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| This can be done on dry paper, or applied where you wet the tree shape first then add the thicker paint using the card for texture. If you do it on dry paper you can blend portions of it with a damp brush before it dries. Or let it dry then use a wet/damp brush to paint clear or even lightly tinted water (almost like dirty water) over the shape to blend or smear the color a little to paint the lighter part of the tree. (Hint: I like to use a pale blue or lavender tinted water for this step. Remember that the paint you applied with the card will blend into this wash.) Negatively painting the edge of the tree by painting something behind it is another way to add depth, interest and value to the picture. |
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Using a palette knife to do the bark-like texture is not a new trick. But here is an interesting and easy twist to the same idea...using the side or end of an old credit card. Thicker paint works better…(less water!) Pick up the paint from your palette or brush it on the edge of the card. I like to use the paint from the puddles that has dried on the center of my palette, dip the cc in water then run it across the dried puddle of paint. Less water is a big factor for success. Use both the long and the short side of the card. I find I have better luck with the shorter side. Vary the angle of the card for different effects too. I get the best texture when the card is almost horizontal with the paper—15 degrees or less. Too much pressure won't make a good mark......use a very light touch. You might have to do some practice to find out what works best for you and for the type of paper you are using. |
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| Be sure to look for my Watercolor Tips using a credit card to scrape out trees too. Also check out the tips for blotting trees with paper towels. To return to my list of Watercolor Tips © 2002-2008 Susie Short Studio LLC All Rights Reserved Permission granted to print single copies for personal study. |
| Using a plastic card (credit card) to create rough tree bark |