Stretching Watercolor Paper With Gummed Tape (Easy!)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Have you tried stretching your paper? Let me know in the comments!

[@sandraocallaghan8616]

In the Studio with Michele Webber yes, worked a treat, thanks.

[@annakoch9972]

OMG! I is doing it right now. I have mostly paint on paper pads with gummed sides before. My two long haired cats turn up in the kitchen and sitting on each chair beside me and their fur is flying in the air. In the water bowl, under the tape, in my mouth, on the wet paper... and then they start fighting over some cat nip leftover they found. Ok, if this turn out good any how, I can continue with stretching my watercolor paper, I know how. 😄

[@davidallsebrook8523]

I have tried your method a couple of times. When the paper dries it tears the brown paper tape at the edge of the watercolour paper. I am impressed by the force of it. Am going to try next time with two layers of tape. Thank you for your excellent videos.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

@@davidallsebrook8523 thanks 😄 Try soaking the paper for a little less time it may be over expanding 🙂

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

@@annakoch9972 I just found this comment, kitties sound hilarious 😅

[@thesilverpen]

Your videos taught me the benefits of stretching paper, and it proved quite helpful. The difference is really worth the effort. I dont plan on ever painting a project unless i stretch it first. I save unstretched for swatching small samples.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Great to hear!

[@myrnalandersartist]

Best video I've seen for this technique!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wow, thanks!

[@impish22]

Really one of the best videos about watercolor stretching... very thorough.. and so glad you showed how to remove it also... Thank you so much..!!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Cre-Art]

You make an important point about the gummed tape: Cover more than 1/4" all around. This isn't about how the edges will look, it's about having enough coverage to resist the expansion/contraction. These details matter. :)

[@kylerathdesign]

Running the paper through a thin layer of water in a clean bath/tray/sink means you don’t need to worry about coating it with a sponge which means a) the paper is coated more equally/evenly b) you don’t need a separate sponge and bowl for the paper and gum c) no rubbing from the sponge means you preserve the sizing d) quite a bit quicker too.

[@DavidStockford]

Great demo. Your delivery in this is much more relaxed and less clipped than your recent videos

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Is it? I'm a bit hyper that's the trouble, sometimes I keep a lid on it!

[@gailgreenberg-7099]

Going to give this a try, something I’ve been thinking of doing yet I’ve been procrastinating!

[@paull4048]

Was initially going to try watercolor paints (tube), but after watching A LOT of your videos, I have become entranced by watercolor pencils. I absolutely adore your videos. I don’t think I would have tried, or had much enthusiasm, had I not discovered you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your guidance. You are simply amazing!!!!!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much!

[@gorway7]

High Michele, I did stretch for many years and used to like the ritual of it. I did get weary of it though and as an amateur, I have never displayed or even mounted my work, so as I only work on 1/8 sheet now, I tend to just use masking tape. I like the nice white border and the fact I'm not losing too much paintable surface. I find at this size, buckling is not too bad and if I do get much, I just wet the back and stick it under a board for a few days with a brick on it. I did once try method of placing a soaked sheet onto an acrylic board and just placing some bulldog clips around it... works really well for wet in wet landscapes but you have to get used to working to the moisture level as it dries. That method uses the suction of the wet paper to hold it flat but means any sketching has to be done before soaking.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi Peter, I stretch lots of boards at one time, it seems easier that way, but whatever works for you is good!

[@appleknocker56]

Since I paint for relaxation and due to failed neck surgery I’m starting to use 640lb paper which can wet, put on my lil board (let that dry) & then put tape around it! Do wish could do it the proper way but must improvise 😊.

[@keeponkeepinon9363]

Thank You, Thank You and Thank You for this direct and easy tutorial on how to stretch watercolor paper as well as what is normal to expect during the process!!! Finally, a no-nonsense tutorial ❤

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@monopinion8799]

‘I seem to depend more on you with the info than the books. You clarify what the book’s info is about convoluted as vegetarian soup. Thank you for your wonderful patience an inspiration for so many of us.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

What a fun expression, I don't eat meat so all the soup I make is vegetarian! So pleased you are enjoying the videos ☺️

[@DeidreL9]

Way more sensible than anything else I’ve seen. I’m currently working on something I stretched and I was worried I’d done it all wrong, but watching this I know I haven’t. To me it’s half the fun of starting a new piece, getting everything prepped. Gives me time to think about the paper and daydream. Thank you! This is great🌹

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Nothing better than a new sheet of paper!

[@deannatonn8570]

I have never tried stretching the paper and honestly because I'm a hobby painter but after watching this will try it. I tend to paint smaller sized projects and am assuming that I could use a larger piece for several of them and cut them off. One thing I can see is needing to be careful of hands touching the rest of the paper if using for multiple projects. Thanks Michelle for this easy approach !!!

[@judetoone9275]

Thanks Michelle - I was trying to remember exactly how you showed us in class, ended up watching loads of unsatisfactory videos so glad this is now on here next time I run out of boards!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're welcome Jude, I had meant to make this one for ages, finally got round to it!

[@zerogscott2976]

What kind of wood is your board? Getting a wood that doesn't bend is important. I noticed you wrote the frame standard on the board? That a really good idea, hadn't thought of that. How many stretched boards do you usually have running at a time? Interesting that you don't take the tape edges off, my ocd started twitching at that moment, but certainly a practical solution. The sponges area a good idea too, I forget about them. Quick way to get the water applied in the timely manner that's needed. Really enjoy your experience and what you have to say, very helpful. Thank you very much!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I use both MDF and ply. Ply does warp, but not a great deal. MDF stays true but can be very heavy at large sizes. I have about 10 - 15 boards in total. I have set sizes to fit set frames, that way I can swap work out if it doesn't sell in galleries and put it in my online shop. Glad you found it useful ☺️

[@susanhamilton3212]

I'm so pleased with my perfectly flat paintings now & feel ridiculously professional while doing the stretching process which is also fun. I sometimes have 2 or 3 on the go at once so sometimes use a glass .chopping board as well as my wooden one and although it's a bit heavy it works for quick paintings done on the table, i.e. it's not going to work for an easel.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wow, I'm amazed the tape sticks to glass 🙂

[@susanhamilton3212]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber I was surprised too - this is the same gummed paper. Nice & easy to soak off in an inch of water in the sink afterwards.

[@anneyoung6398]

I have watched lots of videos on stretching paper and did try and fail miserably. This looks great. Clear, detailed and do-able! Off to look for boards. Thanks, Michele.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You can do it!

[@artistpriyankajadhav]

This is the only realistic video I have ever seen about stretching the watercolor paper.. I have seen many videos where they show taking the paper tape off the watercolor paper so easily after it's all stretched and dry but in real the paper tape just doesn't come off at all.. Thanks for this video 😊👍

[@Pebblesmas]

Thank you so much, what a clear video, your channel is so helpful, learn so much, thx so much. You are a brilliant instructor.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching!

[@stevenjohnson7086]

I’ve never heard of stretching the paper. Any water color paints I’ve done (ah… like 4? ) I assumed I would need to take a steam iron to it later. Not to worry, however, as those paintings were quietly discarded decades ago in a cascade of self-deprecating assessments :) But this is great to learn about. I am really enjoying spending time on your channel, notably so are your quips that are sort of pleasantly scattered in the lecture. 😊

[@thesilverpen]

this is the first I heard of this. Sounds like it is the answer to my paper warping so much.

[@kylerathdesign]

100% would recommend wetting the gummed paper again, once you’re done, to remove it from the board. The build up eventually means that the edges of your watercolour paper, that might overlap on the old gummed paper, don’t fit snugly to the board and you don’t get as tight of a stretch.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are right of course, I never find the time mind you!

[@wendymaddock7705]

Thankyou for showing what you do xx 😘

[@venusiandesigns]

Thank you I’m just stating to work with watercolors and did not know about stretching the paper.

[@peggydid]

This is brilliant! Thanks, Michelle!

[@mycupoftea12]

This is so helpful. I had no idea that we should stretch. You are so knowledgeable and I'm so grateful you share such necessary information. Thank you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@markdonovan1540]

Thank you for this excellent demo and explanation. I'm new to painting, even art in general, so this is really helpful. I've tried a few different methods for this, but never really got it right. This video has helped me understand why, so I can now do a better job of preparing paper for painting.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@tiffanyhohmannjacobsen7858]

I love how you admit to your OCD LOL I'm not the only one. I don't have a designated studio just a small bedroom and a board. So I get pretty OCD about supplies and where to keep them. Thank you for your help and suggestions.

[@jamier.cheney9086]

Just getting to try this. Took a while cause I'm working on branding my art as cruelty-free and as environmentally-minded as possible. I used Fabriano Artistico 300lb cold-pressed paper, a sanded down shelve from a old book case, a cruelty-free sponge found at Trader Joe's, and Gummed Tape from EcoEnclose.

[@roxy5154]

Awesome thank you Michelle! Practical, efficient and effective.

[@user-mr8zh2pq6w]

Thank you Michele for this awesome video. Your instructions are so clear & I always love your comments about the British weather (I am in Canada.). You are just the best!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much!

[@KayemGenmo]

I got mdf board. 1/8" ... It seemed smooth -ish so I sanded it with rough sandpaper over 2" on both sides. Trying them out today.

[@IsleofWightBushcraft]

I sometimes soak mine in a clean bath for 5 mins. Overkill maybe, it works though. As usual, very informative Michelle, liking your channel, and your no nonsense approach. 👍

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

It's fine to soak, as long as it doesn't remove the sizing. No nonsense is my middle name 😆

[@sandraocallaghan8616]

Happy days, common sense and clear diction.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

And I grew up in London :-)

[@D9david]

Thanks Michele!

[@MelanCholy2001]

You gave me the beaches (though I'm working on a particularly crazy, gray/purplish "beach" in some rocky desert at sunset with a lion in it, *but* you gave me a breakthrough!), and the mixing grays, and some other tips I just saw, but mostly you're making me laugh a lot with the "cat magnet" board. #TRUE 😂 I think I'm going to just allow a cat hair here and there because my puffy puddins apparently want to be PART of the art. _Can't get the cat when he's got a vet appointment? Break out the watercolors!_ 😂😂😂

[@CatherineLB6279]

Excellent instructions and commentary.

[@susanhunter4173]

I live in a dry, desert climate where the humidity is frequently in the single digits (F). Paper gets DRY and so does the brown craft tape, I gave up on it because it lifted, often unevenly, even when the tape and watercolor paper were quite wet at the start. The rolls of tape do not uncurl well either. I went back to blocks for most of my work.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Interesting. I think staples are an alternative people use, which might work for you.

[@jamessamy]

Thank you for the tips and how to stretch the water color paper

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are most welcome ☺️

[@cynthialoza6295]

Much thanks, Michelle!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Any time!

[@anne-mariemarshall3105]

I have tried many times to stretch watercolour paper without success. The paper has buckled and the brown tape has just come away from it. I use heavier weight paper now. However, you have made this look so easy, I might have another go using much wider tape, which I think may have been part of the problem. Great demo.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks, yes it's often the tape, it needs a lot to withstand the pulling as the paper dries.

[@LillithLeonard]

Practical tip: I have cats.🐱 I got some cheap baking racks, which I place over the paper/painting in between washes. 💡 They don't mess with it then. Thank you for sharing your expertise and experience in this. I just picked up the brush after a couple of decades, so I'm working on Canson 140 lb/300 g paper for the time being. I don't have gummed tape (yet), so I've been using frog tape. Haven't been able to get the paper to stay flat yet, but I also have been using a minimum of tape (about 1/2") on the edge of the paper. I think that's the real problem. 🤔

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for the cat tip! An adhesive tape is not good at sticking wet paper, so gummed tape should work for you :-)

[@kyliemartin8524]

Brilliant tutorial, thank you. xx

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You’re welcome 😊

[@urbanbeachbum2148]

Thanks for demonstrating your technique! I see lots of questions about where to get boards so thought I’d share info for what I use in the US. Dick Blick art supply sells inexpensive brown mdf boards in many different sizes. I order online, so I’m not sure if they stock in their stores. If you want a lot of boards cheaply, and want a mini-workout (but it cuts easily), a lumber store would sell huge sheets of the same mdf to cut yourself. Hope someone finds this useful!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for the recommendation, most of my viewers are in the US so that's helpful :-)

[@donnacarraway9182]

Thank you so very much! This was very clear and answered my questions! I wonder if you have ever stretched a full sheet of paper? Do you just find a really large board? Also are there types of board that are preferable? Thank you again! I’ve learned so many things from you!💕

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I did used to make paintings that large. I get my own boards cut at the DIY store. I found them physically hard to work on, as I work flat and am not tall, it was hard to reach all parts of the painting. Plus they aren't very easy to sell at that big size, because people don't have the room. I still work large, but not quite as big as a full sheet now!

[@Pebblesmas]

Thx so much 4 this very clear and complete video. I've never done it this way, but had a couple of boards from my grandfather and thought it was an oldfashioned and old, not to be used in this way nowadays, technique😂, how wrong was i, i always use painterstape and have never wet my paper, but now i understand how important that is. But can i still use paibterstape, instead if the tape you have to wet? Thx!!!!!! I forgot i already seen this video😫🫣🤭, but am curious about the tape.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

The idea is that adhesive tape doesn't stick well to wet paper, but if what you are doing works, no need to change!

[@9liveslisa]

Excellent video. Thank you so much!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're very welcome!

[@kanabapuka]

Thanks.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Welcome!

[@GKganesan]

Thank you:useful!

[@selenaferrerart]

Very helpful advice ! had no idea what gum strip was.. Im an oil painter stepping into watercolor as I aspire to create illustrations this season ! thanks for the thorough step by step guide !!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Ah, you will progress fast then! You are very welcome!

[@madelinepampel5185]

This video is such an eye-opener ! Thank you for this demo. Could you use wide masking tape for this procedure ? Or do you really need to use gummed tape ?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Masking tape is adhesive so not good at sitting on wet paper, it will also lift and tear. If you are unable to use the tape, some people staple or you can buy a stretcher board, but really it's fairly easy to get in most places, cheap too.

[@madelinepampel5185]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Thank you so much for this information.

[@crystalheart9]

Thanks so much for the tips on stretching paper. And yes as a cat owner I always have to put my artwork up while not working on it or my cat will sit or lay on it everytime.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Paper, magazines, bills, boxes... they'll sit on anything! :-)

[@crystalheart9]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber I just bought a laptop for the first time and my cat wants to walk on it!🤣😻

[@barbaradonohue1831]

Just getting started. Great demonstration of how to do this! Is the gummed paper tape acid free/archival? I can't find any information about that on line.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Probably not, if you are worried you can leave a border and cut it off before framing.

[@juancalvo9762]

I'm learning to paint with watercolors and I through recommended videos found your channel. You give specific tips that are useful for beginners in terms of pointing into correct and simple directions for experimentation. I also find your videos entertaining to watch, which helps the learning and has prevented me so far from asking too many questions. I have a specific question related to this video though. I don't know how relevant it may or may not be. What happens if I use tape that is not water activated to fix the paper on the board? I'm tempted to do so because it seems to be one of those items that are difficult to find where I live.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi Juan, good question. Some of my students have managed to get packing tape (adhesive) to stick but the problem is you are sticking to damp paper, and packing tape, even if it does stick would have to be removed, risking tearing your paper. If it works for you, then leave a border around your painting so you can cut it from the board and leave the tape behind. An alternative that some people use, which might work better for you, is to staple. You have to use quite a lot, and obviously remove them afterwards, but staples work. There are also specific paper stretching boards with clips, although this does give you less flexibility with paper size. Or you can just bulk buy gummed tape online so it lasts you.

[@juancalvo9762]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Hi Michele. Thank you for your answer. It gives me several valuable options to start painting right away, or to improvise in the eventuality that I run out of some art supplies.

[@merlenpunkt5976]

This was really helpful, thank you so much

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@PortableXombie]

Came here to learn how to stretch paper instead it was a stealth how to make a cat magnet video, bravo, bravo.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

😂 ah, got to watch those sneaky cats around your art supplies!

[@clairevoutsinas1991]

Very ,very helpful Michele,thanks again.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So pleased you enjoyed it ☺️

[@sherryjohnson7313]

WOW, beautiful 🥰

[@rachelalvarez4128]

Hello Michele. Thank you for this video. I have a few questions: 1.Can I stretch the paper after I have drawn lightly with pencil lines? Have you tried this? 2. I need to stretch a very large piece of paper (20x22") and the larges drawing board I could find has a hole cut out for the handle. Do you foresee this being an issue if the tape can be places on the other edge just past it? 3. I have brown gummed tape that is used for shipping (the type with thin strings inside to keep it from tearing during shipments) Is this a workable replacement for the brown gummed tape you show here? I'm wondering if there may be acid in the glue. Thank you for your time!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi, I haven't tried stretching paper after drawing pencil lines but fear it may distort the drawing. I don't think a small hole in the board would matter as long as you didn't press hard on that part as obviously you could push through. Not all gummed tape is acid free anyway. If it bothers you, you could always leave a border and cut it off afterwards.

[@stephenwelham]

paper strecthing without gum tape use use plastic folder spines you place the size water colour paper on a suitable board then use the slide onthe folder spines and as micehelle says wet the paper and leave it to dry this method can be used not wetting the paper and is very useful for pelin air sketching and painting as it is quick and very effective another tip is to use 200lb watercolour paper as it doesnt buckle as easely as 140lb

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Great tip :-)

[@D9david]

Thanks!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you David!

[@parsleybrain]

Thank you so much, Michele, for pointing out that the gummed tape doesn't hold on smooth surface. I was getting really frustrated because I tried so many surfaces and the tape never did hold. Some tutorials even say you can stretch your paper on plexi glas. I tried it but the tape doesn't hold. I will go and buy wood boards. Again, thank you very much.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem at all!

[@101mosioatunya]

This is such good instruction. I'm off to stretch a sheet of 300gsm watercolour paper right now! :-)

[@Kdogpiper]

Hi Michelle, I love your videos! One quick thing, the link in this video for the gummed tape seems to not work, at least where I'm located. Are you still using the same gummed tape? Thank you, again!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Unfortunately links break on the internet. I use any gummed tape I can find, 5cm width. Amazon or art suppliers sell it, sometimes office supplies too, which can be cheaper.

[@Kdogpiper]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber - Thanks for the tip! Cheers!

[@JennyEverywhere]

So sorry for the necropost, but I'm having a bit of an issue with the drawing board part. If I want to go to the hardware store or the lumber yard, what would I look for or ask for? Or is this a sooper speshul kind of board that can only be found at art supply stores? We have a chain called Michaels here in the US, a large place with all sorts of crafts and art supplies. Finding a board suitable for stretching watercolor paper seems to be as rare as finding Kryptonite. And when you DO find something that you think might work, it costs as much as your weekly groceries. I did find a 1/2" thick foam-core board that *claims* it can be used to stretch watercolor paper, but I find it somewhat dubious. A single sheet at 20"x30" costs about $25 on Amazon, and I've heard tales that they arrive so battered they're useless even as foam-core. There's another brand by Elmer's, the glue company, that costs a lot less IF you buy it in the store, such as the aforementioned Michaels. About $8.00 if I remember correctly. But what it doesn't say in the advert is whether or not it's the same as the other sort and can be used to stretch watercolor paper! Also, I wonder about cutting the paper off the board when you're done. It seems you'd have to be awfully careful not to score so deeply into the board that you have to use it for a smaller size paper the next time. Can anyone give me some advice on the whole where to find usable drawing boards that will work well and I can follow the advice and buy several without having to take out a mortgage to pay for it all? I'm tempted to stick to paper blocks, except I'm seeing some say that you STILL should cut the page free and stretch it just like loose sheet or pad paper! I'm so confused!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Paper blocks aren't always stretched, and how well they hold shape depends on how much water you use and other factors, if you get on well with them then that's fine. For boards in the UK I use plywood, or mdf. I even grabbed a few boards out of an old fitted wardrobe/cupboard I was pulling down once (made of plywood), so that's an option if you want to go skip diving as they call it here in the uk. I usually just buy mine from the hardware store, it's cheap and they cut it into sheets, you get a few cuts for free. In the US lots of people use Gatorboard (although I only have a vague idea of what that is). I think when people use the foam core boards they staple instead of tape, you can also try strong clips. If using ply it's very rough along the edges so you need to put some gummed tape round in order to avoid splinters, if it's reclaimed and has been waxed or oiled give it a sand so the tape doesn't slip.

[@JennyEverywhere]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Thank you so much for the suggestions! That helps a lot. Gator Board, from what I gather, is this 1/2" foam-core board I referred to. It has a plastic surface instead of poster paper, so it's completely waterproof and won't get soggy or come off in strips. At least, that's what I'm seeing. But it's also HIDEOUSLY expensive, even in the stores. So I think I'll do as you suggest and get a few pieces of plywood, and I'll sand the edges smooth and do something to keep from savaging my hands on rough wood. I just got some nice brushes -- squirrel hair for the larger rounds, and Kolinsky sable (at least they SAY it is) for the smaller brushes. I'm sure I'll find that I only use a few of them, but these sets (probably student grade) are cheaper than buying individual brushes. I bought one #3 rigger that's as expensive as either of the sets. I'm going to assume it's a higher grade than the sets. So I'm going to dive in and start practicing! I got my paper, I got my paint, I got my brushes, time to make some paper wet!

[@nancywillette8762]

Great info but a couple of questions…are you drawing boards random sizes or specific sizes based on your finished painting size? I ask because you folded your watercolor paper and cut it to fit your board and then once it’s stretched, and the tape remains in place, for framing, are you customizing your frame sizes or using standard frame sizes?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I use custom frame sizes, but a selection of sizes that are always the same if that makes sense. So yes my boards are sized so that they fit certain sizes and mounts (mats). This enables me to swap work between frames even though they are bespoke made.

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

I have tried to stretch my paper before to no avail. Your way of stretching is much easier and better than the dipping method I tried. I have got a question: Do all weights of watercolor paper get stretched or is it just heavyweight paper? Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I like to stretch all paper, but some people skip it for a heavy weight, but you can probably only get away with that if you are painting something like botanicals and not throwing a lot of water around.

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Okay thanks for the information.

[@tribalstyle138]

Does stretching make it bigger? I just got back to my small apartment with a deal on a large piece of arches. I don't have a large surface to put it on and don't mind buckling honestly (I spray the back). But if it gets me more paper.... I'll cut it up and stretch those. Thoughts please? :D

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Honestly it's a small difference :-)

[@SophieBird07]

How to catch a cat... start a painting project.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So true!

[@mo-mo-p5t]

So funny!

[@marcwheeler4406]

Hi michelle I finally was able to cut my roll of my arches roll down a bit I cut 15(48inchs by 28 first) sheets whew that was a girgourmoumous process...lol... then I preceded to cut this sheets into smaller sizes such as 18 by 12inchs, 10 inchs by 10 inchs and 6x8 inchs and a bit smaller I've gotten many multi sizes I want to flatten them so I can actully but some in a old computer tablet cover and I also found a couple of old calendars "pocket size" I found laying around house as I dont have card board that is vegan leather believe it or not ...lol they were a promotional pocket calendar I thought I used sometime so I never threw away.. I'd like them for the inner covers to hold WC paper in, the covers have slots so I thought I could slide sheets into then when I want to paint I could pull out and have a small harder area to lay the paper on when I'm out about , but the paper is laying in a cylinder shape not real tight like the roll but it rolls at end... I was hoping I could just use water sponge to lay them flat than iron them laying in between a wet light wet cloth towel than maybe iron them on low setting to straighten them out...than tape them down after on the only thing I have is I only have one plastic cutting board, (cutting board was the only board I could find)I heard if you leave WC paper on cardboard for any length it turns it yellow is that true? ..wood is in very short supply here in my area and the board like you were using in video that piece of wood would go for a expansive price right now.. even if I was even able to find it at my hardware store probably for fifty or 6o dollars....I'm not selling any of my art work I would just like to paint on my quality WC paper as I'm little bit older and living in a chaotic challenging country things have taken longer than usually for me to accomplish thought I'd have more practice in by now on WC paper, but like you said wait for what you need dont rush process.. I don't want to ruin the seizing...lol but is it possible to do this way fir many many multi sheets, than tape more WC on top of each other on my plastic board to stretch like a cheap version of a block wc paper or no dont even attempt that idea...if I only do one WC paper at a time to stretch I probably wont paint till xmas plus I need to store these pieces I cut as I dont want them getting ruined...thanks for any advice you can help me with the cockeling?...heeheelove learning need vocab from your country I say kitchen paper,(paper towel, vacuum cleaner instead ) I say hoover all the time. ..my teen just 🙄😏 but I'm taking my smiles where I can... have a safe and a good WC painting day mikelle New York mom....😷👩‍🎨🎨

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

That's an outrageous price for a board, would cost about $5 here. There are ways of making a watercolor block by sticking together at the sides. I don't know the exact process but I bet you can find some tutorials here on KZbin English vocab! I am always picking up American phrases! X

[@natford8271]

Where do you get your boards that you stretch paper onto and what material is best for them - porous or not and so on? I have a drawing board made out of some kind of very thin MDF and another board I bought from Amazon that seems to be some kind of finished plywood. I don’t have the option of going to a hardware store myself, a) pandemic and b) disabled.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Most boards will work including MDF and Ply. I get mine cut. A lot of my students use a lightweight drawing board from the SAA. Avoid anything shiny or hardboard.

[@davec.6013]

So good! Could you direct me to the list of sizes please? What is the minimum thickness? The price really goes up the thicker the wood. I just realized having an large board and only putting one or more small papers down would ruin the next large piece of paper because the gum residue left on the wood. So I gather it is essential to have multiple boards and sizes. I haven’t started yet but I assume 5x7 or 8x10 inches are good starting sizes for beginners. Best, Dave

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I don't use set sizes, but I do have many boards. You need to think about the frames you might use (there are not really standard sizes for art frames unfortunately) also allow for your tape/border. As for thickness, the thinner the better without warping. Therefore you can go thinner with mdf than ply which tends to warp if it's too thin. I go down to about 8mm.

[@sherryjohnson7313]

The best ❣️

[@VivMBSR]

Should I stretch watercolour paper when using watercolour pencils? Love the videos

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

If you are going to use s lot of in water it won't hurt ☺️

[@alexandervapnyar1030]

if it's "still going to buckle a little bit" then would it be good enough for a large flat wash? Like a sky? And while it's sitll better than a loose sheet , will it be better than a prestreched and well glued block?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I manage, I would say stretching is a bit better than a block. If you really want to avoid buckling then combine it with a really heavy weight of paper.

[@valeriegehling4358]

You cut with scissors? I use a letter opener as I thought scissors weren’t to be used on water colour paper, I’ve only used small glued sheets but, I’m curious as to the correct way?! Thanks. I hope to find my drawing board in the cellar to use on.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

As the edges will be cut off later you can cut with anything. People use a letter opener as they want a nice edge for display.

[@valeriegehling4358]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Thank you for information.

[@markmckain9990]

Hi Michele, It have seen watercolor artists stretch paper on foam board by wetting it as you did and stapling. Do you have any comments regarding that method or have you seen stretching done that way? Thanx, Mark from near Atlanta Ga., USA

[@blindhopeDiana]

Hi Michele, do you stretch 200 lb and 300lb paper? I have found I love Saunders Waterford 200lb paper. Thankyou, Diana

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I don't use it, but I probably would, because I use a lot of water when I paint :-) I tend to use 140lb

[@pseudonamed]

So do you have to wait until the painting is finished before you remove it from the tape? Or could you remove it and then paint on it?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

It's only stretched whilst on the board so you should wait until the final layer is dry before removing.

[@adelinevinrech7049]

Cat magnet 😹 Love your videos, thank you 😉

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching Adeline :-)

[@lindapearson3926]

I will search for this later and watch it. For some reason this one keeps repeating like a song in rounds. Talking on top of yourself. And I can still hear you while the adds are playing. ????? so weird. I just found your channel a few days ago. Enjoying it so much. I have probably watched 15 so far. I have watercolor pencils, love watercolor. Found you because I googled the pencils. Now I will start to build my supplies so I can paint with what I am learning from watching you. Thank you so much, your teaching style totally suits me. The above comment about the audio issue is only to let you know. It only affected this one segment. Thank you again.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh, how strange, I know the video is fine because it's been watched thousands of times and no one has mentioned it. Mysterious computer glitch I guess! So pleased you are finding value in the videos :-)

[@marcwheeler4406]

Do u have a suggestion for trying to get tape off without exacta knife.also could I use masking tape instead of gum tape I bought masking tape for the border of the watercolor paper to paint second time watching video...lol ...mikelle, newyork strong weary mom😷👏👍🦋🎨

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

The tape can be re-wet and removed completely but of course you have to be careful with your painting. I also just used the blade of some scissors the other day when I couldn't bother to find my craft knife 🙂

[@poppyhali3648]

Is there a size below which you would not stretch your paper? I tend to work with small sizes, 2x3, 4x6, or 5x7 at most. Would you still stretch paper that small?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Your results will tell you. If the paper doesn't warp there's no point stretching :-)

[@carollycett1329]

Thanks just watched great advice

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching!

[@lisariordan2784]

Hi Michele, I’m going to stretch some paper and see how it goes. Can plexiglass be used instead of wood to stretch the paper? Lisa

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I wouldn't, simply because if it's too smooth the tape doesn't hold when the paper starts to contract and pull tight. I mean it might work, but don't be surprised if it lifts :-)

[@Mins333]

I love how clearly and in depth you explain things in your videos. This was very informative indeed. I was wondering if i could use the clear fiber glass board i had already purchased for stretching and if painters tape (3M) which is readily available here in Norway will do anyway? Thanks.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks! Any board can be used if it is water resistant, but be careful if it is very smooth/shiny. The tape is under pressure when the paper is shrinking back and if the board is really smooth it may not grip the tape enough. Self adhesive tape generally doesn't work on wet paper, but no harm in giving it a try, I know students who have managed it!

[@OkieSketcher1949]

I have tried the blue painter’s tape. If you put it on before soaking it will tend to pull away from the paper. Sometimes it will pull away from the paper and the board. If you try to put it on after soaking, it normally will not attach properly to the paper.

[@debbiemcclain3984]

My question is when we flip the paper back over so the top is up and we have taped the paper down, can we at this point do the wet on wet color, such as the sky, and then let it completely dry? Or do we have to wait till the paper is completely dry, rewet it and brush on the sky or background paint?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

In theory you could do both at once. But the amount of shrinking back would be far greater than if you just wet a portion of dry paper. If you are looking for a loose effect it should be fine. If for example you were going round buildings or a very flat horizon it would be better to wait until your paper was dry, do your drawing and proceed from there.

[@juliemorley22]

Thank you that was great! X

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@eknvasanth7245]

If you want to remove the paper tape from the board, just apply some Water on top of it and allow it to be soaked for some time. Then it will be very easy to pearl it off from the board. If you want to remove the remaining tape from the paper, you can do it in the same way, but you should be very careful while damping the tape which is on the paper. I am also an artist. My name is Vasanth. I am from India. I wish you all the best for all your future ventures. Bye.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi Vasanth, thanks for your tips :-)

[@CleverLAM]

Michele this was very well done. My question is: If you leave the tape on the painting and don't try to remove it, do you sell the paintings with the tape on edges, if they are going to mount and fame on their own? Or is their a way to remove the tape from the edge of your painting without tearing the paper or disturbing the paint? Always

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Linda. I send my work abroad, unframed. I leave the tape on and put a leaflet in that tells people not to touch the tape but leave it to the framer. If you wanted to avoid this the best way is to leave a border between the tape and the area where you paint, at least 2cm. Then you can trim the tape off and still leave room for mounting (matting).

[@lmm046]

I'm still a beginner artist and haven't made the leap to cotton paper yet. Is stretching paper still possible/recommended for wood pulp paper?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I would say it's even more important, and can make a cheap paper useable :-)

[@mariatriesart8389]

​@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Could you use it on Canson XL paper? It is cellulose paper I think....

[@1msfit]

I am just getting started and am practicing brush strokes, water control, and washes. I haven’t actually painted anything yet and have only been doing exercises on a pad of watercolor paper. This video is very informative and your directions are quite clear. Having paper mounted on a board and avoiding putting one’s hands on the paper brings a question to mind, however. I have been practicing with my pad laying flat on a table. Should I put the drawing board with the stretched paper on an easel for painting in order to keep my hand off the paper? If so, should I also be practicing with my pad elevated on an easel as the brush would presumably be held a bit differently?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I don't use an easel, although it's easier on the back and neck, watercolour is so fluid that gravity doesn't help, I tend to paint flat.

[@1msfit]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Thank you for taking the time to reply. You are so generous with your time. I hope to eventually become a Patron and repay you. Regarding my question, I think I shall stick with the flat position. I don’t have a lot of room to spare as it is so I am happy for your answer for more than one reason!

[@brucemckenziefraser139]

Hi, Michelle. Great video 👍 BTW, what's the approximate size of the finished piece you cut off the board?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I'm not sure Bruce, I have so many videos, without re-watching I couldn't say. Bigger paintings tend to be about 36cm plus and smaller ones about 20cm plus...

[@blindhopeDiana]

Hi Michele, Could I have bad or cheap gummed tape? The tape is lifting on the edges covering the paper! Ugh! Thanks, Diana

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Could be. Can also be because the tape isn't on the paper by enough, should be an overlap of half an inch. Sometimes on very big sheets where there's a lot of paper buckling it will lift in places.

[@blindhopeDiana]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber , I just ordered a gummed tape specifically for watercolor paper. Reviews were good. I will let you and your subscribers know once I try it.

[@canansaritas]

Hi Michele, thank you so much for sharing your experience and techniques, they are very helpful 🥰 Is it possible to stretch the paper by wetting it and then placing it between two clean boards with some weight on it? I can't find the water activated band and I'm too lazy to try the stapling method.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No, unfortunately because the paper is only stretched whilst held in place, so although it might initially work, it would stop working once you started painting. Plus the amount of weights necessary might flatten the fibres or leave marks. Tape is cheap and can be found mail order unless that's difficult in your part of the world 🙏

[@canansaritas]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Thank you for the quick reply 😊I'll order the tape from amazon 👍

[@pagalmasala]

lol I have 2 Persian cats that would probably have quite a fun time if I leave it on my desk! 😆

[@christinearnold-green8540]

Is there a way of getting a nice, clean & sharp finished edge to a watercolour painting?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yes, if you want that white edge, simply use a low tack tape such as washi tape inside the gummed tape edge as wide as you need it.

[@christinearnold-green8540]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber The tapes I've used just gives way to paint creep underneath. I'd guessed it wasn't tacky enough...! I'll try it in conjuction with the brown stuff you use. Thanks!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

@@christinearnold-green8540 if it's too tacky it can tear your paper. The one I found to be most reliable was actually Scotch 'magic' tape.

[@carlabravi8623]

My paintings are small. Can I stretch a large sheet of w paper and then cut it in small sizes?

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No, once it's off the board it isn't stretched anymore. However you can stretch a large sheet and divide it up with a pencil. Or stretch several small pieces on one board. Don't cut a piece of paper off the board until completely dry. You can also use a smaller 'block' paper pad which might work as well for a small size.

[@michaelthornton5113]

Do you have any hints for flatening a lumpy painting ( I wish I had seen this how to do it earlier). I've also got pastels done on WC paper that have warped.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I understand you can lightly spray the back with water then place under heavy books, but I have not done it myself.