How to Use Your EXPENSIVE Watercolor Paper without FEAR

[@clemlank9069]

The good paper can be very forgiving, and almost indestructible. I did a painting of four chickadees on a branch that I didn’t like how the background turned out, I actually rinsed it in the sink, dried it by smoothing it on a sliding glass door and reworked it. I now love how it looks.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

That's so awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@christinemcclester2695]

Thank you for the great tip! I’d feel much less fearful knowing I can wash it!

[@clemlank9069]

@@christinemcclester2695 depending on the paper you will lose some of the sizing but the Arches paper I was using still worked well after the rinse.

[@glorioskiola]

Same here. I’ve washed my Arches paper at the sink, rubbed with a soft toothbrush, then repainted. You won’t get all the pigment off because some pigments will stain, but you definitely can rework a painting (or part of it) if you don’t like it.

[@recoveringsoul755]

Wow, great to know!!

[@hartkarasch791]

Thanks so much for the pep talk! I pulled my half-sheet Arches block out of the cupboard after 10 years and absolutely destroyed a sheet with a lousy overworked painting this afternoon. But at least its going to get used before I die!

[@nancyrolfe3033]

I’m 63 and have learned that anything that brings as much joy as watercolor does to me is worth every dollar spent on quality supplies!! Seriously, I’m very amateur painter, but I just fell in love with it the first time I put paint on paper!!! I had splurged and bought a very nice brush which was heavenly. It was not until I bought good paper that I could get decent results.. I live in very rural area and started after my mother became sensitive to oils (she was living in my home) Since painting was “my escape” “a coping mechanism “ I decided to go with watercolor until l could return to oils. I never went back….lol Just found my favorite medium!! Again. I’m not good. I just love everything about it; I feel such joy from watercolor painting so I just keep practicing…. Thank you for such an inspirational video! Oh, honey! You are so VERY talented! I love your work… I really love your sweet, gentle and generous spirit! Thank you for sharing your time and talent. It’s really helping me. Nancy Rolfe

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I LOVE this. The joy is worth it--so true. Thank you so much for this incredibly kind comment--made my day!

[@cris_ad]

I really like seeing videos like this because I don't think people realize how much work goes into art. You don't just sit down and whip out a masterpiece in a frenzy, heck, even the MASTERS spent actual YEARS on paintings. Art is actual work, not just slapping paint against a surface until you don't hate it.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I agree! And there must be planning (especially with watercolor!) because it’s almost impossible to change once the sketch is on! 🙌

[@judygainer1766]

Haha! Ain't that the truth

[@Nancy-tr5fi]

Your daughter is so beautiful, love the mischievous glimmer.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thank you so much!

[@bigjohnnygee123]

I think this is probably the most comprehensive video on the preparation stages of a painting I've ever seen. I'm trying to use my expensive paper more often and these tips will help a lot!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Wow, thank you! Glad to help!

[@Blick_Art]

This approach would help painters in any medium! Planning and preparation is always a good thing. If you're doing it right, advance planning actually helps creativity flow because you've eliminated some of the obstacles, and by the time the brush hits that nice piece of paper, you can just start responding to the paint and the surface. Great advice, as always!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I completely agree! This is similar prep work to what many oil and acrylic painters do, too. Thanks for another great comment--always good insight!

[@Dedaskitchen]

I like to buy a large sheet of Arches at Hobby Lobby for about $8.00, then cut it down to 5x7 size, which give 18 sheets, which are $.44 each. Now my expensive paper only costs me .44 a sheet, and if I mess up, turn it over! Now it’s just a $.22 cent piece of paper! So, I don’t really worry about “messing it up”! And I’m using really good paper! I also buy Daniel Smith in tubes, but squeeze it out in a palette, and it lasts a very long time! (Any good professional paint is less expensive in a tube form). Yes, all supplies are wasted that just sit on shelf never used!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Great advice!

[@Angie-pl3uw]

I paint small as well. I like to paint small, and it’s a good size for me. I love 5 x 7 as well.

[@shellerk]

What a lovely daughter.

[@shadowguard3578]

I love my modest quantity of professional grade art supplies. I’m an intermediate amateur and I think using them is a mind set: I don’t look at my art supplies as ‘expensive’ supplies, or treat them as precious, and neither are they unique. My art supplies are tools so I don’t have a problem using them. Also if I don’t use them I’m not going to improve and once used I can buy another! 😊

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

That's a great mindset to have!

[@shadowguard3578]

@@EmilyOlsonArt thank you! 🤩

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

Lots of great tips for using your expensive paper & boards. I have never heard or tried watercolor ground before. Definitely need to check out all about that. I have just started using expensive watercolor paper & 100% cotton paper for about 6 months now, although I have been painting for almost 4 years come October 2023. I have been using Canson XL Watercolor paper & Mixed Media paper. I am definitely enjoying & learning quite a bit from you & your channel. Thanks for sharing this wonderful information with us.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@TheDonnaCrosby]

When I was working a 9 to 5 I stocked up on quality supplies. Now in retirement I am glad I did.

[@annenglish2935]

This gave me anxiety just watching you change your picture using a computer! I barely know how to use my phone.... and that's fine for me. I'll just make do with my art without all the techie stuff! I never realized how much the computer can change the original! Happy painting!!! Thanks for sharing!

[@annenglish2935]

I've used Arches... which I am storing up as I find it on sale... there's a real learning curve... it uses more water. Then, when I use other cotton paper, each one is different! I haven't painted in a year & before that I painted about a year. I am starting over with swatching... then we'll see... thank you, Emily! God bless you! ❤

[@vilvile]

I love the vibe of these videos, their tone and how they go to the point.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thank you very much for that!

[@slateportraichu5416]

I am afraid of using my more expensive art supplies. This was a very nice video.Thank you=) Your paintings are fabulous=)

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks so much, and I'm glad the video was enjoyable!

[@glenda7921]

Thanks for the pep talk Emily - I don’t think I’ll be able to commit to large format paper any time soon. A smaller piece not only feels less risky, I’ll admit to losing interest along the way….I’m energized around new subjects and am guilty of giving up too soon. Keep these kinds of videos coming!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I can relate to the need to stay engaged! Big paintings tend to sit in my studio for weeks at a time and I'll work on them in spurts. :) Small paintings are definitely the most FUN!

[@alyshiarobison2290]

I'm so glad to find I'm not the only one that gets bored halfway, or even after just starting a piece that's taken so long to prep for.

[@PatriciaPageMosaicArtsCrafts]

I dont party, don't buy clothes unless necessary these days, so I use my expensive paper, the difference is amazing. Great tips ❤👍🏾🤗

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Money well spent! 😉

[@helgaleifsdottir5191]

Me too.

[@MissIshX]

Yes I love this! Thank you! Now I know what to do! The prep is insane but I am going to do this! I don’t care if it takes weeks to get it right. Still beats the years I’ve kept my expensive watercolour papers. Amazing video!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so welcome!

[@merlinsreturn]

You REALLT GET IT! Thank you!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

🙌🙌🙌

[@roxannerosecrans4441]

Your daughter is beautiful 😍 and you are so good at portraits!! And I agree about the paper, I actually got arches paper for Christmas and I am afraid of wasting it...

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thank you! You're going to love the paper!

[@ChantelleArts]

I completely agree with not giving up on failed paintings, it’s important to try not to fall into that habit, plus you can end up liking something that you initially hated quite easily 😊

[@mrsdee47]

Exactly - a couple of years ago I found an amazing gorilla photo online and started painting it on my largest Arches block. Many hours of painting later I decided I couldn’t capture his eyes, so detached it from the block and stored it. Found it recently and thought it was beautiful and can now see how I could rescue it. But I deleted the photo reference 😫

[@ChantelleArts]

@@mrsdee47 oh no that's so sad! removed from it's block as well 😢😢

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

YES! Totally agree with stepping back and giving it time before deciding to toss it!

[@scottmantooth8785]

@@EmilyOlsonArt *no painting is actually ever totally wasted...there's always the option of dividing the painting into smaller sections and then painting on the reverse side...this has the double advantage of adding both provenance and an additional layer of authentication to the piece later if it becomes well known and more valuable...at the very least it adds a neat back story to the piece*

[@PinkWytchBytch]

With me, if someone or something interrupts me, it throws the entire process off, I have such a hard time coming back to a painting after I’ve been forced to stop. It’s like the interruption changes my workflow and I can’t usually finish one that got interrupted

[@bluemonqi]

Thank you, i struggle with that feeling often. I have to make a portrait for a competition and don't have photoshop or a printer so it took me several nights to make the sketch on my bao hong cotton paper, and i did practise some more nights before i dared diving in painting the sketch. Very helpfull video, thank you.

[@sheilagilleland4312]

Oh my gosh I had no idea there was so much preparation in a water color. But obviously it works, your work is absolutely superb!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thank you so much!

[@marjo-riittareinikainen9740]

I have a block of Saunders Waterford 600 grams paper but haven’t dared to use it so far. I know I should! It can be “washed ” if needed. Maybe I haven’t found a right subject to paint on it yet.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You can do it!

[@edgarapap511]

Great video! Based on my limited experience, when I saw the title of this video my guess was “Make sure it’s not the first time you paint the painting.” That’s part of what you presented, but of course you said it much better than I could 😉

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Yes! That's a big part of preparation! 😉

[@kathrynannis6729]

Oh this made me laugh...and get ready to use my arches paper that has been sitting in a drawer! I do have a question for anyone here - I just paint for fun, although I want to learn and improve. But - what do you all do with all the paintings you've made?? I've started working smaller in a water color journal bcz I have a bunch of paintings sitting around in my studio.

[@irenedeprov]

WOW, wow, WOW!!! Yes!!! These are perfect tips! Because when you watch tutorials, all of this is usually left behind and you start to think that all other artists just whip out masterpieces freehand and you’re just not on that level. But this actually shows real (!!) approach to any serious painting that you want to do. I would also love to paint my daughter’s portrait and I need to prepare exactly like you did. Thank you again!!!

[@Bluegreen7Pau]

Absolutely, Emily! Supplies are meant to be used and we will never get better, or worthy, if they stay in our cabinet. This is a struggle I am going through now and I found that yes, planning is the way to go! Thank you for your video.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are most welcome!

[@Vainu]

Thank you for the mental support 😄 This is my exact problem and makes me avoid painting... I am always waiting for a perfect day when I would be full of inspiration and energy and everything would go smoothly to use this precious paper. Nevertheless, I still think cotton paper is worth every penny. I just have to get rid of this mental block of mine. I like your motto that paper is only wasted when it stays blank.

[@SimplyOrganizedLLCMadison]

I had no idea all the effort that goes into one gorgeous portrait Emily. Thanks for sharing.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

My pleasure 😊

[@2010ymg]

After almost giving up on watercolours, I watched a video that spoke about the importance of using high quality paper. So I bit the silver bullet and it was my “aha” moment. Now I know why the paint stayed on the surface over the “cheap” paper. Sure, the line drawing is key: if the line drawing is bad, it won’t get better when you apply the watercolour. I love your take on the importance of preparation and the studies of your subject. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise with everyone 😊

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks so much for your lovely comment!

[@gwenritch]

As a newbie I’m excited to learn all this about watercolor. I’m an acrylic artist. However I was a bit put off to know about the sizing used in Arches paper.

[@anndavidson287]

Thanks for reminding me of preparing for good works...I get impatient and don't have a plan or goal just start with pencil or ink before watercolour work... on sketchbook or blocks. ..then have to deal with mistakes or things that I want to change in direction...😮..! Hard to do with watercolour but easier with Arches or other good paper to rewet and lift out areas..without damaging the paper!! Thanks for sharing!! Love your work❤! 😊 from Canada 🍁.

[@montagnu]

I've always used 100% cotton paper, even as a beginner. I got over my fear of "wasting" it years ago when I started adopting a realistic attitude by realizing that not all paintings are going to be a smashing success. I like to experiment a lot, and many of my experiments are abject failures. When a painting fails I use the back to test colour mixes and practice new techniques. So in reality, I never really waste paper.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Such a healthy perspective!

[@fuzzydragons]

since i am on a no buy art supply buy for this year, and prob next lol i have to use up the good supplies, so out comes the luminance pencils and the expensive pastels lol digital is def very handy when you need to change something about your reference photo for use on expensive mediums, takes away a bit of the nervousness of possibly wrecking expensive supplies lol

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Ooh that would be hard to NOT buy supplies for a year! But yes--good excuse to use the ones you have!

[@fuzzydragons]

prob will turn into 2 years with the amount of stuff shoved in corners here lol

[@NotLatasha]

Just downloaded the pet guide thanks so much can’t wait to get started!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Welcome!!

[@helgaleifsdottir5191]

Thank you Emily you are so amazing giving artist. I am a amatör beginner painter and a big hoarder. I thought I was the only one. I am so curious to know the result of preparation from your good video in 3 lines f.ex. or anyone.😍

[@sigriston]

One of these days I’m going to get a full sheet of the REALLY expensive Arches (850gsm / 400lb) and do a crazy piece on it… but for now I’m loving working on smaller 300gsm pads (still not cheap but OK for how much I paint). 😺

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I like the idea of working your way up to something larger! :)

[@maryannegunter115]

With arches, I paint on both sides, as I practice alot.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Yes, I love that about Arches!

[@MajeedaArt]

I'm somewhat new to painting especially in the style of landscape portraits as I've been an illustrator for much longer but I find that I'm less hesitant to use my pricer water color paper when I purchase smaller sizes vs a large canvas or paper. smaller canvas are still a nice quality but cost a bit less due to the size which helps reduce the fear concern of using it, and mistakes I plan to experiment a bit more with larger sizes as I built my confidence and develop my skillset. these tips are great some I'm familiar with others I didn't know, thanks for sharing! ☮️

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks for the nice comment! Yes, using smaller pads can offer great opportunities to practice before working up to larger sizes.

[@bonnieodonnell2780]

Wow, you are so talented.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thank you! 😊

[@jo-annejacques5400]

Such helpful information, thank you.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so welcome!

[@iamhuman145]

Very helpful, thank you! 😍

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Glad it was helpful!

[@desertnaturealliance]

Yay KZbin! Thank you for putting this video in my loop! She’s fantastic! Subscribed💚🌵👍

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks so much!

[@Saahrish]

Emily, thank you so so much for this video. Even though I have been painting for years I still hesitate to use my expensive watercolor paper. And I know how much better my paintings would be by using it but a part of me still goes like, “wait, are you sure you want to paint on this? Are you sure you are ready to paint on this?” This video is so helpful. Will help for sure! Thank you so much!! Can’t wait to see what next video is going to be about!!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so kind! And I am so happy this was a helpful message!

[@jazz46buster]

Thanks Emily I’m looking for some good journals - one for practise, one for travel.

[@lindamiller1921]

At about 10:21, what is “white color ground”?

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Watercolor ground is a substrate you can apply to any surface to prepare it for handling watercolor paint. I paint it onto wood boards and it’s similar to working on an Ampersand aquabord.

[@irmabecx4758]

Guilty. Mine is Canson Héritage 200 gsm cold pressed 100% cotton watercolour paper. And it's not in my closet, it's right in front of me. I even wrote "No Art Fear" on the cover... The thing is I messed the first sheet up really bad, but then I used the back of it and made a picture I was pretty pleased with. It's now wrapped as a gift to a family member. So of course I'm nervous I'm going to mess the next one up too, no? :)

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

To me that sounds like it was a success! 😉

[@judygainer1766]

The tips are so helpful to map out a process. Thank you

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Glad it was helpful!

[@loveandlife4222]

What a wonderful video! You really have thought out everything and presented so many great ideas! I would love to hear ideas of how to fix your mistakes. I always have mistakes. Thank you for all of these great tips!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks! I'll start brainstorming the next video! :)

[@sylphofthewildwoods5518]

Emily, you are a great encourager and a very talented teacher of all things watercolor. Your paintings are fabulous. Thank you, so much!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so welcome!

[@watercolorpaintingintheaft9142]

I do have expensive paper fear! I like this approach. I'm not a pro and sometimes, I just want to play. I don't use expensive paper for that. But I'm going to try harder to do more of this. Thanks!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so welcome!

[@cherylambrose6522]

This is brilliant. I’m so guilty of hoarding quality art materials.

[@joycekowbelharvey4816]

Thank you so much Emily. Love your video. Very helpful.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

My pleasure!

[@mchris1020]

Great tips! Thank you.

[@mo-mo-p5t]

I’m new to your channel and new to watercolor and appreciate seeing the steps you took on a painting that is naturally very special to you. The finished piece is beautiful! Your daughter is beautiful! Thank you 😊

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thank you so much!

[@LittleBigHouse1]

I've been trying to find your video on oil paint you can use water with???!!!Wow I'd like to see it again

[@natlisan]

Another great informative video Emily! I personally have never been "precious" with my paper and materials! I do as you say though, put a lot of time in prepping, be it editing the reference image or creating a few comp mockups before I pick up a pencil/brush. I don't really do thumbnails or colour swathing before hand though! I like to be a little spontaneous with that aspect of the process! Thank god that in my 20 plus years of painting I've only had a handful of "FAILED" paintings!!!!! 😉🤞🏼

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Awesome! Sounds like you are living your best artist's life!

[@evelyne7071]

Very encouraging. Beautiful examples of techniques. Thank you.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@CuriousCalligrapher]

I needed this post!

[@lisajensen1843]

Such a great video for a bunch of reasons! I had no idea those watercolor panels existed 🙄. I’ve been gluing my own which is just another level of fear! Great content! Thanks👩‍🎨🐴

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so welcome!

[@Camila-db1oi]

What a wonderful, informative video!! Thank you for sharing this with us!!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

My pleasure!

[@tracyphoenix8]

These are great advices. I have a few Arches watercolor pads and other brand very good 100% cotton paper. Do they expire? I've been holding off using them until I've actually have some experience watercoloring on cheaper 100% cotton paper.

[@sofiazimmer9594]

I really like these type of videos, Emily! But I would also aprecciate if you do more beginners-friendly videos, like tutorials, exercises and what materials to use! Love your channel!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks for the feedback, Sofia! 👍

[@pintsizestories196]

This is a great video. I really like the advice to plan and practice before diving in with the final painting.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Thanks, Jennifer! Glad it was helpful!

[@davidmccullough6600]

I honestly thought it was just me who was hesitant about using my more expensive paper. Recently, I've been using 40% off coupons to buy Arches from Michael's and somehow that has made it easier for me to take the risk of using it. I can confirm that better quality paper does make a big difference in the experience and final results of painting, even for a beginner like me. Thanks, Emily, for the encouragement

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I STILL hesitate sometimes! 😂 Yes, getting a good deal definitely helps!

[@seahorse5689]

I can so relate to this topic--thank you for addressing it on your channel. Super helpful!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You're so welcome!

[@UraniaOfTheGalaxy]

I didn't even know about the Artefex Chartapanel Arches paper panel, but I'll have to wait until my ship comes in!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

They are dreamy!

[@matsf8268]

Yup, still trying to 'improve' before using my archers paper 😂

[@kimsmart263]

This was so helpful and interesting! I feel terrified to use my really good paper and these steps are so helpful! Definitely going to use these tips for my next painting!! Thank you 😊

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

So glad you enjoyed!

[@sharonsunshine2532]

Great advice ! Thanks🥰👍

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

You are so welcome!

[@OkieSketcher1949]

I haven’t used much ‘high dollar’ water color paper over the years. Just could not afford it. I have started looking for less expensive 100% cotton papers in hopes of getting better results. Hasn’t always worked out that way. I am finding some of the 100% cotton papers, especially the Hot Press ones, do not handle tape very well. I’ve tried several tapes from good old fashioned masking tape, to architect’s tape, to blue painter’s tape, to so-called ‘artist’s tape’ and found no matter how gentle I remove the tape a lot of cotton comes with tape. I now wet both sides of my paper, along with the surface of the board I use to hold the paper and gently lay the paper onto the board. I try to finish the work before everything dries out. Once completed, I let everything dry. The paper lifts off the board easily. If there is a warp or a buckle, I lay the paper painted side down onto a flat board with a layer of paper kitchen towels, mist the entire backside of the work, lay another layer of kitchen towels over the work, then place another flat board on top of that followed by several books for weight. I allow it to dry overnight. The next day all buckles and warps are gone.-OkieSketcher1949😊

[@Mommaoftwokiddos]

Try using a hair dryer on the tape before removal. That’s what I do and it comes off perfectly and easily.

[@LuisAlvaradoR]

Parece que me has leído la mente!!!!!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Gracias!

[@rhondagarrett3976]

I would still love some instruction on using photoshop to create prints. I don’t have photoshop and I’ve been trying to decide if it’s a necessity. I have a MAC which allows some editing. TY!

[@veronicaalvarado979]

Wow genial…

[@kidicarus2215]

Thanks for this video. I've tried using expensive paper after using less expensive paper, and the size (area) and sizing often feels off. Working bigger and faster feels a lot different than working at sketchbook size. I know I have to take risks though, as unused supplies just go to waste.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Yes, working larger is SO much different! Quite the adrenaline rush!

[@suzi-ml8ep]

what's the difference between watercolour blocks and pads? like arches one i don't know what is the difference, also what is the board you stick the watercolour paper to? I don't know what it is called, and I want to find a cheap board to stick the paper to? Can you paint on the 300gsm blocks without removing it? Won't the water go through and ruin the layer of paper below? please help.. thanks Is it better to draw on paper then move to the watercolour paper, or drawing directing is ok? will the erasing, and pencil smudging damage the paper?

[@DeannaSt]

Oh, wow! I’m a professional artist and did everything imaginable throughout my professional life but abandoned watercolour in high-school actually, in favour of painting in oils, acrylics, pastels, illustration, posters, drawings, printmaking (litho, etching, silk screeners etc ) sculpture in sandstone and clay and wood, ceramics, slumped glass design, computer graphics, photography … you name it. Then few years ago suddenly , I started sort of getting nostalgic and bought some watercolour paints and brushes and paper and made about 10 very bad and ugly watercolours- realising how one could lose certain abilities due to lack of practice 😂 But I wouldn’t be able for my life to do the amount of studies I’ve seen you making in this video because by the time I’m supposed to do the actual work, I would be so bored with the subject that I would go somewhere and do something else instead… For me spontaneity is key, so if I do sketching before the work it’s usually one or two sketches using a pencil and that’s about it. 😊 If I don’t stop there I’m bored out of my mind when I’m starting the final work and I will abandon it halfway through rather , it wouldn’t have spontaneity and freshness anymore. I envy people who can do a lot of studies before the actual painting - because I can’t. 😃

[@DianeAntoneStudio]

Along with the wasted paint that stays in the tube, I’d like to add: - There’s nothing more expensive than unused watercolor paper! I have quite a few sheets of expensive paper that I was given which the previous owner had not wanted to “waste” and now a lot of it is useless as the sizing has degraded. Duh!

[@PatriciaPageMosaicArtsCrafts]

Love your channel ❤

[@whatifitnt]

What is the difference between ‘degraded’ sizing and soaking paper? Thanks... I’m one of your subbies, too 😁 You guys are great and sooo appreciated. 💖

[@amypanddirtytoo1926]

@What If think of it as "rotting away". Over time the sizing disintegrates. When you soak the paper nothing happens to the sizing, it is still in/on the paper as ot is embedded in the fibers. You can use gelatin and size it again if it has been too long, but it's not the same.

[@DianeAntoneStudio]

@@amypanddirtytoo1926 great explanation, thanks!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Oh such a great point! Thanks for sharing that!

[@muhlenstedt]

Hallo, do the watercolor pannels need a glas to protect and to avoid discoloration of the paints? Thank you!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Generally, yes--watercolors are framed behind glass. You CAN use a watercolor varnish if you wish to hang them unframed. I use a Krylon varnish.

[@muhlenstedt]

@@EmilyOlsonArt brilliant idea!Thank you very much.

[@leah492]

Hi Emily, something recently that happened with one of my cotton blocks is that it appears the sizing was affected so that my dried watercolor is spotty and looks really weird. I know that if you erase too much that can affect sizing on the surface. I also did some research and apparently age / storage conditions of paper can affect the sizing too! This block was "new" though definitely a year old + since I was saving it for "nicer" pieces. Now I'm frustrated with how the paper is performing. I'm not sure if age did affect this paper or if it was messed up to begin with, but another reason to not hang on to cotton paper!

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Oh that’s interesting! I wonder if the paper underneath is better?

[@roxyjohnson5112]

I also paint with acrylics so I can just gesso over it and start again.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

That’s definitely an advantage of the medium!

[@NadiraJamal]

My breakthrough was realizing that if I don’t use my good paper and I’m not happy with the painting, I can’t know if the paper was the problem, or something else. If I use the good stuff, then, at least I can rule that out.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Yes, so true! If you can rule out one issue, you can focus on other things!

[@simonettahelena986]

Hi Emily, Thank you for another great video. This is really a good topic. I suffer so much phobia about using my best wc paper that my husband keeps buying more for me and tells me to “just light the first page on fire already!” Sacrelige! But slowly I’m coming around. And I have discovered the same truth as clemlank9069 (one of your commenters): the best paper is really very forgiving. They all have their own distinct personalities, but we will never learn what those are if we don’t use their paper. Then, once we figure out their pros and cons, we can better do preparatory work like that you described in this video. For example, I now know that anything I plan to paint that I’m on unsure ground and may have a tendency to overwork, I’ll stick with the 300 lb version of NYC cold pressed, Arches, and Saunders Waterford, but I will save my Khadi paper for things that I know I’ll have less of a tendency to overwork. I’ll use my hot press, all brands, for botanical studies and portraits, but for the most important of these, I’ll use Arches and Saunders Waterford, and so forth.

[@paulwoodford1984]

Daughter is a cutie

[@PaulDrawsArt-c4o]

In the blue watercolor did you sketch it out first

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Yes! I almost always sketch first. 🙂

[@euamoflash]

I definitely do not have the level of expertise you do! 😳

[@LyubomirIko]

The only way I deal with this is to have more expensive paper/material. It's very bad for the budget but if I have not 5 sheet of papers but 50 or more - I loosen up.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

So true--when we feel like there is a surplus of supplies, we're less precious with them!

[@PinkWytchBytch]

I DEFINITELY approach using high quality paper as fearful, because I am not capable of getting my own supplies (health issues won’t let me work, nowhere will hire someone who has these kind of health problems) I try to conserve it and I make sure not to use it if I feel it would be a waste

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

That's so hard! I'm glad you're able to paint--such a positive thing when we're experiencing health issues.

[@4nikkimay]

Yep it is in the closet collecting dust. I finally used some Tim Holtz watercolor paper today after having them for years…

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Ooooh! Time to pull it out and have a paint party!

[@Pyroific]

I find myself wanting to practice using the same quality paper that i'll be doing finished paintings on, since pulp papers behave so differently than cotton but then i dont want to waste the cotton paper just doing simple exercises 😭

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I feel the same way! It's hard to go back to cheap paper!

[@andreagriffiths3512]

Work passed the ugly phase - aye I need work on this…and really as a complete beginner, every step is hard. I can, however, lay down a nice transitioning wash, so that’s something.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Yes! That "ugly phase" can be difficult to work through, but so worth it!

[@ChristinaTodd1970]

I've got the paper, 20 sheets of Winsor Newton professional and 3 sheets left of Arches, both 140lb cold press. What I don't have is anything to stretch it on beyond 9x11. I really want to start painting bigger but can't afford three Gator Board at this season in my life. Any cheap alternatives? Anyone?

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

A gator board is a good investment--you can use it over and over for many years! I'm not sure of a cheaper alternative, but any board that's waterproof would work. :)

[@ChristinaTodd1970]

@@EmilyOlsonArt Thanks Emily

[@HeatherValentineMsFoodie]

I am a lover of creative but I do not know how to sketch and paint things. I just know how to lay down color 😂 after painting on regular watercolor paper. I bought some of the expensive paper and now I hate the cheap paper!!! Even just practicing or doodling, my preference is the expensive paper.😂😊 I need to stop with my crazy expensive hobbies 🙄❤❤❤❤

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Once you've tried the good stuff you can never go back! 😂

[@essietangle9931]

What…you must have 👀ed in my closet…that in the corner…..ok journals too.☺️

[@mcfar538]

I'm trying but having problems with some detail work. I have tremors. Not horrible but enough to prevent straight lines and fine details. I've followed some of your videos. They certainly don't look as nice as yours but are good in its own way. I've tried propranolol, Cala-Trio (tens unit for your hands) and relaxation before painting. The relaxation works, somewhat, when done periodically through my sessions. I'm thinking the Mahl stick may help a little. I find myself gripping the pencils and brushes tightly trying to get straight lines and details lightly drawing and painting. That takes a lot out of me. Do you have any suggestions? I want to join but am sad as I love art and don't want to give it up. The tremors may win out. Your short videos takes me 4 times longer.

[@mcfar538]

Sorry for the bad grammar in the message. I actually have good grammar lol.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I am so sorry you are struggling with tremors! That must be so frustrating. Definitely being able to rest your hand on something will help! Have you tried painting larger? With nice big brushes? It might be rather freeing using a looser (more arm driven) painting style. Keep at it! I'm so impressed you are painting through this. 💗

[@tthomas184]

A maul stick will definitely help with details as it gives something to rest your hands on. You might also want to make a bridge. That's basically taking something such as a wooden ruler or yardstick, or any long thin flat piece of wood cut to whatever length is convenient, then gluing small blocks of wood or rubber to raise it off the surface of your work. Mine is 16" x 2" x 1/8" from wood I bought at a craft store. It's raised 3/4" off the surface with 3 rubber blocks, cut from erasers. One at each end, one in the middle. If it were longer I would have put in more. I use it like a ruler, using the edge for the ferrule of the brush and my hand resting on it to keep the brush height consistent. Just take some cheap paper of any kind, and practice making lines with it. I also use the bridge for details too, since I don't have to maneuver it like a maul stick. It's really handy.

[@mcfar538]

@@EmilyOlsonArt Thank you. It can be very frustrating. I don't have the space to draw/paint larger. I saw a video on an artist who does that. I am going to try the stick. The tremors can be very unforgiving.

[@mcfar538]

@@tthomas184 A bridge. That's a brilliant idea. I'm going to try that as well. Trying to hold my brush or pencil steady can get the best of me but I just push through. Sometimes my art suffers lol. Most of the time it's ok. It does take me a considerable amount of time to complete my work though. Thank you for the advice.

[@danieldavisart]

I like to paint large pieces, and stretch from a roll. While I worry about messing up a large expensive piece of paper, that is nothing compared to the fear of messing up a piece that has 50+ hours in it....

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Oh my goodness, so true! Still--50+ hours in you've been gaining valuable practice time! 😉

[@danieldavisart]

@@EmilyOlsonArt I'll have to remember that silver lining next time! Thanks for sharing. I've used an iron before and have had similar results. I saw a video where a botanical artist wet her paper from behind until it was soaked, then placed it on a large window so it adhered with just the moisture, then taped the edges with butchers tape and let dry. Haven't tried it but it looked promising. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGqapWmClLZmn5o (at the 12:00 mark)

[@judymills873]

I don’t know what I’m doing wrong but when I stretch paper, it always buckles and the tape lifts

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

I struggled with this too--I know there are many watercolor artists who successfully use tape. Staples tend to work best for me.

[@judymills873]

@@EmilyOlsonArt I’ll try that! Thank you.

[@budyn1412]

For me the easiest thing is to just dive in. Art supplies sitting in the closet are no less wasted than ones that might end up in the garbage.

[@EmilyOlsonArt]

Totally agree!

[@admiralkathryn]

I’m definitely one of those people who want the good stuff then get scared to use it 🤣🤣🤣 now if someone could tell me how to use the rice paper that someone sent me to watercolor on that would be great 🤣🤣