Guides

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What is the difference between hot press and cold press paper? 

The smoothest surface is hot press, which is best for scientific, detailed and hyper-realistic work, whereas cold press has a more textured surface and is great for effects like granulation and texture.

What is the best watercolour paper for granulation?

Rough-surfaced papers give much stronger granulated effects as the roughness will exaggerate the granulation. The pigment clings on to the texture of a granulation-friendly surface, like our Cotman Watercolour Paper Pads.

What happens if watercolour paper fails to stretch?

If the paper fails to stretch you can reuse it by cutting it off the board and going through the soaking and stretching process again. There are four faults that...

What is the best watercolour paper for stretching on a flat board?

Acid-free paper is the best paper to use if you want your work to last a long time. This is because acidity embrittles the paper and eventually makes it too...

How to stretch watercolour paper

There are two effective ways to stretch your watercolour paper; stretching on a flat board and stretching on a purpose-made frame.

Do I need to stretch watercolour paper?

Stretching your watercolour paper before painting allows you the creative freedom to use as much water as you want, whenever you want. To avoid unsightly cockling – the wrinkling and ridging of...

How to reshape, dry and store watercolour paint brushes?

With watercolour brushes, it’s important to remove excess water, dry ferrules and handles, reshape brush heads, and rest them with the bristles facing upwards to dry off. Don’t worry if...

What is the best brush when using Art Masking Fluid?

It’s better to use low-priced or old brushes if possible. If fine lines are required, a goose quill is ideal and for larger areas you can try a colour shaper...

How to clean watercolour brushes?

When pigment particles build up at the base of the brush, it pushes hairs apart and stops the point from forming. To avoid this, wipe your watercolour brush clean with a lint-free...

What brush shape and size is best for watercolour?

Brushes come in various shapes like round, flat, filbert, and fan, each offering different mark-making capabilities. Size numbers vary across ranges, so comparing actual brushes is crucial. For watercolourists, shorter...

What are the best paintbrushes for use with watercolour? 

Watercolour brushes are the best as they have soft bristles, making them ideal for working in smooth layers of colour. The size of the brush is crucial depending on what you...