How to Stretch Watercolour Paper THE EASY WAY!

Stretching your watercolour paper doesn't have to be messy or difficult. You can do it with masking tape and be ready to paint 15 minutes!
Hello!
My name is Crystal Beshara and I have been an fine art painter and Arts Educator for over 20 + years
PLEASE READ:
This video is all about "How to Stretch your Watercolor Paper: THE EASY WAY!"
It's ideal for so many people do not have access to a big tub (or gum tape or butchers tape). Traditional methods can be challenging. This is why I created this "EASY" video. It can be awkward for people who suffer from arthritis or mobility issues, and often just as damaging to the paper to handle a large sheet of wet watercolour paper.
I have no problems using the "quick" method above - even on my large paintings 22 x 30. It's a short cut and so much easier as you can see from comments below for people who have difficulty with typical methods. Please read on for key tips and tricks :)
FOR MORE FULL LENGTH TUTORIALS: crystalbeshara...
The key is to wet it enough (without over-wetting) and THE USE THE HAIR DRYER... you can see (as indicated by paper buckle ) that the fibers are in fact expanding and stretching even while it is taped down. The physiology of the paper definitely expands more when wet first, using the hair dryer prompts further shrinking and tightening.
Also, as mentioned in the video - you must wash your hands and absolutely be sure to avoid over touching the paper- or handling with lotions / even your natural oils can interfere.
Many folks have found this helpful. I've also suggested using a block if all else fails.
I am using Arches 140lb Cold Pressed Bright White paper.
CHECK OUT MY VIDEO on HOW TO TEAR or CUT your paper • How to tear or cut you...
MATERIALS NEEDED:
-Your paper should be 100% RAG or cotton (artist grade paper)
-A rigid board a little bigger than your paper (OR EVEN a SMOOTH/ non porous surface/table)
-A 1.5-2" wash brush
A hair dryer
-1-1.5" masking tape with medium "tac" (make sure it is sticky enough)
Water bucket
Check out my FULL LENGTH TUTORIALS:
crystalbeshara...
BRUSHES:
Peruse my carefully handcrafted line of watercolor brushes and SAVE 15% with the code " WELCOMESAVE! " crystalbeshara...
WWW.CRYSTALBESHARA.com