Search
Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
May 28, 2014
Q: Charlene wants to know: "I'm wanting to invest in watercolor paints but I'm not sure what to purchase, pan, tube or pencils. What do you recommend?"
A: The main things to consider are how much you're wanting to invest, and how and where you'll be using the paints. They're all great options. Pans are vibrant, ready to use, and practically sized. Tubes are recommended for more intense paintings, custom mixes, or washes over a large area. Pencils are less expensive, and they're compact and portable; they're great for smaller paintings and for adding fine details. All three forms can be used together, and can be purchased in open stock - you might consider buying one or two of each form to see which is the best fit for you!
May 21, 2014
Q: Lorie asks: “What inks are best for vellum?”
A: Vellum is tricky! For outlines I use Stazon. Brilliance inks will also dry on vellum without having to be embossed. Memento Luxe will work as well, though it has a slower drying time. Pigment inks will need to be embossed. Dye inks tend to either feather or bead.
May 14, 2014
Q: Mo says: “When using alcohol markers to color nonporous surfaces, I always find the item is quite sticky afterwards. Is there anything I can do to stop or prevent that?"
A: Make sure the surface is very clean before you begin, so the inks aren't reacting with oils or dust. You might want to use a water-based spray sealant once you're done, to add a gloss or matte finish and protect your work. You may also consider using products such as Vintaj Patinas and Glaze, which are specially formulated to adhere to metal.
May 7, 2014
Q: Cathy wants to know: " How can I get a letterpress look with wafer dies?"
A: I get the best results on soft watercolor paper with some cotton content. With my Big Shot, I flip to Tab 1, then use the following sandwich (bottom to top): a cutting plate, silicone rubber pad, watercolor paper, the die (cutting side down), and a second cutting plate. For the Cuttlebug, layer Plate A and B, the embossing pad, watercolor paper, the die (cutting side down), shims as needed, and a second B plate. The result is a debossed impression of the die, which makes a beautiful background or even focal element.
April 30, 2014
Q: Leila asks: "I am exploring the art of pergamano... is there a difference between vellum paper and parchment paper?"
A: Vellum has a weight of 90 gsm, while parchment has a weight of 140-160 gsm. Either type of paper can be used, but the heavier weight of the parchment paper makes it more durable for the piercing and embossing techniques of pergamano, and also more resilient to coloring, especially with wet mediums like markers or watercolors.
