How to tear Watercolor Paper

Snipet from an actual workshop, here is an easy way to tear watercolor paper. Works well for most papers, some with heavy weaves may not tear as easily. For more information, workshops and online workshops please visit www.birgitoconnor.com

[@chelseaclerke948]

Well you are officially a genius, this is great because my desk is always a bit crowded so I never can find enough space to place my ruler to tear the big sheets without having to clear off my whole desk!

[@Watercolor101]

Now I LOVE that lol and thank you

[@SierraGal]

You are the queen of watercolor paper division!! Thank you so much. I can't wait to try this method.

[@Watercolor101]

Hi Sanda, thank you, it works best with Arches paper, other softer papers (depending on the weave) may not be as easy.

[@karenlewis632]

thank you!!!!😊, I like this but for my Christmas card this year I'm trying to get a more prounced tear ...it's the look that will fit my woodsy nature feel I want for my image..but if it persists to resist and I struggle like I did yesterday...I'll give up and use this technique...because it is a lovely tear, also. thanks so much for sharing

[@tammieroth2608]

Great technique ! Haven't seen this before!

[@JuliannaKahn]

Very helpful tutorial. Thank you for demonstrating that it also works on 300 paper

[@Watercolor101]

Yes it works beautifully for 300 lb the weave of the paper may affect how easily it tears

[@NA-rz2qf]

thank you sooooo much this is so helpful and now i have ninja vibes when i cut my watercolor papers haha

[@Watercolor101]

Yes lol me too

[@nknana3]

So going to try this! Thanks for the tip!

[@Watercolor101]

thank you

[@serenityjewel]

This is awesome. Thank you.

[@nyx_aurelia]

This is pretty genius :D

[@Watercolor101]

Thank you

[@watercolorpour]

Wonderful tip!

[@Watercolor101]

thank you

[@mikel4510]

Way cool!

[@Watercolor101]

thank you

[@Jennifer-wr9si]

Question from a novice - do the oils on your hands affect the paper if you handle it too much?

[@88feji]

Yes be careful to wipe your hands dry first before handling the paper, grease and oils on the paper may show up as stubborn paint resistant spots in your washes ... I'm sure a pro like Birgit has wiped her hands clean before doing the demonstrations, she's simply the best ..

[@sabrinalarson1526]

thanks a lot, that is very useful

[@Watercolor101]

thank you

[@MLGeb]

Can I use scissors?

[@Watercolor101]

Sure, but the wonderful thing about tearing is retaining the beautiful deckle or torn edges

[@MLGeb]

@@Watercolor101 Thank you for your answer!