Tips for Watercoloring with Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers

Gold brush lettering over a watercolor background.
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2 - • Colorful Striped Birth...
In today's video and post I have some tips for using Zig Clean Color Real Brush markers. I don't know why I don't use these markers more often! I love how nearly fluorescent the colors are are! For real, the pictures don't even do the colors justice! I stamped and white heat embossed images from Tim Holtz's Flower Garden stamp set. Heat embossing images before watercoloring is one of my favorite techniques. The embossed edges of the stamp resist any watercolor so it makes it super easy to paint quickly.
The Zig marker colors I used for the coloring are: Light Carmine, Pink, Purple, Yellow, Red Wine, Mid Green, and Warm Gray. All are included in the 48 pack, which is the only pack I own (links to stores below).
• ----- • L I N K S • ----- •
C A R D . B L O G : kwdesign.at/kwe...
L I F E S T Y L E . B L O G : kwdesign.at/kwn...
T W I T T E R : / starofmay
F A C E B O O K: / kwernerdesign
I N S T A G R A M : / starofmay
P I N T E R E S T : / kristinawerner
• ----- • S U P P L I E S • ----- •
All supplies are listed in the order they are first shown/used in the video, but grouped by type. Compensated affiliate links used where possible.
• Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers, 48 set -- goo.gl/6ixtN3
• Zig Clean Color Real Brush Markers, 48 set -- goo.gl/mGaQfX
• Tim Holtz Flower Garden Cling stamp set -- goo.gl/W0wl5Y
• Arches Cold Press Watercolor Pad 9x12 -- goo.gl/kFjumK
• Arches Cold Press Watercolor Pad 9x12 -- goo.gl/3tv3yp
• Tsukineko VersaMark Ink -- goo.gl/ZsViRy
• Hero Arts White Embossing Powder -- goo.gl/kaL7tl
• Sistema Storage Container (for embossing powder) -- goo.gl/HdDVon
• Mini Spoons for embossing powder containers -- goo.gl/rLQ22a
• Mini Spoons for embossing powder containers -- goo.gl/5PfPDJ
• Milwaukee Heat Gun -- goo.gl/AdZsvJ
• Simon Says Stamp Masking Paper 8.5x11 (20 sheets) -- goo.gl/aV6m2Z
• EK Success Honey Bee Non-Stick Scissors -- goo.gl/2h6S9E
• Hardboard Panel 9x12 -- goo.gl/Yx6jXh
• Hardboard Panel 9x12 -- goo.gl/Vvh1tQ
• 3M Scotch Blue Masking Tape -- goo.gl/O8kBH5
• 3M Scotch Blue Masking Tape -- goo.gl/tMjYTt
• Pentel Aquash Water Brushes (Assorted Sizes), Pack of 3 -- goo.gl/O2kSVN
• Pentel Aquash Water Brushes (Assorted Sizes), Pack of 3 -- goo.gl/IuXyPG
• MISTI stamping tool -- goo.gl/kchMQG
• VersaFine Onyx Black Ink -- goo.gl/HtSiQx
• Tonic Studios 12-inch Guillotine Paper Trimmer -- goo.gl/CUv43s
• Bazzill Card Shoppe Licorice Twist Cardstock -- goo.gl/cFia42
• Martha Stewart Mini Scoring Board -- goo.gl/9mcMX6
• Simon Says Stamp Teflon Bone Folder -- goo.gl/9li0xt
• Neenah Solar White 80 lb. Card Stock -- goo.gl/52qu0c
• Tombow Xtreme Permanent Adhesive -- goo.gl/FqLz91
• Tombow Xtreme Adhesive Refill -- goo.gl/Q4gzzL
• 3M Scotch Foam Tape -- goo.gl/Zh9JZF
• C-Thru T-Square Ruler -- goo.gl/WvYgvZ
• Memento Tuxedo Black Marker -- goo.gl/G7oVIk
• Dahle Self-Healing Cutting 18x12 Mat -- goo.gl/KeO3Qx
TO SEE MORE INFO ON SUPPLIES:
kwdesign.at/25M...
• ----- • M A I L . C A L L • ----- •
Send me your cards and they might be featured in an upcoming video! *** Please mark the month your card is for on the outside of the envelope. Only one card per person per month, please. ***
June 2016 Theme:
Cards with hearts
Due June 30, 2016
July 2016 Theme:
Cards with stars
Due July 31, 2016
MAILING ADDRESS (updated February 2021):
Kristina Werner
1878 W 12600 S
Box 509
Riverton UT 84065
UNITED STATES
You can send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you would like your card(s) returned. :)
• ----- • D I S C L A I M E R • ----- •
Some product is provided by manufacturers for review and use. Compensated affiliate links used where possible.

[@mypandapaints5854]

Just thought you'd like to know that the reason they don't seep into the paper as fast as some other watercolor papers is because Arches is considered to be pretty "hard sized" out of the watercolor paper companies (meaning they use a bit more sizing than others, giving artists a longer working time before the paper starts to pull the paint into its surface.) Also, even with the hard sizing, hot pressed surfaces tend to absorb a tad faster so you made a great choice with the Arches Cold Pressed paper for the markers. Also, I continue to love your videos!

[@teresawilson3316]

I am not using Arches Cold pressed paper and having problem with pilling. I am using Canson XL cols pressed. Why am I having a problem with this?

[@lindagregory788]

Love to try my hand at water coloring.You make it look so easy.

[@Kandicookheller]

Anyone who gave this a thumb's down has a real problem.

[@natesnana4955]

👍

[@cindyinaz2357]

It just doesn't get more beautiful then this...

[@shirlmartin953]

Okay, well, I'm going to try to make this card. I'm not even a good stamper, however I love your card and I love those stamps and I have watch this video several times over the last six month and I ready to try my hand at it. The card is for a dear friend and I have a week to make it. 🙏🏽

[@Cards4Cancer]

I am learning so much from watching your videos. I can't draw very well, so I love stamping and embossing. I have also wanted to try printing my layout from the many different stamp designs I have then using a glue pen to emboss over the lines from my printer, so I could put together a large piece printed on watercolor paper. I would love to see you do something like this to show us how well it can be done.

[@susanp9097]

Karla Bostic versamark makes a pen you can use for detailing in case the stamp didn't get all of the pattern. It can be refilled with glycerin and water mix, a diy fix. Go to frugal crafter on KZbin, she has tons of great videos! Hope this helps.

[@jenniferhammond3787]

Oh I can't wait to see more zig clean color marker videos this was gorgeous!!!! I'm going to try the arches paper!!!

[@aris6308]

How do you not have 49635837357376388273749700 subscribers yet?

[@kwernerdesign]

lol! That's so sweet. Thank you!

[@tracyg5993]

I'm pleased you described your shading methodology! Thank you. Lovely card

[@nbenefiel]

Ok, now I want a whole set of Zig markers

[@annak2575]

It was this video that made me fall in love with card making and Zig brushes!

[@jessicastull6013]

Gorgeous, as your watercolor cards always are!

[@AScrapOfKindness]

Beautiful card. I have had the stamp set for a long time and never tire of it. You can't go wrong with it. Thank you for sharing your tips.

[@j9cardstock354]

This card is absolutely beautiful! Lucky recipient. I'd put it on my wall!

[@KWCardDesign]

Good Golly you make it look so easy😁😁 Simply Stunning Kristina !

[@TheKlh54]

Beautiful, Kristina! I have not been stamping since my husband passed away last year, but your card post drew me in! Gorgeous work!

[@kwernerdesign]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm happy that some of what I do could bring a bit of joy to you. :)

[@janellegraham8896]

OMG! This is amazing!!! The depth of colour you've achieved is incredible. You're so clever. :)

[@MayholicDesign]

Absolutely beautiful!!! Thank you so much for your informative video. I learned quite a few things from you today.

[@janiehooper7235]

I love to watch and rewatch your videos I learn new ways to use my zig markers and watercolor too.Janie in Tucson

[@carlajohnson5628]

Kristina I thought I saw most if not all of your videos. I absolutely love your talent and skills. one day I watched your videos all day then made my girlfriends watch and now they too are hooked. I really just wanted to say thank u for sharing your God given talent with us. You are simply amazing.

[@inspirationalquotesanddesi2836]

Wow! I hope you can notice me😍 I am Filipino citizen. I love all your work. That's why I am making also just like yours. But sad to say some people appreciate my work. But it is okay as long as I can see all your work😍

[@piechurachristine]

You are amazing. I'm really just starting out and hope to be as good as you are at these techniques. Thank you for the videos.

[@sarahfoley6249]

q

[@KraftyPaws]

Absolutely stunning. I experimented with some inexpensive Tuesday Morning watercolor paper and these clean Color Real Brush markers and the color would not move/blend. Will be heading to the art store soon. TFS and inspiring! Hugs, Kristina

[@LisaTilsonMyCardTrip]

beautiful! gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous! I have some Zigs, but I am definitely going to add to my collection after seeing that wine red!

[@RoseMaryBowen]

Beautiful card. Love that "halo" around the flower images.

[@Suelewin]

Exquisite Kristina, you have the shadowing so perfect and the colours are amazing. Thank you and God bless

[@vickicervantes1817]

Breathtaking Beautiful exquisite masterpiece WOW😳😱🤪 That's all I can say, other than I'm going to getting these Zig Clean Brushes. And as for Watercolor Paper Arches is the only brand of Paper that I've ever used for 43 years🥰😊❤ Yes I'm old 😂🤣😄😅🥰❣

[@RinaMeyers]

Kristina, I see where you have linked the masking tape but do not see the masking paper... I was looking on Amazon and Ebay and am only finding massive rolls, any suggestions?

[@juditharowland3461]

I've had a problem with WN watercolor markers. I didn't have luck with my Arches CP and they seeped in very quickly. Any Suggestions?

[@dwhite3937]

Pretty amazing how quick they create such professional results!

[@flajeepgirl6]

You show 2 Zg 48 count sets. I can only find 1 and the link above didn't work anymore?

[@teresawilson3316]

I am having problem with pilling. Have any suggestions to remedy this. I am using Canson XL cold press watercolour paper.

[@marylehett1127]

Kristina, beautiful coloring w/Zigs. Thank you for the tutorial. I have other watercolor markers but really want the Zigs.

[@susansprott5181]

Beautiful card Kristina...love your painting...am surprised at the robust colour of the Zig Clean Colour Real Brush Markers as I've seen some works that are quite pastel in appearance but this is just so vibrant. Love watching you paint and then construct your cards...I will continue to watch and learn. Sue

[@karatekate89]

I just purchased some of these markers...I haven't tried watercoloring yet, but you inspire me! This card is gorgeous :)

[@cindybearj]

Wow! This card is so beautiful that beautiful doesn't even express it. I have no words. You are so talented. I love watching your videos and just looking at your work.

[@janes3835]

I have watched this a few times. The painted flowers are absolutely beautiful!Really, really pretty Kristina...

[@datasciyinfo5133]

Very beautiful! Thank you. Your coloring demo was very clear and helpful.

[@ksoltero2]

You inspire me...I have the Zig Clean Color Markers and work with them often, hoping to achieve results like yours.

[@Stampin494]

Excellent video! Your card is beautiful. Thank you for the commentary. I will be watching this again. Love to hear little hints about watercolor that most people probably already know!

[@clarissavicencio-wickens6448]

amazing colouring Kristina. Love the tips and techniques you have shared.

[@JenniferKellogg4700]

I can’t get the color to spread like that at all. I used strathmore cold press and my initial strokes just wouldn’t budge even though I applied the water brush immediately. I wonder if my markers are bad. They did not come individually shrink wrapped like I’ve seen on some videos.

[@mjensen602]

Fabulous coloring! Interesting how you grounded the sentiment! Would have never thought of that.

[@janets132003]

I'm sure I've commented before, but I love this card. I just got some zig markers and I've done this technique. of course, yours is so much more n beautiful.

[@pattiepan]

A really stunning card with those lovely colors...thanks Kristina.

[@conniedellinger4089]

Thank you. Just found this - have been wanting to use my stampers anonymous Flower set forever. I recently got the dies for it to. Thank you so much for this video.

[@rumpzafamily]

This card is so beautiful! I find that sometimes my water brushes let out way too much water. It doesn't look like this happens to you... Is there a trick to that or do I need a new water brush? :) Thanks!

[@annslee71]

I honestly thought the flowers were on foam tape. The gray shading really makes it 3-D. Thanks for the video.

[@anitajoannou8041]

My goal is to one day be able to colour as lovely as this. Practise, practise, practise....😊 thanks for the tips

[@glitterandglueforyou]

Kristina, can you do a video on shipping cards? Do you have any tips on packaging so they don't get bent in the mail and how to keep shipping costs low?

[@scarvalho71]

You are so talented. Each time I watch your videos I learn so much from them. Thank you for sharing your talents!

[@pamelaburke9250]

Wow! Gorgeous. I have and love this stamp set. The embossing takes it to the next level. I have Tombo markers, I hope they do as well as Zig!

[@janets132003]

The dimension you got with that darker color is just beautiful. Mine would look like a mess.

[@cherewharry]

This is my goal-to paint like this with my new Zig brush markers. Thank you for sharing.

[@02mickeymonkey]

Wauw, what a beautifull card and so nice couloured. Greetz Betha from Holland

[@elinstengrimssen9566]

Thank you Kristina I love your video and your teaching I have Zig Clean Color and I have been a litle unsure of how to use them so this is a treasure for me :)

[@LittleAmyHe]

Have you used the Tombow watercolor brushes? :) If so, how do they compare?

[@sharonfrench1087]

Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful. I'm your biggest fan.

[@dlp454]

Fabulous! I love that stamp set and with the Zip markers ... wow!

[@marihop5117]

Such a pretty card. I enjoyed the colouring. Tfs Marina :))

[@cralston86]

Another stunning watercolor card. Beautiful mate

[@dianaashton2512]

Hope the person receiving this card doesn’t throw it in the trash after all that work, would they even know how much time and effort went into it.

[@WendyCranford]

Beautiful art by the way. Love watching your videos.

[@Not2ShabbyShop]

Your card is stunning!!

[@jintyoo7]

So pretty, and magnificent colouring :-)

[@yanubagutierrez8676]

Lindo tutorial.. Excelentes colores.

[@covid-19inthistogether96]

Great job Kristina. Its very beautiful. It seems harder to get a looser watercolor painting style with these markers but they are by far the best I've tried, much better than the Tim Holtz markers. The tips are so fine, really great for detailed work and small areas like small flower petals, leaves etc. At first I could not get the colors from these markers to move very well at all on mixed media paper, then I tried Bristol Vellum which was much better, then I tried Bristol Smooth and the surface of the paper is shredding after my third layer, uggghh. The best results I'm getting are with cold press watercolor paper, and only if I use a wet on wet approach, otherwise I can't get the colors to move at all. I'm shocked that you could use these on cold press watercolor paper, wow. Did you start off with water first, ie. wet on wet, with your first flower, or your first layer for each flower? It was hard to tell from the video.

[@savannaghkacey6161]

Breathtakingly stunning! You are such an inspiration!

[@jiggy49]

Absolutely beautiful coloring in these blossoms!

[@lorrenelanger6950]

Love the look of these markers. You make it look easy. Very nice.

[@yungzubass9648]

As always, beautiful card...👍🏼

[@littlemissmakeup075]

wow the dotted line make the flowers stand out more makes them look more 3d with out the hight :O

[@strawbrryfld1]

LOVE YOUR VIDEOS!!! I ALSO LOVE the fact you indicate below your videos EXACTLY which products you used and the names of all items. It is very tedious, I know, but it is SO HELPFUL to all of "US" (especially when you want to purchase an item you might not have) THANK YOU for sharing !!!!

[@judyhosch672]

I love this video. This is the first one of yours I've seen . I'm a fan !!!

[@AngieW355]

Beautiful card! I love the colors. Tfs

[@deannamulder]

Beautiful Kristina! Love the look you got. I love the Zig Clean Brush Markers. Just a question for you. You mentioned that these pens work on some water color papers better than others. Can you tell me which ones work better and which ones to stay away from? I also wondered about the difference between cold press and hot press water color paper. What is the difference and when or why would you use on over the other. Thanks so much for all your great videos.

[@kwernerdesign]

I have a video on watercolor paper that you might check out. As for what ones to use clean color markers on, I'm really loving the Arches cold press right now. I e had good results with Strathmore as well.

[@snowdoglover9752]

You are so talented and everything you do seems effortless which means you clearly have a gift. I have just invested about $250 in supplies based on just watching your videos. I'm artsy-fartsy shall we say with some talent but I learned so much from you. I have the 48 set of markers, recommended paper, clear stamp pad + the embossing powder that you have. I'm raring to go. 💗🙏💗 Thank you so much for sharing your videos with us. Watching you is truly a delight!

[@kwernerdesign]

Yay! Sounds like you're in for some fun! :)

[@nickelvins8272]

This is absolutely STUNNING!

[@smarterthenyouknow]

card is beautiful. love the markers!

[@ssssultana]

Je n'aime pas les pointillés mais sinon carte magnifique

[@kd5145]

I am always amazed by your talent. Beautiful!

[@mpbailey18]

Great video....makes buying these brushes so tempting! But I've seen comments about these brushes drying out pretty quickly, which makes me pause before buying.

[@kwernerdesign]

I've had mine for over a year and haven't had a problem.

[@luckyortiz442]

Hermosa creación Eres fantástica

[@chubbytubby7642]

What is the water brush thing you are using,is it with the pack?

[@ohtheresheis8542]

I couldn't follow and understand what you did :(

[@patriciawatts8609]

Dear Kristina,Just had to leave a comment about your gorgeous project here with the Tim Holtz Flower garden Stamps and the wonderful Zig Real Clean Color Markers. Kristina in my opinion this is probably your most beautiful painting yet. I watch all of your videos and I am always just so amazed with your God given creative flair and talent. I admire your creations so much. I only wish that I could paint and stay within the lines. It is something that I never have been able to do. I thought you also chose an excellent stamp to use as the stamp set has some amazing possibilities. You have truly brought everything to life in your interpretation using these stamps with the fabulous markers. I really have to get the set and have a play with them. I have a nice collection of Copics. I think that I have 74 all together but I loved the brush tips on the markers which you used. I just wanted to let you know how much I love your creations Kristina, and I also love your Mail Call as well. It is such fun seeing all the beautiful cards which people and children send to you. You are certainly an true inspiration to all who follow you Kristina, and I am so glad that I am one of them.Take care and be well Kristina and I will surely be looking for so much more in the future from you.Sincerely,Trish in New Zealand ♥

[@kwernerdesign]

That's so sweet of you to say! :) I live embossing a stamped image and then watercoloring over it because it helps it stay in the lines. Have you tried that?

[@aahhh8983]

You introduced me to JetPens so I am forever indebted to you

[@covid-19inthistogether96]

very pretty colors Kristina!

[@bannfam]

excited to see this and look forward to more videos featuring the zig markers!

[@louisescherbain312]

Lovely. Thank you for sharing

[@Papergrace]

Absolutely breathtaking, Kristina. I have been wanting these markers so much, just haven't gotten them yet. Not sure why. (I know!!) You make everything look so easy. ♥

[@andrealavigne7824]

Oh wow! Gorgeous painting, Kristina! I have the 36 set of the Clean Color pens, and have used them some. But I never thought to layer them like you did here. I will really have to try that. I do have one question. Is there any reason you removed the masking paper before you sprinkled on the embossing powder? I generally leave masks in place, sprinkle on the powder, then remove the masks to heat emboss. That way, the embossing powder doesn't stick to the adhesive residue left by the masking paper. I just wonder if yours is a better way somehow? Anyway, I am so glad you are able to do videos again. Your work is fantastic, and your voice is so soothing. It really helps me on my bad depression days to watch you. Thank you so much for all you do!

[@kwernerdesign]

No particular reason. :)

[@cherylscrivens3560]

Gorgeous, Kristina, and I LOVED your video! I've not tried these and just keep watching. But you've really helped share your experience, and I appreciate that. I LOVE your work! Hugs!

[@maggiebaxter610]

Hi Kristina ~ This card is absolutely stunning. I'm going to have to pull out my Zig markers and follow you step-by-step. As always, you make everything look incredibly simple and your voice is soothing. Thanks for the inspiration and I'm glad to see you making videos once more. ~HUGS~

[@Sotolivas]

Muy muy bonito las flores de la tarjeta una 10.THANK GRACIAS

[@pattiepan]

had to watch again...really beautiful pat

[@leaht4505]

So lovely! Thanks for sharing!!!

[@vickifinger8670]

Beautiful, Kristina! A favorite in fact.

[@YouCant27]

Kristina, you're such a talented artist...you remind me of my (adult) daughter as both of you seem to create such beautiful artwork. I have all these supplies you used here, however my results are not even close to yours in my opinion..mine are nice but not stunning like yours! I started stamping way back in the early 80's mostly because I cannot draw or freehand paint anything, which always seemed to confuse my mother as I was the only one in the family who couldn't, lol. Here I am years later still stamping and thrilled that I can make lovely cards and gifts because I am able to use the artwork that someone else drew that was made into a stamp. While I will never be the artist that you are, I thank you for always being so helpful with all the information that you provide in your videos as they have helped me create better cards etc. Now...if only I had your talent and your gorgeous handwriting!! Thank you again Krisitina for all your beautiful and informative videos! xxx

[@ariesgirl3444]

A gorgeous card, beautifully coloured thanks Kristina. I have that stamp set and Zig markers, I am going to have another play with them today thanks to your inspiration. When using the Zig markers, to get a beautiful result, the paper is so important. I don't have the Arches WC paper that you used, but will look out for some. Thank you.