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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
June 18, 2014
Q: Maryellen wants to know: "If you are layering watercolor pencils over alcohol marker, what kind of paper do you use?"
A: That is a fun combination! If I'm going to be using a wet medium, I'd use either matboard, watercolor paper, mixed media paper, or very heavy cardstock (110# or more). Watercolor paper does soak up more alcohol ink than cardstock would, but it will take the water more readily, without warping. If you're stamping you'll need to use an archival or hybrid ink that won't react with water or the solvent-based markers, but the combination of strong color base and water effects can be really stunning.
June 11, 2014
Q: Laurie asks: "What kind of glue or paste could I use to add a touch of "beach" sand to a card. Do I need to spray it afterwards with something?"
A: Tacky Glue is great for adding dimensional 'stuff' to cards. It dries quick and clear, with a strong hold. Another idea is to mix the sand with a gel medium that would dry clear, and spread it on. You can even buy textural pastes that have sand or glass beads in them. So fun! You shouldn't need to spray anything on the sand but if you're concerned about it falling off, you could drizzle some Glossy Accents or other clear dimensional glue over it and let it dry in between the grains.
June 4, 2014
Q: Kristen wants to know: "I have Copic markers, Distress Inks and Tombow markers. Do my inked stamps work the same on all papers?"
A: When preparing to color, you'll need to make sure your inks, paper, and coloring medium are compatible. There are lots of options out there, but here's a general guide. Alcohol markers work best on smooth cardstock, and are most compatible with dye or hybrid inks which do not react with solvents (Memento ink is usually recommended). Distress inks and water-soluble markers have interesting properties when they're blended with water. Watercolor paper (140# or more) is the best choice for water blending, as it allows for slower absorbency, and resists warping. Make sure to use ink that is not water-soluble if you want to keep a crisp outline. Here's a discussion thread with lots of ink suggestions for watercolored cards.
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.
