Watercolour media and sprays: controlling the water
Watercolour paper, how much water to use and how to stop bases from warping.
Anything that involves water (watercolour pencils, distress, sprays) needs 300 gsm paper and patience. The difference between a clean wash and a puddle is how much water you use and drying between layers.
Supplies
- 300 gsm watercolour paper — Watercolors
- Watercolour pencils or inks / sprays
- Water brush or brush + water
- Wipes and scrap paper
Step by step
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Tape it down or accept the buckle
Wet paper warps. Tape it to a rigid surface or work free and press it flat between books once dry.
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Less water than you think
Start with an almost dry brush. You can always add more; removing a puddle is harder.
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Transparent layers
Let each wash dry before the next. Wet-on-wet mixes; wet-on-dry gives defined edges.
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Protect what you do not want wet
Mask with sticky notes, washi or masking fluid around sentiments and clean areas.
Practical tips
- Sprays are easier to control from 30–40 cm away, in short bursts.
- If the paper warps a lot, once dry iron on low heat with a thin cloth on top.
FAQ
Will ordinary cardstock work?
Only for very dry touches. Real water wrinkles it and it will not recover.
Related products
A few products from the shop to practise what this tutorial covers:
