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Creating amazing effects in watercolour with salt and a candle

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Here are two tips for adding depth to a sky and reflections in water.

Salt absorbs moisture.

 



It should therefore be "sprinkled" on a wet surface.

 

Using a large brush, wet the watercolour paper (Canson® Montval® is perfect for this exercise). Then apply the colour of your choice. Here, primary blue with a little ultramarine and a hint of carmine.

 

Sprinkle the salt and wait for it to dry.

Candle wax repels moisture.

 

Like all greasy objects, water "slides" off the candle wax.

 

Use a white candle. Make back-and-forth strokes on your dry paper.

 

Apply your colours to the surface.

 

Important: It is very difficult to remove the candle wax from the paper. When you "draw" with it, you won't be able to see your lines clearly. It is therefore essential to try things out beforehand to give the illusion of natural reflections.

These two tricks leave the reserve area visible, i.e. the virgin colour remains, either the white of the paper or a previous colour.

Essentials for your creations

Watercolor lovers know that choosing the right paper is key. Explore the Canson Montval® range, which is specially crafted for exceptional pigment absorption and stunning results every time.