The Paint Lifting Test: Insights and Results
Welcome to my latest exploration of paint lifting! In this blog post, I’ll share insights from my recent YouTube video where I conducted a thorough test on various types of paint and paper to determine how easily they can be lifted and how to prevent paint to be lifted. Whether you’re a watercolour enthusiast or a gouache painter, this information is designed to help you navigate the challenges of paint lifting and enhance your creative process.
Introduction to the Paint Lifting Test
In my video, I talked about the common frustrations artists face with paint lifting. Whether you’re trying to keep a background colour intact or lift paint to create effects, understanding how different paints react can be crucial. I’ve experienced both sides of the spectrum—times when I wanted the paint to stay put and times when I desperately needed to lift it off due to mistakes. This test aims to provide solutions for those of us who want to paint with confidence and ease.
Common Issues with Paint Lifting
Many artists encounter issues with paint lifting, often due to the paint itself or the type of paper used. For instance, when painting, it can be all too easy to accidentally lift paint with water droplets. This can lead to frustration, especially when you’re aiming for a carefree painting experience. My goal with this test is to help others find solutions that allow for a more relaxed and enjoyable painting process.
Testing Different Papers and Paints
In my experiment, I used two types of paper: 100% cellulose and 100% cotton. I also tested various brands of gouache and watercolor paints, including:
- Gouache: Pebeo, Winsor & Newton, and Renesans Cover
- Watercolor: QOR, Maimeri Blu, and Winsor & Newton
Detailed Analysis of Paint Brands
I found notable differences in the consistency and application of the paints. For example, Winsor & Newton gouache is thinner and easier to apply straight from the tube, making it more beginner-friendly. In contrast, Pebeo gouache is thicker and requires more water to achieve a creamy consistency. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right paint for your style and skill level.
Testing on Two Papers: Clairefontaine Aquapad and Baohong Academy Cold Pressed Paper
I conducted tests on both types of paper to see how they interacted with the paints. The results showed that thicker paints are generally easier to lift, while thinned-down paints tend to stay put better. Additionally, I experimented with a medium called Aqua-Fix, which significantly improved the paint’s ability to adhere to the paper.
Lifting Tests and Results
During my tests, when testing gouache from pebeo and Winsor & Newton’s, I observed that the gouache lifted easily with just a damp brush. However, when I added Aqua Fix to the mix, the pigment remained intact, showcasing the effectiveness of this medium in preventing lifting.
I also tested Renesans Cover gouache, and while I initially experienced some lifting, due to the paint was not dried yet or the paint was not mixed with Aqua-Fix properly. This serves as a reminder to mix paints thoroughly with Aqua-Fix and to allow adequate drying time.
Timing Matters
Timing is crucial when it comes to lifting paint. I conducted tests at various intervals: 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and even 24 hours. Many artists suggest waiting 24 to 48 hours before applying another layer to avoid lifting the underlying paint. My findings indicated that while there was little difference in lifting with gouache at the shorter intervals, watercolor showed more variation.
Humidity and climate also play a significant role in drying times, so artists in different regions may need to adjust their waiting periods accordingly.
The Importance of Water on the Brush
Another critical factor in the lifting process is the amount of water on your brush. I demonstrated how to control the water level by wiping the brush on the rim of the water container. This technique can significantly affect the lifting results. For instance, using a damp brush with just the right amount of water can help achieve better lifting without disturbing the paint too much.
Paper Types and Their Effects
I tested both cellulose and cotton papers, and the results were telling. The 100% cotton paper provided smoother transitions and more vibrant colors, while the cellulose paper resulted in a more uneven swatches. Depending on the desired outcome, artists can choose the paper that best suits their needs.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
As I continue my testing, I plan to conduct a 24-hour test on watercolour to see if the lifting results differ from the initial tests. I also noticed that adding Aqua-Fix can create a glossy finish on certain papers, which may not be desirable for all artists. It’s essential to consider how the medium affects the final appearance of your work.
Ultimately, I encourage artists to be open-minded about their materials. The goal is to achieve the desired effect, and sometimes that means mixing mediums or using unconventional
Conclusion and Additional Resources
If you found this information helpful, please share your thoughts on my Youtube video or on my Substack. The test results can be downloaded on my Substack post here. (Subscribe for free to see the post)
Additionally, if you’re looking for unique art pieces or prints, visit my online shop to support my work. I appreciate your support and look forward to sharing more insights in my next video!
Happy painting!