How to use Masking Fluid (10 Fantastic Tips, Tricks and Tools)

[@goofeymaloofey]

Where have you been hiding!? I just found you and have learned so much already! I was warned off frisket by so many, including the blue, as they said it leaves a tiny to the paper. But they were not using the gentle hand you do. Thank you! I am heading to a. Art retreat and going to give frisket another try. Looking forward to your next videos. Trust me, I will be binge watching and sharing!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much indeed. Just remember, when you use the masking fluid, don't apply it too thickly. That's very often when it can be tricky to remove and possibly tear the paper. Have fun at the retreat. Paul 🎨

[@lizbecker1677]

I've always used rubber cement to mask off areas in my paintings. When I tried masking fluid, I was really turned off because it ripped my paper, some of my paint seeped through and a few other unexpected things happened. Now I realize I was using it incorrectly, and it requires a little more finesse! Thanks for making this video. I'm going to give masking fluid another try using your suggestions.

[@TheDevonArtist]

I'm glad my video has given you some ideas Liz, remember not to apply it too thickly. 😉

[@samstewart9249]

Some papers just aren't designed for masking fluid, Arches, Fabriano, and Waterford handle it well, the Nujabi hand made 200 lb doesn't handle it at all. Not all techniques work in all cases and yes thick coatings of the liquid frisket will soak in to the papers fibers. This is what causes the tears. I use W&N Maaking fluid. Tried others but, imo, this is the best masking fluid.

[@janmay6455]

Do you know what I love about you Paul? You give your all in your tutorials, no holding back with ideas, tips and motivation. Thankyou so much

[@TheDevonArtist]

Jan, you say the nicest of things, thank you so much, Paul 🎨

[@webgomer]

@6:27 "It's tacky...feel that?" Nope. Tried several times and every time I try and feel it, It just keeps pausing the video. I can hear it though! Hey, seriously, I really enjoyed this video. I came here just to learn the basics about masking fluid, and got a whole course! I am a 62 year old beginner! Decided I'll likely prefer watercolor to acrylics or oils. This will be a lifelong endevor for me from this point on. I am so happy I found you! I'll be coming back for more of your well thought out videos... *I learned a lot from you today, and you have a very enjoyable personality - one that's meant for teaching. Today, I also subscribed with notifications.* Thank you!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Bradford Guy, thank you very much for subscribing. I can imagine you now sat there with an iPad or similar tapping on the screen, LOL. Enjoy the videos, as you may have noticed I've recorded many for my channel here. Paul 🎨

[@theDaughterOfDawn]

This guy is freaking talented. What the heck! 🎉

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you Aeaissa, thank you.

[@lisavento7474]

That RUBBER CEMENT ERASER we used 50 years ago to remove dried rubber cement, using 2 sides dried and slip sheet to make advertising mockups, great gluing system for larger sheets...

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much Lisa. 😀

[@candybourgeois6916]

So many wonderful tips that I've not heard about before. Thank you for sharing your experience, tools and techniques. I now know many of the things I was doing wrong ... shaking the bottle to create air bubbles, not rolling it toward the larger area, and making sure to save those saved ruined brushes for texture!

[@TheDevonArtist]

You are so welcome Candy, at least my video has given you some ideas. 😊

[@April4YHWH]

Masterful! I have the strongest urge to crawl into your brain and glean some of your beautiful talent 😍I found you through a search for ways to use a ruling pen. This video did not disappoint.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you so much, you can borrow my brain anytime, mind you, it's a bit on the small side. 🤣

[@April4YHWH]

@@TheDevonArtist Perfect - it'll be a quick stay, then 😁

[@TheDevonArtist]

@@April4YHWH 🤣

[@sharroncosby482]

You’re a fabulous instructor. As a beginner watercolorist, I am anxious to apply your tips and tricks.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you Sharon, that's very kind of you. ☺️

[@thecentralscrutinizerr]

Just wanted to add: You can use masking fluid to preserve any color, or any portion of the painting not just the white of the paper. Of course, the color has to be dry before applying the masking fluid.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you, yes I forgot that one, but it can remove some of the colour as well, especially if you lay masking fluid over a darker wash. Paul 🎨

[@RainCheck797]

I love this technique. I use it for bricks

[@leighsirvent654]

One of the best videos about masking fluid-thanks!

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's a lovely comment, thank you Leigh!😊

[@viralpatel6090]

I am in love with that branch.

[@TheDevonArtist]

It has to be my favourite so far as well. 😀

[@realness2b]

You are such a good teacher! Even I. Could follow!!

[@TheDevonArtist]

LOL, thank you very much, I'm glad I have helped you learn this lovely medium. 😊

[@charlotterusse9855]

Well knock me over with a feather!!! I am new to the watercolour hobby...I bought a travel set so as not to weigh down my suitcase. I have garnered so much insight in this one video, so many tips and tricks to add to my quiver, I am Really Inspired! Incendiary, truly.... Your voice and accent are so calm and soothing to listen to, and your pieces are lovely. So much attention to little details. Thank you for sharing your passion with us. Keep doing what you love ~ your joy shines through!!! 🌟 🎆🎈 🎨

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Charlotte, thank you so much for your very kind words. I'm glad my video has given you some insight into how to use masking fluid. Have fun with your watercolour and time to get creative. Paul 🎨

[@stephaniebrittain5854]

My gosh, arent you a fab find!! I can tell im going to learn alot from you, love the way you speak and explain ❤ thanks in advance!

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's a lovely thing to say, thank you Stephanie, enjoy my videos here. Paul 🎨

[@lindacurrie6220]

Bloody brilliant from Australia, thanks Paul!

[@TheDevonArtist]

LOL, thank you Linda. 😀

[@marjoriejohnson6535]

I fell down the rabbit hole of masking fluid today. ( i havent used it in almost 50 years ) i was so sure i could do the floral backgrounds i wanted without using masking fluid and found it not only fiddly but darn near impossible. So today i watched every you tube artist i could find and finally ..after hours ..i found yours. I would have saved so much time if yours had come up first. I bought all of the tools , like the removes, the tools that you used , and several masking fluids 5 years ago..then i got sick, very sick. Now it is time to get back to the studio and and just as soon aas the fluid i ordered is delivered to my door. I ordered Qor and i cant wait for it to arrive. If i were well enough to drive i would have driven to golden factory tomorrow. ( where Qor is made..its about 1 hour fromm me) cant wait to try everything i have just learned. Thank you. Now off to watch more of your videos before my eyes tell me its bedtimel

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Marjorie, thank you so much for your kind words regarding my videos here. I do hope your masking fluid arrives soon for you. I have heard of Qor, and will certainly look it up again. Paul 🎨

[@scottkendall5655]

Great Video! A ton of great tips. When you removed the masking of the tall grasses, around 20 minutes, and then go over them with some color, it reminded me of a painting I did of a car in a junk yard with overgrown grasses all around it. Rather than use masking, I scratched in all the grass (thankfully timed that right) so I had all these bare paper tall grasses. Once dry, I colored them, like you. But rather than trying to go over them with a brush and color, I used some craft (cheap) water soluble pens; and they worked like a charm. They were transparent (yellow) and the soft felt tip (almost like a brush) let me apply it very tightly to the white tall grasses.... it looked great. I don't think I could have gotten that thin and sharp of a grass effect, even using masking and a script liner. My only regret now is I didn't go after other grasses in the painting with some oranges or reds, etc. to really play with that effect.... but fortunately, I got more paper on the shelf. Thanks and Cheers from Texas.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Scott thank you very much for your excellent suggestion about the 'scratching in' technique. Yes, this is certainly a good way to create grass blades, even by indenting the paper before the paint goes on works a treat as well. Paul 🎨

[@Artistichobbycorner]

You Sir are an amazingly skilled gentleman. I learned more in 15min watching your video than I the last six months. I am working on acrylics currently because I became frustrated with watercolors. You have rekindled my interest to try watercolors again in the future. Thank you!!!!!

[@TheDevonArtist]

As you know, watercolours can be tricky to get used too, and they are not always that forgiving. But once you have got to know how the water flows and the colour lay on the paper, it will start to come together for you. Paul 🎨

[@TheDevonArtist]

What's your 'go-to' masking fluid tool, is it one that I use or something completely different? Leave me a comment, I would love to know. If you want another video on masking fluid I would suggest you try out this one next: kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHqmZ5Kthc2Uj7M

[@CC-xx4jh]

I was getting very frustrated while using masking fluid for the first time. I really appreciate this video, and I'm having a much easier and fun time using it. Thank you for your video!

[@TheDevonArtist]

You're very welcome 😊

[@nanasue4481]

Hello Paul, I just wanted to say ‘Thank you’. I’m only just starting with watercolour and I have every intention of watching ALL of your videos. Curiosity led me to watch this one and I have learned so much already!! Amazing, I had no idea that there’s so many ways to apply the masking fluid for different effects. You have a very easy tone to your voice, a ‘proper’ teachers voice. So again, thank you very much! Your paintings are unbelievably real too. Absolutely beautiful, truly. I really wish I had started this watercolour journey many years ago!!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Nana Sue, this is such a lovely comment and I just want to say a big thank you to you for taking the time to write here, plus watch my videos as well. You know, it's never too late to learn, so I'm glad you are doing this now, you will find time will simply fly by whilst playing with the painting, colours and brushes. You can get so involved within your work, and sometimes you start wondering why it's getting dark outside already! LOL Keep painting, Paul 🎨

[@nanasue4481]

@@TheDevonArtist Thank you Paul! Your encouragement means a lot. 🙏

[@candyh2o]

This is definitely one of the best videos on how to use masking tape. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful Candace, thank you for watching, Paul :-)

[@craintree7621]

Just discovered you, Paul, and thrilled at learning a few new tips. May I share one related to the old toothbrush? If you find it unwieldy because the angle is not quite right, hold the handle of the old toothbrush over a flame briefly to soften the plastic then bend it gently into a more comfortable angle that suits you better. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and your exquisite art.

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's a very good idea, and yes, I will certainly do this with my old painting toothbrushes and bend them to a much more comfortable angle. Thank you, Paul 🎨

[@KiraSingsSongs]

That is fantastic!! Thank you so much for this help. I have never tried using Masking Fluid but now I am not as nervous :D

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful, remember to not apply it too thickly. 😉

[@MaxfieldMini]

Creative Mark makes fantastic Masking Fluid Brushes. I bought an assortment of them from Blick's USA. A Glass Dip Pen is also an excellent tool for Masking and cleans up easily, just don't drop it 😉 🇺🇸❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿❤️🇬🇧

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks for the tip Gail. I've never tried a glass dip pen, I will have to look that one up. 😀

[@3dscribbles]

I'm just starting to learn using watercolors and this was a god send. Great tips and practical samples. My mind is working overtime with ideas on where I can use these. Thank you for this!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful! I do have another video on masking fluid scheduled for release this afternoon. 😉

[@JazzedatHome]

This is great, thanks! I just got a free pack of toothpicks and was wondering what to do with them. I really appreciate your sharing the different effects that can be achieved with various tools. One thing that I've done, before, is apply a light color before using the masking fluid. Let's say you want to get a really sharp look with some green grass and a darker background. You can apply the lighter green of the grass, use the masking fluid on top, to get the details and edges you want, let it dry, then do a darker background.

[@TheDevonArtist]

I do the same thing as well. I've just finished a tutorial of an otter laid in the grass, and used the same technique for that to create numerous layers of individual blades, as you know it creates a lovely effect. 🦦

[@alleynanci]

It is so awesome for you to share your secrets! I’ve often wondered how professional artist create fantastic art work, now I get to know from artist like you that are so generous to share! Thanks a million!

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's lovely of you to say, thank you. Paul 🎨

[@corthesus5513]

As someone who loves to sketch Animals and has been trying to shift to watercolour I am glad I found you. And your voice has a strange serenity and wisdom to it. Love it. Good Luck.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Corthesus, thank you very much, that's very kind of you. Paul 🎨

[@urssysplace2622]

Hello Paul, thank you for your tips. This is by far the most valuable video I have seen for techniques using masking fluid. Cheers! Urssy from Canada.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Urssy, thank you very much for your kind words. Masking fluid can be tricky to use, but this video should help you apply it the way I do. Paul 🎨

[@urssysplace2622]

@@TheDevonArtist Your paintings are amazing and I’m so grateful I found your channel. Thank you for sharing your skills and knowledge of the “watercolour world” I so look forward to your videos.

[@TheDevonArtist]

@@urssysplace2622 You're very welcome Urssy. Paul :-)

[@michaelklein5242]

Wow! You are a veritable font (fount?) of excellent suggestions and tricks, Paul! Right off the bat, you may have solved a recent dilemma I'm having with my masking fluid (bottle form, W-N). It worked great for weeks but then it started getting very "manky" (as you Brits say) and either not completely covering the full moon I was doing or it ripped off the top tissue of the watercolor paper. I've never stirred it, but paused this video for a while and slowly mixed the bottle and applied a circle of it. I just rubbed it off now and it's back in shape! Thank you so much and am now off try try some of your ideas. Cheers! 🎨

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Michael, I'm glad my video had helped with the masking fluid issue you have, or should I now say had. 😀 Remember to not shake the bottle to mixes it, swirl it around, or use the end of a brush to gently stir it first. Paul 😉

[@jeanfrye6192]

Best tutorial EVER....

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you Jean, thank you. 😊🤗

[@rolfhogfeldt7645]

Came across your video accidentally while looking for a crackle medium and I'm glad I did! I wasn't going to watch it only because I have used the masks in the past, but with a "twist". I use to use odnairy rubber cement for the same masking reasons, but on photographs. Particularly colour photos. Then I would either dip the whole photo into bleach. The rubber cement would protect the parts of the photo I wanted to keep, while the bleach would react to the unprotected portions and change the colors and create surreal effects. You've given me some new ideas and I'm glad I stumbled upon your video!!! Thanks for sharing!!!!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you Rolf, I'm glad my video has given you some ideas. What an interesting concept though. 😀

[@tamrafalco3999]

Thanks for all this information! I hope your Chanel grows! More people should know about you!

[@TheDevonArtist]

So nice of you to say Tamra, thank you very much. Paul :-)

[@trinidiana]

@@TheDevonArtist I just found your channel a couple hours ago while looking up tips for watercolor birds. All i can say is wow, you are an amazing artist and your tutorials are blowmind. Thanks for all you share, I cant even imagine how much work this must be to create this channel. Quick question, I have a drawing I did of a mott Mott bird (which you will love , look it up its the kingfisher family, found in Trinidad and Tobago where I’m from), I want to do a background just like what you are doing with the fox before I paint the bird. I have never really used masking fluid so this is great, Question is , should i put the masking fluid directly on the exact edge of what I’ve drawn on the inside or the outside ? I’m a little scared to mess up my drawing. ... thanks again

[@TheDevonArtist]

​@@trinidiana Hi Trinidiana, I've just looked up the Mott Mott bird and WOW what a beauty it is! I can see why you have chosen this species to paint. Regarding the masking fluid, you will need to put this inside the outline of the bird and yes right up to the edges, probably a half inch wide should be enough. Test your masking fluid out on some scrap watercolour paper first of the same type, to see if it stains or tears the paper. I do have a 2016 older video on her why I painted the background for one of our little birds over here in the UK called a Blue Tit, sort of related to the Chickadee family. Watch this, and it will give you some ideas, you can do it! Plan, plan, plan beforehand though. Paul 🎨 bit.ly/2ca4Uon

[@trinidiana]

@@TheDevonArtist thank you so much. Happy you liked the bird, maybe one day you will paint it !

[@shaustin22]

You are THE BEST watercolor instructor on KZbin and I’ve seen a ton! 😊🇨🇦

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks so much 😊 Paul

[@annwynter2823]

Thanks for all this info. I use a cut feather tip and I also a cut hollow reeds to apply masking fluid

[@TheDevonArtist]

Great tip Ann! I do like the idea of a feather and a reed. 😃

[@crystalheart9]

My 'go-to masking fluid tool is a color shaper. You showed one in your video. I have one with a small pointed tip. When I'm finished I let the masking fluid dry on it and then just peal it off. Really easy to clean. I like the cocktail stick idea for drawing out the fine hairs. Thanks so much for your wonderfully helpful videos.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you, yes the blending tool (colour shaper) is a good one to use, no clogged brushes! Paul 🎨

[@DaniFernandesVideos]

That flower you painted is just so perfect!! Thank you for this video!

[@TheDevonArtist]

You are very welcome, glad that you enjoyed it. 🌸

[@fds402]

oooh!!! awsome artist and teacher. I am your new subscriptor.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks for subbing and of course for watching my videos here on KZbin. Paul 🎨

[@kyleenaugle632]

This was so helpful!!! Thank you!! :)

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much 😊

[@debbrantstevens8826]

False eyelash glue bottles (when they are empty!) I refill the 3cm long 0.5cm diameter bottles with masking fluid. They have a plastic stick inside the mini bottle as a glue applicator, except now of course I can use the stick to put masking fluid on my watercolour paper. They are rounded and about the size of the centre of a cocktail stick. Of course never use them again for eyelash glue! I have to shop around for the right size and type of lash glue bottle - most shop assistants expect questions about the lashes, never the glue bottle! The best has a screw top and because of their very small size, conveniently fit into a mini sketching palette, and a shaved sided pencil, at the end of the mini travel brush. Perfect for plein air painting. ;)

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much for your clever idea and explanation. Very interesting, mind you, it's not something I personally use but will certainly ask friends. 😁

[@MommyMagic106]

You are so awesome, Paul. Thank you for your help.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much for such a lovely comment. :-)

[@lazaruswolf9164]

Great job! Thank you so much for sharing❤

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks for watching. 😊

[@Jhpc399]

I am pleased to meet you. You are a good artist and I hope to learn some of your wisdom.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you, that's very kind of you. 😊

[@truetogod5416]

This is brilliantly helpful!! Thank you so much, I'm about to paint some very delicate white lace on a black background and wasn't looking forward to it. Now feeling cool as a cucumber! :)

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much, have fun painting the lacework. 😀

[@FERRAYYY_1973]

Thank you so much for sharing this great video about the masking fluid!

[@TheDevonArtist]

You are so welcome Shiny 😊

[@FERRAYYY_1973]

@@TheDevonArtist 🤗🤩💎

[@suzum.9713]

Just bought my first bottle of masking fluid today. Looking forward to learning!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Have fun with it Suzu, remember to not apply it too thickly. 😉

[@mariavictoriagarcia9164]

Your yellow holding brushes??? It's geat! Thanks a Lot for your tome and your interesting information!!!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you too!

[@JC-xx6rr]

Very useful thanks. The ‘Mask Away’ tool is very like crepe rubber, from which crepe shoe soles are made. Also great for cleaning and restoring the nap on suede!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much for the information Jacqueline, I didn't know that, I do like the suede cleaning idea as well. Paul 🎨

[@WayneWerner]

Apparently now they're available at the Dollar Tree in the US. Super cheap! I think it was called some kind of eraser... It worked well for cleaning a sticky residue in our car 😂

[@scarz1951]

Hah! The one homemade applicator looks like a wee boot. Gave me a chuckle. Oh yes it did. Those blending tools come in at least two sizes. I bought a six tool set of the larger ones and do use them now and then. One of my fav applicators are dip pens when I need fine lines but I also use the calligraphy nibs for broader lines. I really, REALLY get a hoot out of your vids as well as gaining a boat load of knowledge. Thankee kindly.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much, I've never tried the dip pens and I may have some knocking about here to try that out. I can imagine just by looking in a draw of bits and bobs there will be many items that can create some interesting marks. Paul :-)

[@jimreilly6933]

Have you ever tried splitting a seagull feather and using it as a quill ?

[@scarz1951]

@@jimreilly6933 Never seagull quill. Chicken, Turkey and duck yes. If you shape the end of the quill properly before splitting they all work well...otherwise....Its a waste of time, effort and good feathers.

[@encouragement25]

So so glad I found your tutorials. Best tips, lessons I've come across for masking. Thank you

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you to say Carin, thank you, Paul 🎨

[@SDPleinAir]

Wonderful content and presentation! Your examples are easy to follow and imminently useful. I especially like how you went back and painted the masked areas after the fluid was pealed off. Thank you for posting this video.

[@TheDevonArtist]

You are very welcome Charles, I'm glad my little video here was of help to you. 😊

[@znancymendoza]

Do you ever use q-tips for applying masking fluid. What a great tutorial regrading masking. Thanks

[@TheDevonArtist]

Not at all

[@elihaugen2971]

This video was super helpful for me. I am new to painting and have never used masking fluid before. But after watching this I felt I learned a lot. These are definitely techniques I will try to use in the future, because they actually look really fun to do.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Masking fluid can be lovely fun to use when used correctly, enjoy creating. 😀

[@ginettemelody1035]

Very useful lecture and demo. Thank you. Blessings

[@TheDevonArtist]

You are very welcome Ginette, thank you for watching, Paul 🎨

[@greglarUK]

Really useful video, thank you very much for sharing 😊

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful, thanks for having a look. 😊

[@t.roseadam6828]

I use various sized dotting tools to apply my masking fluid. No brushes destroyed and any remaining bits peel off the metal tips easily. I especially love the toothpick trick though! What a great method for whiskers! I love all the tools and effects you got from them.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Great tip about your dotting tools, thank you for adding that one. Yes, cocktails stick are very, very handy for whiskers and fine hairs. 😀

[@paintingalways]

your drawing skills are amazing 🤩

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much 😀

[@cherrytrees7614]

thank you for this explanation! greetings from barcelona!

[@TheDevonArtist]

You are welcome and 'Hola' back from the United Kingdom. 👋

[@kazfarndon4990]

Something I discovered recently is one of those curly metal pot scourers makes great random marks

[@TheDevonArtist]

That Kaz is a cracking idea! Thank you for sharing, Paul 🎨

[@theresaavery4670]

Lots of great tips here. Thanks so much! Just found your channel and subscribed. Just watched your video on water, so well done!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Awesome! Thank you Theresa for watching and especially for subscribing to my channel! Paul 🎨

[@patriciacoogan5076]

Thanks!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Patricia, thank you very much for the tip, that's very kind of you. Paul 🎨

[@reneerose9730]

Wonderful video. I love the idea of mashing up a brush like that. A stylus tool also works amazing. The ones with the one or better yet, two ends for size variants. They have the metal balls on each end and tend to have a nice control over the flow of the masking fluid as it deposits on the paper. Easy to clean. Glides nicely etc.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Great tip! I do have some embossing/indenting tools exactly like that so will give them a try. 😁

[@Zumpi61]

Thank you very much. As a beginner i like to try masking fluid. Your video is the best i seen. So many tips. I learned a lot today. Have a nice sunday.

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you, thank you Petra. 😊😊

[@louiseryder5035]

Wonderful painter how fabulous 👌

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much. 😃

[@09nob]

Really useful knowledge, cheers.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful. 😊

[@annewatman677]

You answered my very first question about mixing masking fluid. I know you aren’t supposed to shake it, although I see some artists do that. Thank you, Paul!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you Anne, yes I try to avoid painting loads of bubbles, mind you, it can be quite effective. LOL 😂

[@annewatman677]

@@TheDevonArtist One thing I noticed was the one has never been opened, and I think it’s about a year old. I have Pebeo, which is the same blue color. Part of it is very liquid, but part of it is quite thick. I used the same wooden stick you use for pulling some of the fluid out for hair detail, but I used mine to try to mix everything. Then I ended up with little chunks and liquid! When I put some in a cup and mixed more with the paint brush I wanted to use, it finally started blending together, and it worked great. But, I also have some white fluid by Winsor & Newton that is very thick, and seems to do better if I add about half water. I don’t like it because it’s so hard to see, but it works well. When you said that masking fluid has a shelf life, it made me think that I don’t want to bother with it if I don’t have to because I rarely use it. Still, I wanted to try it, and maybe there’ll come a time when I do want to use it. I keep it in a dark cupboard with the lid on tight. Is there anything else I can do?

[@TheDevonArtist]

@@annewatman677 Hi Anne, yes I also have some of the Pebeo masking fluid, and I now the one I use all the time. Mainly because it is latex free, so hardly any smell to it, so much better. Shelf life can depend on very often after the first day your fluid has been opened. Once opened obviously the air gets to it, I've found that mine starts to degrade it from that moment on, very slowly of course. :-) I often tip some out into a little plastic dish, then immediately pop the lid back on the fluid pot to help it keep longer. I like the tip of lightly mixing some with a brush first, thank you very much. Paul 🎨

[@michelekirkpatrick9230]

You are my new HERO!!!

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you Michele, thank you so much. 😊

[@cynthialoza6295]

Thank you so much for sharing so generously, Paul! You do amazing work in watercolor😊

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you to say Cynthia, thank you 😊

[@scchawla2507]

Paul Sir, i know you posted this video three years ago... But i just came across your channel and i love it... Because i am into hyper realism and its for the first time that i see someone using water colors so realistically... Love your inputs.. I wanna try masking fluid on landscapes and wildlife yes, but also where architectural details play the scene... The stab brush technique was interesting... Count me in as your new subscriber... Its my request if you could try something with pouring water color technique

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much for your kind words, also for subscribing to my channel. I will certainly consider the pouring watercolour technique.

[@debbieabruzzini7004]

Learned so much! Thank you!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful! 😀

[@Linda-kh6rl]

Your or a GREAT ARTIST AN I ENJOY WATCHING YOU ❤

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much Linda 🤗

[@alexwaterville8074]

Thanks Paul, that was really informative, I had never seen many of those methods in action. I am hoping to be a patron when means allow, but until then I'm really appreciating these free short videos. Thank you for your generosity xx

[@TheDevonArtist]

Alex, just knowing that you are benefiting from my little videos on KZbin is good enough for me. You can join Patreon or my www.devonartist.co.uk website whenever you want, my full video classes videos will always be there. Mind you I do keep adding another three to the pile every month to keep everyone busy! Paul ;-)

[@alexwaterville8074]

@@TheDevonArtist thank you Paul, that's very kind. I am already registered on the free membership page of your site and love reading your newsletter 🤓😊

[@TheDevonArtist]

@@alexwaterville8074 Thank you Alex, I'd love to see how you get on with your paintings from my free tutorials. You can email these to me from the bottom of each tutorial page. devonartist.co.uk/

[@kalmakoff99]

Super helpful. I'm learning from scratch

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much. Masking fluid is a good item to have within your painting kit, and can save a lot of work trying to reserve the white of the paper. Have fun, Paul 🎨

[@eliagron8750]

Excellent methods. Thank you so much for sharing . Liked and subscribed.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much Eli. :-)

[@AndyMan365]

just got into masking fluid on watercolour.. your video was perfect to explain it 👍 x

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you Andy, I'm glad my little video helped you understand the basics on using this handy medium. Paul 🎨

[@williamejiae]

Sr Paul, buenos días! mil gracias por enseñarnos sus técnicas y recursos con el liquido enmascarador! reciba muchas bendiciones desde Cali_Colombia SA

[@TheDevonArtist]

Muchas gracias por ver William, eres muy amable. Paul 🎨

[@AFAskygoddess]

Thank you 😊 I appreciate your tips. You are a gifted artist and teacher

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you, thank you 😊

[@darleenlindstrom5381]

Thank you so much. Wonderful detail for those of us new to masking.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks for watching Darleen :-)

[@toneseeland]

You are such a pleasant and clever tutor !

[@TheDevonArtist]

That's very kind of you, thank you :-)

[@dorothyminor7581]

Found your channel while looking for help with masking fluid! Just what I needed! New subscriber!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you for subscribing Dorothy, enjoy my videos and most of all enjoy those paints. Paul 🎨

[@CreativeMistakes]

Thanks for the advice and hints. Very helpful.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful Alex. 😀

[@SharonH11100]

I just discovered you ~ think I’m in love💁🏼‍♀️

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you Sharon, that's very kind of you. Paul :-)

[@SharonH11100]

BTW, that square, gummy thing was, I think, originally for removing “Carter’s Rubber Cement”which was the graphic artists’ go-to temporary or permanent adhesive, depending on drying-time, here in the U.S. when I was growing up (don’t ask). They do come in handy for removing masking fluid ~ for short they were known as a “pickup.” Just my two cents ~~~💁🏼‍♀️. Oh, they also pick up cat-hair nicely, whether you want them to or not…. the extent of my wildlife experience…🙋🏼‍♀️💖

[@TheDevonArtist]

@@SharonH11100 Thank you for that Sharon, I had no idea and very interesting to know as well. It is such an unusual item, isn't it! :-)

[@chrisgregore359]

Thank you for all of this information, it is great! 😊

[@TheDevonArtist]

I'm glad it helps you Chris, thank you for watching. 😀

[@zaldum386]

Great as always!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much 🎨

[@lisavarner7575]

You are so talented! Thank you so much for such incredible tips and for explaining it in detail. Thank you thank you.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful Lisa, that's very kind of you. 😊

[@Plookiss]

Excellent explaining and demos, I'm a complete beginner and really enjoyed your video. Thank you

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful, at least you now have some ideas on how to use this handy addition to your watercolour kit. 😀

[@angelanowak9467]

OMG you are amazing! So talented and I never knew you cld use masking fluid in so many ways Thank you so much for sharing your gift

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you so much Angela, that's very kind of you. Paul 🎨

[@theselyn]

Briliant!!!!😍🤌🏽

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much 😀

[@pegmitten4011]

Great tips. Thanks!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad it was helpful Pegmitten4011 😊

[@gaildolphin]

Thank you so much. Of course videos like this did not exist when I started painting! I never knew the tip about putting soap on the brush first...wow, that really helps. I love your homemade texture tools, how great! So excited to try these tips. I just painted a Turtle under the sea and didn't use the fluid like I could have. Next time! Best wishes and thanks again. Gail and Derby the Deerhound.

[@TheDevonArtist]

I'm glad my little video has given you some ideas with using masking fluid. It's amazing stuff, but can also be very messy sometimes. Paul 🎨

[@hsteil]

Great ideas - thank you

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks for watching 😀

[@caladorichard]

Great class

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much 😊

[@Marifren-zt9wt]

Great Video!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for having a look. 😊

[@andreabalestrieri8832]

I was about to try masking fluid for the first time and was lucky enough to come across this video. I really liked your tips and will try to put them into practice. I appreciate the fact that there are some inexpensive alternatives we beginners can try. You're really talented and your videos are so useful and clear, you deserve more subscribers. Greetings from Argentina. ❤

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you very much for your kind words Andrea, that's very kind of you. Paul 🎨

[@lyndachaufty4716]

Just starting watercolors. This is so good to view . My mask is white. I've never used it yet. My teacher uses contact paper. But im not fond of that effect.

[@TheDevonArtist]

Hi Lynda, thank you very much. To be honest with you, I have never used contact paper, but I have heard good reports in the past from people. But yes, masking fluid is the one for me, just remember to use it too thickly though as it can be harder to remove. Paul 🎨

[@mariavictoriagarcia9164]

Thanks a lot for your creative idea! I did something similar cutting a tube of float in several sections ! Now l have just to stand it up and l'll copy your idea!!! Thanks a Lot for your answer!!! Grettings from México!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Another good idea Maria using a tube of float. I hope it goes well for you. 😀

[@judyh3017]

Excellent video! I learned a lot. Thank you!

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thank you Judy. :-)

[@TimBissettMedia]

Hi Paul, I thought you'd be interested to know that in the United States and in Canada (both places I've lived) the Mask-Away eraser is called a "Rubber Cement Lifter". I think that's because it might've been created for that purpose before someone figured out it would be great for lifting masking fluid. Hey I also want to chime in with the chorus and say thank you for your excellent content!✨👏👏✨

[@TheDevonArtist]

Thanks for the info Tim, yes, I have the same thing here in my painting box and one of those items I forget to use. You must know what it's like, you end up with so much 'stuff' you forget exactly everything you have! LOL Paul 🎨