Masking Fluid - THIS tool gives amazing results!

In this masking fluid comparison video I test 8 commonly used applicator tools and put them through their paces. Up until now the ruling pen was my favorite, but the results may change my mind. A vital video to help with your watercolor techniques, with tips for how to use properly and avoid paper ripping when painting.
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TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Introduction
2:08 Specialist Masking Fluid Brush
5:55 Embossing Tool for applying Masking Fluid
8:13 Dip Pen for applying Masking Fluid
10:27 Ruling Pen for applying Masking Fluid
12:38 Tooth Pick for applying Masking Fluid
14:03 Glass Pen for applying Masking Fluid
16:18 Silicone Blender Tool for applying Masking Fluid
17:59 Brush and Dish Soap for applying Masking Fluid
22:02 Summary
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• Masking Fluid - THIS t...

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

What's your favorite masking fluid applicator? Drawing skills are essential for neat application, try this video next: Drawing Tutorial (AVOID these 10 Beginners' Mistakes!) kzbin.info/www/bejne/jmrWd2yhequYhM0

[@annkadish9503]

I tend to work very small and was on the lookout for a masking tool that would give me fine, clean lines. My favorite is FINELINE’s Masking Fluid Pen - supernib, fine tip that gives me a o.5mm line. The applicator is actually a hyperdermic needle. The cap contains a wire that inserts into the hollow needle, keeping clogs at bay between uses. The applicator does eventually become clogged, but can be cleaned or simply replaced with a new needle. The needles are available on Amazon, 50 needles for $9.90 US. Since first using the masking fluid pen about six months ago, I’ve replaced the needle twice.

[@marlenenakai2728]

Thank you and I agree with your final choice 👍 Minimize the outcome as they say less is more!

[@bluewren65]

@@annkadish9503 i've used a needle-type applicator as well. Works really well for fine lines and dots.

[@77Avadon77]

Your Picture and Sound are perfect 5/5

[@tammiwilliams8320]

Thank you for the video. Thanks to you, I tried the embossing tool and it worked great. Very accurate application and super easy to clean up as you work.

[@tecec3503]

I use an old cheap acrylic brush, wet it and swirl it on a bar of soap. It is the size of a #1 watercolor brush. I have also thinned my masking fluid with water so it lays very thin lines. I pick up dried masking fluid with masking tape which is far easier than an eraser is. I find that the thinner masking fluid works extremely well, dries faster and is easier to get off my paper without tearing.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for the tips!

[@sallyfoley5451]

I agree with you Tece, I've used a bar of Simple soap (no dye or perfume) which works really well. I have found though that sometimes it thins the masking fluid a little too much, so be carefull not to use too much water.

[@ltlove63]

Thank you for the added advice 👍🏼👍🏼🌹🙏😉

[@michaelklein5242]

Something new to try--thanks!

[@lucilleeidse9407]

Very interesting to know masking fluid can be thinned with a bit of water- thank you for that tip!

[@mindykeys206]

Thank you so much for this. It was very helpful. I am so grateful for all the work you put into making these videos for us, it is appreciated.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

That's kind of you :-)

[@carlycharlesworth1497]

Hi Michele, thank you for doing this experiment, and for saving me from spending money needlessly. I have been thinking of getting a ruling pen, but now I will use the embossing tool I have in my nail kit. Your videos are always full of interesting things that help me tremendously. God bless you and all those you love, now and always. Have a great day!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks, you too Carly!

[@TheSebiestor]

Regarding the specialised making fluid brushes, I'd be curious if it would clean better if it was left to dry, and then peel the dried fluid off in one motion. However, the embossing tool in my opinion was best out of all of them. Really useful video though, we definitely know what not to have a go with, great time saver for us all. Btw, that looked a really long and involved video to make complete!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Ah, you have no idea, I am more video editor than artist at times!

[@karenmcmillan5608]

Love the new camera angle. Straight above your paper is terrific.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Not 100% downwards but I can tip this one further over before it defaults to the wrong dimension video format :-)

[@1msfit]

This was really interesting. I recently used masking fluid for only the second time. I have an embossing tool from past scrapbooking projects and did look at it, but just thought, “Nah, not going to work.” Guess I should try that now! What I did use was a different brand of double tipped masking fluid brush (Colour Shaper), also one silicone tip and one brush tip. The reviews on Amazon indicated buyers were confused as to what the brush was for and some used it for watercolor paint. Others thought it was supposed to be used for removing the masking fluid. I believe it was meant for MF application, and did just that and found that it worked well. To clean it, I rinsed it in water first and then used the same artist soap on it that I use for my paint brushes and that worked well. Also, regarding bubbles in the MF, another thing I learned from scrapbooking is that products that require some mixing but in which you want to avoid bubbles should just be swirled around until it is mixed-no shaking required. Thanks for all your hard work. Your videos are much appreciated.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yes, I didn't expect it to work either!

[@ellerob7292]

I’m a beginner at watercolor & recently started following your channel. I really enjoy your teaching style & personality Michelle! I love cats too! 🐈 Ellen in SC (USA)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi Ellen thanks for following 👋🐱

[@deniseracine6788]

I always enjoy your videos and find them very interesting and educational. What I don’t usually do is laugh out loud. This video was an exception. I couldn’t help laughing when you used the toothpick and the glass pen. You’re a real trooper for going through with it despite the obvious disasters!😂

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I couldn't stop once committed 😂

[@deeanncross7674]

Yay! I have 3 different sizes of embossing tools. I was considering buying a ruling pen, but will hold off for now. The silicon brushes are very easy to clean, but not my favorite. Didn't like using a dip pen at all and have never tried a soapy paint brush. So happy you experimented on behalf of us all. Great video.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No worries!

[@l.e.brentwood3137]

I prefer the ruling pen. There are several different sizes for larger and very detailed work. No problems, however I am going to try the paint brush. So many wonderful tips!

[@paulettepaulsen2336]

I really liked this comparison tutorial. Awhile back I dug out masking fluid I ordered 6 years ago (it was still good!). Tried toothpicks - nope. Tried an old brush - globbed up immediately. Then ordered a cheap nail decor set, the silicone tips were not too bad, but it included a few metal embossing tips and I like using them. Can get some really fine lines with them too.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Easy clean up too!

[@lucilleeidse9407]

Watching you go through these I felt that the embossing tool was the best option but I did go ahead and order a set of the special masking fluid brushes. I was using a small inexpensive brush dipped in dish soap but it only took one instance of being too slow to clean it before it was done so I’m happy to find other options! Thank you Michelle

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@delphinewood7519]

I laughed out loud as I listened to your way of making your points. So enlightening! Thanks for taking the time to create this comparison video. I also wanted to thank you for reminding me part way through the video to hit the thumbs up button. I wait weekly for your videos and hit play sometimes before I even hit the like button. I love all your tutorials.💙🙏🌵🌵🌵🌵🌵

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much!

[@cherylchamberlain838]

These are very good tips, Michele. Thank you ❤

[@myrajoyce3494]

Thanks Michele. Very informative and entertaining.

[@debh3404]

I love that ruling pen. Thank you!

[@DarkMoonSanctuary]

❤ I use my embossing tools and yes I appreciate the different sizes. Great video as always...

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching!

[@barbarachapman4114]

Thanks for the masking fluid lesson! I normally make a mess of it. I'm excited to try the different ways to use it.

[@mrs.m.b.3630]

Wonderful! Loved this experiment and seeing how each worked. Also your sense of humor and fairness lol. Now I know what tool I'm reaching for next time! Thank you!

[@stevekobb3850]

Helpful! Many thanks.

[@darlenedybas9706]

Thank you! Learned a lot very nicely done.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Great to hear!

[@1TimothyFourTen]

I'm really glad I came across your youtube channel and I'm very grateful for your videos and tutorials and tips and tricks, Michele!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Happy to help!

[@kristyruff5800]

Excellent content. Very helpful. Thank you 😊

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're very welcome!

[@pjprimadonna]

thanks michele for putting so much effort into this video. very helpful and very entertaining🙏

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nanwilliamson5936]

You’re so funny!! I love watching your tutorials so much!!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much!!

[@annevickers3307]

This was so helpful. I love your humor. Your funny remarks made me subscribe.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yay! Thank you!

[@christinewrestsmith6957]

Love your videos, you speak clearly and concisely and your delivery is gentle and thoughtful.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you! 😊

[@katemccarthy2463]

Hi Michelle, thank you again for a really great tutorial. I hope you get all the support in reaching your YT goals. Simply for selfish reasons I want to continue watching and learning more.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much! I'm not going anywhere :-)

[@tiffanyhohmannjacobsen7858]

Agree I love the different sizes of the tool I got when I ordered the ones that are used in acrylic nail art. They really work well, the embossing tool and make beautiful deep lines for leaves and the watercolor settles into the lines. Lovely lovely

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yes they do

[@aliciashackley5830]

As expected great video with lots of useful points. I love using masking fluid and have tried lots of different tools. The takeaway for me is that it’s an individual choice. Thx as always Michele. 🥰💕🐶💕🥰

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Absolutely!

[@ecleARTia]

This is very helpful, thank you! I also enjoyed seeing how your beautiful ring and nails perfectly matched the colors of your test painting. 😊

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much!

[@felicitycrowe6971]

Such an informative video! Thank you!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sharonbaker8851]

Love all your videos and tutorials! Appreciate having this applicator information so I don't have to test them out for myself. I am a watercolor newbie and do not have many materials/tools yet, so the one time I have used masking fluid, I sharpened a sturdy twig in an electric pencil sharpener and dulled the tip with sandpaper. (I think I got that ideal from a Karen Rice video.) This actually worked pretty well for me, for my purposes anyway. (p.s. I think bruises don't hurt as much when you can picture what the "other guy" has. Would like to see a clip from your class and see your other skills! 🤣😉)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Lol maybe one day. I barely bruise now (trauma training). The beginners are in a state though ;-)

[@momostewart9771]

I've always used my silicone shading tool, but will try my embossing tool next. Thanks for your time spent analysing+testing for us. 🙏

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are most welcome :-)

[@ltlove63]

Thank you Michele 🙏 i have been curious about the use of this product. extremely helpful video 👍🏼👍🏼🌹🙏

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Gingercat662]

Thanks Michele for all the time you put in to thoroughly test all the methods! I bought an inexpensive embossing set to try out for another reason, now I'll test them out with masking fluid too.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hope it works for you :-)

[@lisawik7234]

I have watched so so many watercolor background tutorials. I really struggle but I think I found my girl!! I have the day off today, I will not get anything accomplished because I will be sitting in my art area watching your videos! And playing with my paints. The dust and dirt can wait. I will clean another day!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh, thanks! Have a lovely day!

[@scottkendall5655]

Glad the silicone brushes were included. I've been using them with happy success for a bit now. I bought a set of five of the #2 size from the local HobLob, and a couple have a nice fine point to make thin lines...so thin, I only remembered where I put them by feel across the surface of my paper as they were too dainty to see clearly. PLUS, they have a zero problem with clean up, leave them alone go back in a few minutes and just rub the frisket off with your fingers. Easy Peasy.

[@cindyhills5593]

I love you humor. Thanks for an informative and entertaining video.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh thank you!

[@susanreinersuedahl]

I like to use wooden pointy clay molding tools to apply my masking fluid. I just peel the dired masking fluid off of the clay tool and use it again. Great video Michele. Saves me and all of us from having to do this test. I was thinking of trying a dip pen but I will stick with my clay tool and embossing tool. Thanks.

[@michaelklein5242]

Thanks for demonstrating these varied techniques--it has saved me time poking around with them myself, Michele. I'll have to try that throwing the bottle of masking fluid at the picture from four feet away! Lately, I use a ruling pen to outline the area, then use a very manky brush to fill the area in. I've not used the dish cleaning liquid on a brush yet, so will give it a try.

[@valeriegehling4358]

Really glad I watched your comparisons! Very watch-worthy! ( ‘ cuse my English! ). Thanks. Will probably re-watch later.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@scoiataeli]

Just how useful this video is! 😍 omg, thank you very much for saving my nerves, time and money 🙏 I have an embossing tool at home, I will try it with masking fluid! ❤️

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hope it works well!

[@stormy439]

I like the 4' from the picture on the mantle and a good toss of masking fluid approach... but I will give an Embossing tool a try because I lack said mantle! Thankyou for yet another great video! 😃👍🇺🇸

[@sue9435]

I’m going to try the embossing pen now! Another great video, thankyou 😀

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Good luck :-)

[@susieunderwood4645]

A very helpful and interesting video, Michele - thank you! I've used a small stick from the garden (sharpened in a pencil sharpener), tooth pick and cheap synthetic brush for masking fluid application. I'll need to try an embossing pen.

[@patferguson572]

Thank you Michelle. I've tried most of the 'tools', including the 'pen' I made from my slender bamboo. However, never used embossing tool. I have in a box somewhere, given to me as a teenager. [66 y/o now]. NEVER USED IT! Wow, now have to find it! This would be a good time to declutter my house. YAY!! Not only find a brilliant masking fluid tool, BUT more importantly, the mental peace which comes from decluttering. Thank you Michelle. This video may have saved my sanity! LOL Thank you, Sweet Pea. from Qld. Oz

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are welcome! I am also decluttering, it's so important as life changes I think :-)

[@lisa0j]

That was super helpful! I’ve just bought some masking fluid and thanks to your advice I will use the embossing tools that I use for dot-painting. 😊

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@anitadavidson1266]

An extremely informative video Michelle, thank you. I am yet to use masking fluid but have both ruling pen and those same SAA brushes (I’m a member). Very grateful for showing some of the perils of those! I own lots of different embossing tools I used in polymer clay modelling, so now I know exactly what to use when I get to this stage. Hope you have a pleasant week. 🖌🎨👩‍🎨

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks, you too!

[@lindafowble3204]

Great comparison! I've tried all but the toothpick and embossing tool (which I will try next). I have one other tool that I love which is a bamboo pen for lines. I also like the color shaper tools for larger areas.

[@katemccarthy2463]

Also love your sense of humour.

[@margaretstewart4058]

Love your sense of humor Michele. I have a ruling pen that I like to use for masking fluid. I've tried the toothpick with no success. I've also tried an embossing tool but prefer the ruling pen. I'm afraid to use a brush because I don't have that many brushes that I can afford to ruin if it doesn't clean up properly. Thank you for this informative video.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem Margaret!

[@eagercrafter_9014]

Love this, never used it before, but I have tons of dotting tools.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hope it works, give it a try!

[@stephanieh930]

Excellent presentation and comparison of our options, thank you! Also gave me a good laugh (even though I am sorry for the glass dip pen experience). I have only used masking fluid a couple of times - used old paintbrush, the "Molotow" masking liquid marker, and haven't tried the silicone 'nail tools' that I bought yet. The Molotow marker is convenient for small spots, hopefully it doesn't dry up before I want to use it again ;)

[@marlenenakai2728]

Thank you and I agree with your final outcome 👍 Minimize the outcome as they say less is more😃

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Absolutely!

[@vonniebash9509]

Michele your tutorial is always so good and informative with chuckles throughout! Thank you for all the work you put into making these for us! I got so disgusted with masking fluid I threw it out. Today I will go get more and the embossing tool! All of my masking fluid attempts have turned out very much like yours with the toothpick! I am excited to give this another try! can’t thank you enough for all the work you have put in to help us wannabe artists! Thank you thank you thank you!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are very welcome Vonnie :-)

[@dawnwiesner8292]

I use very small Silicone Clay Sculpting Tools-. They are rubber Tip Silicone Brushes for Pottery Clay. They are easy to clean and I can get a very fine lines. I also use the drafting tool

[@marlenemorgan3258]

Thank you I learned a lot

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're welcome

[@debbiepledgeryannakakis6763]

Thanks for the research, made choices easier

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem 👍

[@lenaislena134]

Love your scientific approach to this! I'm the same especially with colour mixing, treat it like science experiments! I've discovered a new appliction tool that might interest you.. if you have an empty Golden High Flow bottle (or similar twist applicator mechanism) it means you can apply it continuously like a pen although not really suitable for finer detail, and it's easy to unclog any dried fluid on the opening. Good for splashing dots too, and there is a little room for variation of how open the tip is

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Interesting!

[@deborahgoodwin3426]

Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Up to this point in time, I have been using the drafting pen. But, I just recently purchased a set of embossing tools, all different sizes, and have yet to try them. After having watched all of the work you invested on our behalf, I can't wait to try out my embossing tools. Again, thank you!!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are so welcome!

[@caroles5258]

I love your analogy of throwing the masking fluid at the painting, lol

[@kayleyland5277]

Great informative video! 👍

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you think so!

[@pintsizestories196]

This is so helpful. Saves me struggling trying different applicators. I have saved an old ballpoint pen that's out of ink and hope to try it soon. Just not sure because the ball moves but it would be round like the embossing tool. I have used a fairly thin knitting needle and it works not too badly. Very easy to clean.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Worth a try!

[@nanschifris8734]

I’m so glad you did this experiment!! I like using my ruling pen and I like using a toothbrush to spatter for a snow or star effect. Other than those, I’ve never liked anything else for the same reasons you found. I have several embossing tools and will try them on my next masking fluid adventure. Thank you so much for sharing this great comparison!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem!

[@sherryfurr9115]

Excellent Michele. I bought a ruling pen after seeing what you use and so far it has worked OK. Because the embossing tool is so cheap I may try that. And I love your sense of humor.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks!

[@suziemizon685]

Just started painting my first ever watercolour prompted by and following Michele's Distant Trees tutorial .... so pleased with my results after a very nervous start! I used the ruling pen for the fence too like Michele did and I found it, and the masking fluid process much easier than expected - it didn't even vlog and worked just as well for me as it did for Michele in the tutorial 😊 Thank you so much for getting me started on my painting journey - giving me the confidence to have a bash🙏🌳

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

That's great Suzie!

[@lyndamitton4496]

I’m really appreciating your demonstrations, as I am not consistent with good results with masking fluid! Thanks!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem, I have a whole playlist of masking fluid videos which may help you :-)

[@captlynhall]

Just a thought. Using soap, instead of dishwashing liquid which is a detergent, may have made clean up a bit easier. Soap has fats in it that would perhaps coat the bristles, just as soap leaves a scum in the shower while body washes that are detergents, don't.

[@marilynbeeby6435]

Great video Michele, I'll definitely be investing in an embossing tool, although I do like my dipping pen for seeded grasses, it seems to work well with a quick flick to get the tapered end. Thanks again Michele and btw, it was worth waiting for 😊

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Aw thanks ☺️

[@janejones5514]

From an experiment I made years ago, I turned to my embroidery equipment and found embroidery, beading and darning needles to be good candidates for applying masking fluid. Always use the eye-end of the needle as the applicator end. To protect your hands, cover the sharp ends of the needles with transparent tape. Then tape the needles (needle eye-end down) to wooden cooking skewers (cut at different lengths of your choice) to make DIY art tools which are as easily handled as pencils. The needle eye serves as a reservoir for the masking fluid and the size of the needle eye determines the width of the line which can be applied. For applying masking liquid to very fine lines use needles with very narrow eyes such as beading needles. To apply masking fluid to wider lines and to small areas use a darning needle with a wide eye. To clean the needles just use liquid soap or rubbing alcohol.

[@janejones5514]

Thank you.

[@shirleydavis6864]

I have used an old-fashioned Speedball calligraphy dip pen and it does a nice job of giving thick to thin lines when sketching with masking fluid for things like grass and weeds in a painting. It is not too hard to clean with running water and your fingernail. I love your fun video. We are all guilty of taking ourselves much too seriously! Thanks from North Carolina USA.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Great tip! Thanks for watching!

[@bonnieg4076]

Great informative comparison. Thank you. I use cheap brushes from the bargain store, trim them to size, then toss them after a few uses. No soap except for washing later.

[@maryfeeney5240]

Love your hair!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks, I am growing it again though :-) I miss ponytails!

[@captlynhall]

Spot on video. I just purchased masking fluid and have yet to use it. So was researching what the best applicator would be to apply it. You just saved me money. I have a large variety of the embossing tools, and a bunch of cheap brushes. So I will just use what I have. Surely appreciate all the work you put into this study. Can't wait to view more of your videos.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@susanbuckley1964]

Very interesting experiment Michele. I normally use a masking fluid brush which I find works quite well, but it definitely does not clean easily and like you I find little bits get left behind in the bristles. I shall try an embossing tool for comparison. Thanks for sharing this........... and the new phone worked well !

[@phyllisalden9983]

Excellent Thank you

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

My pleasure!

[@lindarushford1613]

Great video, I use a plastic fruit kabob skewer. Easy to use and cleanup

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Great tip!

[@ogretmensameera9551]

suuuper helpful :) thanks

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No worries!

[@lynnswango8768]

I was surprised as I usually use the ruling tool. Will try the embossing tool as I have a variety of sizes. Good video!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching!

[@debbiegriffiths2562]

Thanks for such a comprehensive comparison test, Michelle. I’ve tried a dip pen and a toothpick. Both were pretty dreadful. I’m quite happy with laundry soap on a small, old brush and I’m scrupulous with washing it out as soon as I’m done. Not aware of any impact of the soap on paint but then I don’t have enough experience to spot the impact. Don’t have an embossing tool but thought (or fun) I would try out a knitting needle as I have plenty of broken ones. Will comment again if I have success!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh, let me know how it goes. I suspect the little ball on the end of the embossing tool makes a difference. You can buy them in the nail section of cheap shops.

[@DottieStanley]

I really appreciate the way you did this video. Very to the point about each tool and the examples of each one were very helpful. I got so excited when you started to apply the paints to all of them. I use a rather cheap set of acrylic brushes to apply the blue masking fluid like you used. I spray painted all of the handles a bright yellow, so that I know they are the masking fluid brushes. I keep them separate from all of my other watercolor brushes. I can't imagine how people work with the white masking fluid. Just thinking about that wears me out.

[@TheArghnono]

Thank you for this excellent and useful video. I hope you make more of these research studies in the future! Me and masking fluid have never been at good terms, alas, but you have already made me buy an embossing tool so I know what to do next time I really need to use masking fluid :)

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I thought ahead 😅

[@amandasmith5600]

Hi Michelle - great video! I really like the ruling pen for masking as you can get finer or heavier lines depending on the angle you hold it. But I have an embossing tool, so now I'm going to try that too. As far as cleanup for the ruling pen, I just let it dry for a minute and it rubs right off.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching :-)

[@natlisan]

Thanks Michele for another great tips video. I've always used the old paint brush and dish soap method myself for the most part! My trick is to leave the dish soap out to let it dry, It becomes almost like a gel. I apply a very thin coat then I dip into the masking fluid, I repeat this frequently to keep the masking from drying in my brush. I have never had any issues with having soap residue interfering with my paper surface. I've also used masking fluid markers and needle applicator's which also work pretty effectively.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh, great tip, thanks!

[@frankmazzant2868]

You actually maybe me laugh with some of your comments. I liked the get. I use an old brush with water diluted soap. I’ve tried the other methods except for the embossing tool. I’ll try it. Thanks. Hope your concussion gets better.

[@Miastrong930]

Love this video. I have considered using a brush. This safes me the trouble of trying. I have always used the line drawing tool. But didn't like the cleanup. Especially on the few occasions that the fluid got into the screw mechanism. I will try the embossing tool. It looks like the clean up will be easier.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Very easy clean up. Yes all my ruling pens are gungy!

[@reneerose9730]

I don’t know if anyone said this already but the dish soap is supposed to be completely dry on brush before dipping in masking fluid. Excellent tests. Thank you!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Great tip!

[@jackiemiller1408]

I have been using the silicone rubber tips with fair results, I do blot it on the side of my container after I dip it and that helps avoid excess, I bought a set with 3 sizes which helps. I tried the ruling pen when I first began using masking fluid, and found it very inconsistent in the amount I got onto the paper, either not enough or blobs. I haven't tried my embossing tool but I'm going to on my next project that needs masking. Thanks again for an excellent instructive video.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're welcome!

[@1TimothyFourTen]

Thanks!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Ah, thanks so much :-)

[@martinanelsonartandpsychol6478]

Thanks again for another great and informative video! I don’t use much masking fluid myself, but when I use it I always use the pens with masking fluid inside. But I had to laugh because I had the same thoughts as you, whenever I heard to put the brush into dish soap before applying the masking fluid.😀

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're welcome Martina!

[@anitakim]

This was so helpful - thank you! I had only ever heard to dip your brush in soap beforehand and to use a brush you wouldn't mind ruined. I did both things and the brush got ruined. I'm not sure if I didn't put enough soap on, or what. This video came up and I appreciated your going through all of the techniques that I hadn't heard of, and showing how they go.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Many people use the soap method, but I don't fully trust it!

[@babytuksbaby]

Visually I find the ruling pen‘s results most appealing ☺️

[@brianedwards7142]

You convinced me.

[@lucieburelle3343]

Thank you, Michele, for this video. You just resolve my problem! 😃I've tried the ruling pen before, but never got the hang of it. I've tried the shaper tool but wasn't found of the results as the application wasn't consistent. Next time, I'll try the embossing tool since I have so many of them.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh, I hope you like them!

[@teresamitchell-banks2286]

Really useful

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you!

[@kellyhalligan1328]

Thanks! i found a large set of nail embossing tools on amazon for $5.99!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Bargain!

[@markdonovan1540]

Great video, I like to embossing tool application. I usually use a draughting pen, but it's a bit hard to control sometimes. I thought of using dip pen nib, but was worried about damaging/clogging up the nib. I suppose the trick is to clean it immediately after use. I have a couple of old cheap brushes that I cut down to a stub which seems to work too.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for sharing Mark, yes old brushes, never throw one away!

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

Right now I’m waiting for my new masking fluid tool to arrive today. A 2 Piece Detailing Fine Painting Gold Fluid Writer Touch up Paint Applicator Pen. You fill it with masking fluid before you apply it to the paper. My favorites are the painting brushes with soap or the embossing tool. I have tried the toothpick, the dip pen, & I agree with you that they are horrible. I haven’t tried the glass dip pen, the silicone blender, the specialist brush. I am surprised by your findings as well. Thanks for sharing this fun & informational video of masking fluid tools. Have a great weekend!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks, you too Colleen, I think I saw a picture of the tools you ordered in the group, I have seen them used with ink, I wonder how they will do for masking fluid!

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber I saw that Rachel Parker uses that pen for doing her whiskers and fine lines of masking fluid in her painting. I will post my thoughts on in in your Facebook group page.

[@debpate9405]

If one does not have these tools for fine lines a bent open paper clip or a nail will work in a pinch. Great info here. Debra L Pate Art