I've just discovered Russ Stutler's excellent
journal item with his observations on the waterbrush. To quote from the first paragraph
For those who don't know, a water brush or waterbrush (some makers use two words while others combine them into one) has a soft plastic barrel which contains water. When you squeeze the barrel, water enters the bristles, thus eliminating the need for a separate water container. It also makes cleaning the brush between colors a breeze. These are great for watercolor sketching on location. All you need is a waterbrush, a small set of half pan watercolors and a sketchbook, plus some tissue paper or a rag. No more water bottle and cup. If you use a small sketchbook, your entire set up will fit in a pocket.
It includes:
- a list of different makes of waterbrush
- comparisons of different makes - including how they vary in use and flow of water
- observations of things to watch out for when using them
I really enjoy my dry media when sketching but I also enjoy a spot of watercolour sketching from time to time. Having acquired a Pental waterbrush, I'm much more inclined to try using watercolours as the waterbrush eliminates th need to carry water around with you all the time.
I love a waterbrush for sketching; it really does make watercolors 'on-the-spot' so easy! If you don't get along with the first one you try, don't give up on the concept. I've two different brands, both Japanese, and they're surprisingly different. I definitely prefer the one over the other.
ReplyDeleteThey are a great idea, but I find I can't paint in the same way. As you can imagine the colour on your brush gets more dilute as you paint so you can really only get a dabbing effect. And you really need to take at least two so that you have one to flood the colours with water.
ReplyDeleteI've just ordered a waterbrush and am looking forward to this new tool to help with my sketching adventures.
ReplyDelete