, so it can't handle as much paint and will tear more easily if it is rubbed with an eraser or a loaded paintbrush.
- When you start the painting, try not to apply too much paint to any one area. If you overload part of the paper with paint, then decide to re-wet it and rub it out and try over again, there can be a danger of damaging the paper. Start your painting slowly and carefully to avoid adding too much paint at once.
- Try not to rub your paintbrush into the paper too much or too hard. When you do this, the hairs of the brush will rub off the fibers on the paper, causing noticeable damage. Always approach your watercolor painting with a light touch to avoid damage caused by the brush.
Hope that helps, and best of luck with your watercolor paintings!
Best Wishes,
Thaneeya
