How to Use Drawing Gum: A Step--Step Guide
Drawing gum, also known as masking fluid, is a versatile tool that can be used to create incredible effects in your artwork. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, learning how to use drawing gum properly can greatly enhance your creative process. In this article, we will provide you with a step--step guide on how to use drawing gum effectively.
Step 1: Gather your materials
Before you start using drawing gum, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You will need drawing gum, a brush or a nib pen, watercolor or any other medium of your choice, and a water container.
Step 2: Prepare your surface
Ensure that your paper or canvas is clean and free from any dust or dirt. This will help the drawing gum adhere properly and prevent any unwanted smudging.
Step 3: Shake the bottle
Drawing gum tends to separate, so it’s important to shake the bottle well before using it. This will ensure that the product is evenly mixed and ready to use.
Step 4: Apply the drawing gum
Using a brush or a nib pen, apply the drawing gum to the areas you want to preserve. This could be the highlights of your subject, specific shapes, or any other details you wish to protect from your medium. Make sure to apply a thick layer of the gum to ensure that it covers the desired area completely.
Step 5: Let it dry
Allow the drawing gum to dry completely. Depending on the humidity and thickness of the application, this may take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. Avoid touching the gum while it’s drying, as it may smudge or lose its effectiveness.
Step 6: Apply your medium
Once the drawing gum is dry, you can begin applying your chosen medium, such as watercolor or ink. The gum will act as a resist, preventing the medium from adhering to the protected areas. This allows you to create sharp, clean edges and preserve the white of the paper or canvas.
Step 7: Remove the drawing gum
Once your medium is completely dry, it’s time to remove the drawing gum. Gently rub the gum with your finger or use an eraser to lift it off the surface. Avoid using excessive force, as this may damage the paper or canvas.
Step 8: Refine your artwork
Now that the drawing gum is removed, you can refine your artwork adding more details, shading, or additional layers of color. The protected areas will remain untouched, creating a striking contrast with the rest of your artwork.
Common Questions and Answers:
Q1: Is drawing gum only suitable for watercolor?
A1: No, drawing gum can be used with various mediums, including ink, acrylics, and gouache.
Q2: Can I reuse the drawing gum once it’s dried?
A2: No, drawing gum cannot be reused. It loses its adhesive properties once it dries.
Q3: How do I clean my brush after using drawing gum?
A3: Rinse your brush with water immediately after using drawing gum to prevent it from hardening. If the gum dries on the brush, you can try soaking it in an ammonia solution to remove it.
Q4: Can drawing gum damage my paper or canvas?
A4: If used correctly, drawing gum should not damage your surface. However, it’s always advisable to test it on a small area before applying it to your entire artwork.
Q5: Can I paint over the drawing gum?
A5: No, it’s best to remove the drawing gum before applying any additional layers of paint or medium.
Q6: How long can I leave the drawing gum on my artwork?
A6: It’s recommended to remove the drawing gum as soon as your medium is completely dry. Leaving it on for an extended period may make it difficult to remove and may cause damage to your artwork.
Q7: Can I use a heat gun or hairdryer to speed up the drying process?
A7: It’s not advisable to use heat to dry the drawing gum, as it may cause it to bubble or crack.
Q8: Can I use drawing gum on canvas?
A8: Yes, drawing gum can be used on canvas. However, ensure that the canvas is properly primed, as the gum may adhere differently to unprimed surfaces.
Q9: Can drawing gum be tinted or colored?
A9: Yes, you can add a small amount of watercolor or ink to the drawing gum to create a tinted effect.
Q10: Can I apply drawing gum with a palette knife or other tools?
A10: While brushes and nib pens are commonly used, you can experiment with other tools to apply the drawing gum and create unique textures.
Q11: Can I paint directly over the drawing gum without waiting for it to dry?
A11: No, it’s important to allow the drawing gum to dry completely before applying any medium on top.
Q12: Can I remove drawing gum from my clothes?
A12: Unfortunately, drawing gum can be difficult to remove from fabric. It’s best to wear an apron or old clothing while using it.
Q13: Can I use drawing gum to create textured effects?
A13: Yes, drawing gum can be applied in different ways to create textured effects, such as stippling or splattering.
By following these steps and guidelines, you can effectively use drawing gum to enhance your artwork. Remember to experiment and have fun with this versatile tool, as it can add depth and dimension to your creations.