Norway maple
Posted: January 28, 2016 Filed under: Uncategorized 23 CommentsI’m trying out something new this week. It’s a pad of Arches 140 lb, cold press paper. Not a block that’s glued down on four sides, but a pad that’s only glued on the short side. I was curious to see whether the paper would warp, because I usually tape my sheets to a backing board or use the glued block. This paper surprised me. I painted on it with very wet washes and it remained relatively flat. That’s good news, because I find this format very convenient. I love the ease of throwing the pad in my bag and it’s quite a bit more economical than the blocks (although not as cheap as cutting up your own paper!). Perfect for sketch outings because it comes in both 9″ x 12″ and 10″ x 14″ sizes.
Shari Blaukopf's Sketchbook 
I am enjoying other papers you recommended:)
Good to know..the house across the street..looks like my friend’s house a bit in Pte-Claire…except they park in front..their garage is in front;)
Your tree is so perfect.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m glad you’re enjoying the papers. Too bad I don’t make a commission on all these art supplies I recommend : )
LikeLike
Lovely. Particularly the path.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thanks Zuzala!
LikeLike
Woo-hoo, go you! Excellent.
LikeLike
Thanks!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love the swirling lines on the trunk!
LikeLike
Guess what brush that is? It’s the one you lent me in Cambodia. Makes the best swirly lines.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There’s so much to love in this but here are a few of my favorite things; the calligraphic line work in the tree and particularly the squiggles at the right side of the roots (they tickle), the graceful flow of the tree limbs, and of course the two wires by the house. The color is so subtly handled. Who could ask for more. Love it.
LikeLike
You are very kind Jeff. I’m really enjoying this paper. Somehow it’s working for me and it allows for the the light brushwork to come through.
LikeLike
I’ve wondered about those Arches pads. I’m happy to hear your review. The blocks have become so expensive and they are heavy to pack in your sketch bag. That tree is just incredible, so lively.
I’ve just tried the linen covered 8X8 Handbook watercolor journal that you like.
It will take some getting use to I think! Thanks for these materials reviews.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Linda, I really like the pads and the fact that they are not glued on all sides doesn’t bother me at all. The paper is the Handbook Journals is quite a bit thinner. I think it’s 90 lb, instead of 140 like the Arches pads, but it’s still nice paper for washes. Certainly much better than the new Moleskine paper.
LikeLike
Your trees are always so great. Good to read your review about the Arches pads!
LikeLike
Thanks Joan. I do love painting trees.
LikeLike
Wow! The tree really comes to life in this painting. Love all the knots in the bark, along with the layers of colors. Thanks again, Shari 😊
LikeLike
Thanks Linda.
LikeLike
Great composition and texture. I use a Fabriano artistico HP block. The expense is increased also because after the first few sheets the cardboard back always detaches itself and after a few more sheets the thing starts to fall apart .So you’re always left with several sheets sort of glued together that aren’t really up to very wet painting.
LikeLike
I know exactly what you mean Anne. I used to use those Fabriano blocks but I stopped because of exactly that. Also, I find that the CP paper is slightly more textured than Arches, which is the favourite for the moment.
LikeLike
Another viewing delight for me. I could look at your work for ages – the economy of brush strokes and the seemingly effortless application are genius. Not to mention the colours!
I made myself a small pad of arches paper. I clamped along one long side just using bulldog clips, and applied a thin layer of white wood glue, let it dry before removing the clips.
LikeLike
That sounds like a great way to put together the sheets Ros. Do you use some sort of backing board for this as well?
LikeLike
I haven’t done but I think you could use an old backing from a block.
LikeLike
that’s beautiful Shari , thanks for sharing -monique
LikeLike
Thanks Monique!
LikeLike