Finnabair Art Basics clear gesso is much cheaper (and bigger container) and you get a smooth finish, suitable to use your markers and felt tip pens on. It's my favourite and I use it all the time when creating mixed media art journal pages. I got mine from Amazon. I hope this helps :-)
Wonderful! I love how you used white space in your project. The yellow background you included really made this something special. I always love your videos, thank you for the time and effort you put into them, helping so many of us improve our own art.
I'm so glad I found this... I've been doing colored pencil art and Art journaling for years, and would never have thought to use the gesso for this! Thank you so much, definitely going to try this, maybe this opens a whole new world of coloring for me!
love your tips. I am a new artist I have been trying everything including how to draw classes; I had no handle on perspective or shadows so I did come upon something I have not heard or read elsewhere. at a dollar store I bought thin chopping mats and have cut down to the sizes of my art pads this takes care of moisture leaking through, would work well with gesso without tape and wax paper also keep hard pencil presses or credit cards etc. from scoring the pages. thanks again for your sharing; pat
Hi Jennifer. Would love to see some tutorials using Caran d'Ache Neocolor II, Liquid Pearls, Finetec/Coloro Watercolor paints, Distress Markers, Distress Crayons, and Gelatos. Love your videos. Thank you so much!!
Thank you for this video! I was going through your blog, because I love my Premium Membership, and came across this video! I have Gesso, because I took an art class online. However, because of some illness, I did not get to finish the class and I completely forgot what the Gesso was for. So, when I saw this video title, I HAD to watch it! Thank you for posting it! I'm going to try this technique in the future. I have white gesso, so I need to get clear gesso. (AND...I probably need to re-educate myself about how/why to use the white gesso! ;) ) Thanks again for all of your beautiful pages and videos! Have a great day!
I use Mont Marte. I also purchased marble dust to make my own clear gesso but needed to make sure of the proper consistency. A light coat is recommended.
What an awesome idea!! I have been wanting to use watercolor pencils on my coloring books for awhile. I had been wondering about whether workable fixative would work, but now I know I can use clear gesso. Thank you so much!!
There is a product called absorbent ground that is specially made to prepare surfaces to handle watercolor. I'm not sure if it comes in clear, of it's just white. But it might be translucent enough to be used on coloring pages. I have never used it, because I can get find it where I live (no liquitex here). But I know liquitex makes it.
I use clear gesso for paint by numbers canvases! You Can sand the clear gesso when it’s rough or use Diana Wakely’s smooth clear gesso. The 24 hours applies for oil paints!
I tried it once but I did not like the feel of it for colored pencil, I thought something was wrong. Now I will try it for watercolors and maybe sand it a bit. Thank you.
Woo hoo! I was just asking somebody earlier about the paper in a coloring book that I was interested in - whether the paper could tolerate watercolors (I particularly like the Zig Clean Color Real Brush pens and am about to venture into the world of Derwent Inktense pencils) - I'm delighted to find out about something that makes the paper quality not really matter if I fall in love with a particular book. Thank you so much for this enlightenment! :)
Hello from Australia. Loved this tip will be trying tomorrow. An idea for another tutorial is pastel pencils. I was given some for Christmas and really do not know their uses. any tips would be welcomed. 💙💚💜💛
+Lesley McLeod, hello Australia! I am glad you enjoyed this tutorial. I would love to play with some pastel pencils! I will put that suggestion on my list of ideas. Thanks!
I DIY Clear Gesso; it is 1 cup PVA (or school) glue (plastic sealant) + 1/4 cup water (makes it fluid) + Corn starch (adds tooth to grab whatever medium you want to use). The recipe calls for 4-5 Tbspoons corn starch/marble dust/calcium carbonate but you want to add a little at a time to find the grit you want. Glue and corn starch both dry clear, with the corn starch creating the matte finish -- the bits/grit actually disperse the light so it's not reflected back to your eye as shiny. Another possibility is to use chalk dust instead, which I want to experiment with personally, since at the right mixture it'll mostly cover the black lines of the art to where they are simply hinting guidelines, instead of obtrusive black scars, No disrespect to the artist. The black just breaks up what might otherwise be a muted pastel scene.
This is a great idea. My problem is that I will scan a page on 100lb card stock on an inkjet printer. Unfortunately the printing smears when I put the gesso on. I tried spraying it with two coats of fixative before applying the gesso and it still smeared. I have been told that if you have access to a laser printer (I don't) that you can cover the pages w/o smearing.
+John Batt, this is one reason I upgraded to a laser printer. There is a big difference in the printing quality. Unfortunately, they are much more expensive.
Coloring Pages Bliss I can even use my water soluble oilz in my books as long as the pages have 4 days or so to dry. I xan go to a copy shop and get them printed.
Thank you! My gesso not sure what type 🤦♀️ has probably expired waiting for the aspiring artist (aka. art supplies collector), but this video inspired to try this technique. What kind of media can one use on top of that gesso? I haven't tried coloring books yet but wanted to try a couple (in the reviews though many people say on amz that the markers bleed through.. I am not fond of markers yet, like watercolor look...)
Art Basic Gesso is the best if you don't want a gritty/toothy texture. Also putting it on with a sponge brush and smoothing it with an old gift card/credit card works well.
o...m..g! why did i not think of this! absolutely brilliant!!! tfs! i have all materials to try this at home, i just dont have wax paper. It something that is not sold here in the Netherlands. any idea what i can use instead? maybe a large sheet of regular paper will do?
Give it a try! You could try parchment paper, a self healing cutting board, maybe even a flattened breakfast cereal box would work. Let us know what you discover. 😊
Wax paper is similar, though not exact, to what's known as GREASEPROOF paper in the UK. Wax paper, though, has a definite more waxy texture. I'd maybe use some greaseproof paper or parchment paper, or even some Saran Wrap (plastic wrap used to cover a bowl-can't remember what my friend calls it. Lol). Be careful, though, and check that that the gesso isn't leaking through the parchment/grease proof paper--it should not leak, I don't think, but just to be safe..... I hope that helps you.
Glassine is another "paper" quite similar to wax paper in appearance and smoothness, but not waxy. Usually wax paper is cheaper & is sold in grocery stores for kitchen use, at least here in the USA, but glassine is still very affordable & comes in rolls, and is available in any art supply store, as apparently it's used as an archival quality separator between flat artworks so they don't rub on each other or stain each other. Perfect for coloring book page protection!
Hi Jennifer! Thanks for the great tip! Questions: Can you use colored pencil after application? What about gel pens? I'm assuming, of course that Sharpies will do great after application, yes?
+Cindy Knapper, the gesso leaves a tooth or texture behind, so any art tool that likes a texture will work fantastic...like colored pencil, pastels, etc. Markers will work great, but the texture could damage the marker tip so be careful or use markers that are not your "best". Gel pens will work but getting a straight line may be tricky.
Coloring Pages Bliss I've been researching this ever since learning about it on your channel (thank you!), & I found this article about a product by Ranger, in their Dyan Reaveley line, which is supposed to be kinder to marker nibs (& possibly gel pens or pencils). I've never tried it (or any other clear gesso, for that matter), so I can't say for certain, but the article I read provides a favorable review. Here's the link if anyone wants to read it: artistcellar.com/blogs/news/74654469-heres-to-clear-gesso
Coloring Pages Bliss You are most welcome! 😀 I went ahead & picked up the Liquitex Clear Gesso at Michaels (w/ a 40% off coupon, of course), & I'm really looking forward to trying it. They also carry some Dyan Reaveley products, but I couldn't find the Gesso. Happy coloring!
Hi Jennifer! I love your videos! I have a question about this technique. Can I use it to keep my Sharpies from bleeding through the page? I know I would want to find a Gesso with a little less tooth, but need to know if the technique would work before I spend the money.
+Kay Petrie, I have done some experimenting with this, and I have run into some issues. The tooth being one, also some of the paper treatments you can buy will change the way the markers lay down...sort of like the difference between coloring on paper and plastic. I am doing more experimenting with the hopes to discover a solution. If you find something, I'd love to know!
I'm thrilled to learn this. I tried clear gesso once but didn't like how regular pencils worked on it. Who knew it would let use wet medium?? Thanks! PS I stick to dickblick.com or jerrysartarama.com for supplies like gesso. Your regular craft stores mark it up too much!
+Nancy Waltz, I have tested a lot of things with mixed results. I'm still testing several more options, but I have been pulled away to work on a few other projects. Hopefully I can get back to this sometime soon.
I've used gelatin but never gesso. I saw someone use gesso once and I thought they watered it down before using. have you tried and compared it to just using gelatin?
+shawna ferguson, no...gesso has some grit in it to give your work surface some texture or tooth once it dries. Gel medium is more like...acrylic paint without any pigment crossed with modgepodge, lol. I want to do a video about this, but I haven't had time. There is soooo much to learn. I had the same question you had, so I went out and did some research.
Thought so too. An as you only need regular babypowder (some recipies work with marble dust but that is not as easy available as the baby powder), white glue and water I will try it. In my opinion Gesso premanufaktured is way to expensiv.
I'd recommend the baby powder, because marble dust is too coarse and leaves lumps. You could use chalk dust instead, but I do not know how well that works, I haven't tried that yet. I just love that my self made Gesso works very well, turns out smooth and smells very good, too.
+mon9427, most gesso has a bit of grit in it to replace the tooth of the paper. But...each brand has a slightly different formula so you may find different consistencies. I don't have a specific recommendation. I would check out the Bible journaling blogs for ideas.
if you want to continue to use clear gesso (it's great stuff) I suggest looking up Pink Poodle Crafts here on youtube and look for her DIY clear gesso. the initial investment will be more than that little bottle - BUT you'll end up with what seems to me to be a lifetime supply!
+Evelyn Barney, great suggestion. I have looked into making my own gesso. If I get a chance to circle back to working with watercolors, I will definitely make some of my own.
+Kristine Harkin, good question. There is a large community of people who do bible journaling. They like to do art and note taking directly in their bibles. They use a gesso treatment to help stiffen the delicate Pages of the Bible to help them be able to add paint and other art products to the Pages. It is amazing!
I found the Liquitex Clear Gesso to be TOO toothy. Art Basics brand clear gesso is smooth. I just bought Golden Satin Glazing Liquid. It adds tooth, but it is superfine tooth.
+Lisa Longo that is my coloring book...A Taste of Bliss. It is available as a PDF download on my website and will be available in printed form again soon.
The ripples were not temporary for me. I had to try to lay the page under some heavy books, and it still curled a little bit. I am thinking that I may have to iron it to get it to lie flat.
MICHAELS SELLS A BIGGER BOTTLED FOR 22.00 I USED A 50% COUPON GOT A BIG BOTTLE FOR 11.00 + TAX. IF YOU ARE A REWARDS MEMBER THEY SEND OUT 60% COUPONS THEY LET YOU DO 2 TRANSACTIONS SEPARATE. I USUALLY BRING MY HUSBAND HE GETS TO USE THE 60 COUPON 2 TIMES THEN I DO SO I GET 4 THINGS. DOES THE GESSO USE UP THE COLORED PENCIL FAST? OR HURT YOUR PAINT BRUSHES?
+becky quick, that's some good coupon shopping! The texture in the gesso will grab more of the core off of your pencil, so you will need to adjust your pressure when applying it. Most watercolor brushes are designed to be used on a surface with tooth, so this shouldn't be a problem. Have fun!
You are single handily taking the FEAR out of all things scary that relate to coloring. Thank you, thank you ☺️😘
+Jana Dean, yay! So glad I am helping you so much. 💜❤️💛💚💙😊
Finnabair Art Basics clear gesso is much cheaper (and bigger container) and you get a smooth finish, suitable to use your markers and felt tip pens on. It's my favourite and I use it all the time when creating mixed media art journal pages. I got mine from Amazon. I hope this helps :-)
Thanks for the suggestion. I will check it out.
I can't wait to get my hands on some clear gesso and I love the idea of packing up my pencils, pens and coloring books for nice day outside!
Wonderful! I love how you used white space in your project. The yellow background you included really made this something special. I always love your videos, thank you for the time and effort you put into them, helping so many of us improve our own art.
I'm so glad I found this... I've been doing colored pencil art and Art journaling for years, and would never have thought to use the gesso for this! Thank you so much, definitely going to try this, maybe this opens a whole new world of coloring for me!
+dshogan181, so glad I could help! 😊
I have seen Gesso used before. I've been contemplating trying it thanks for the review!
love your tips. I am a new artist I have been trying everything including how to draw classes; I had no handle on perspective or shadows so I did come upon something I have not heard or read elsewhere. at a dollar store I bought thin chopping mats and have cut down to the sizes of my art pads this takes care of moisture leaking through, would work well with gesso without tape and wax paper also keep hard pencil presses or credit cards etc. from scoring the pages. thanks again for your sharing; pat
+Patricia Windholtz, thanks for the suggestions!
OMG, what a wonderful idea! A must try. Thank you so much.
Hi Jennifer. Would love to see some tutorials using Caran d'Ache Neocolor II, Liquid Pearls, Finetec/Coloro Watercolor paints, Distress Markers, Distress Crayons, and Gelatos. Love your videos. Thank you so much!!
Thank you for this video! I was going through your blog, because I love my Premium Membership, and came across this video! I have Gesso, because I took an art class online. However, because of some illness, I did not get to finish the class and I completely forgot what the Gesso was for. So, when I saw this video title, I HAD to watch it! Thank you for posting it! I'm going to try this technique in the future. I have white gesso, so I need to get clear gesso. (AND...I probably need to re-educate myself about how/why to use the white gesso! ;) ) Thanks again for all of your beautiful pages and videos! Have a great day!
I use Mont Marte. I also purchased marble dust to make my own clear gesso but needed to make sure of the proper consistency. A light coat is recommended.
What an awesome idea!! I have been wanting to use watercolor pencils on my coloring books for awhile. I had been wondering about whether workable fixative would work, but now I know I can use clear gesso. Thank you so much!!
+Kalona Sparks, glad I could help. Have fun painting and coloring!
I was actually wondering the other day if this would work, so thank you for finding out and doing this video 🙂
I have just started using water color on my coloring books. Have to try this.
+zekehooper, I hope it helps. I love how many different ways we can color. I don't think we will ever get bored!
This is a great trick! I have so many coloring pages that are too thin for water based mediums. Thanks!!!
+BunnyLaRue, glad you like it. So many fun options in the art world!
There is a product called absorbent ground that is specially made to prepare surfaces to handle watercolor. I'm not sure if it comes in clear, of it's just white. But it might be translucent enough to be used on coloring pages. I have never used it, because I can get find it where I live (no liquitex here). But I know liquitex makes it.
I use clear gesso for paint by numbers canvases! You Can sand the clear gesso when it’s rough or use Diana Wakely’s smooth clear gesso. The 24 hours applies for oil paints!
I tried it once but I did not like the feel of it for colored pencil, I thought something was wrong. Now I will try it for watercolors and maybe sand it a bit. Thank you.
First time I've heard of this ! Thanks so much. I can't wait to try it in one of my coloring books !
Woo hoo! I was just asking somebody earlier about the paper in a coloring book that I was interested in - whether the paper could tolerate watercolors (I particularly like the Zig Clean Color Real Brush pens and am about to venture into the world of Derwent Inktense pencils) - I'm delighted to find out about something that makes the paper quality not really matter if I fall in love with a particular book. Thank you so much for this enlightenment! :)
+Ker the Bear, yay! So glad I could help right when you needed it. Have fun!
Gesso is easily applied with a Paintbrush.. Easier than with a palette knife.
what a beautiful country site! I love that trick.
Hello from Australia. Loved this tip will be trying tomorrow. An idea for another tutorial is pastel pencils. I was given some for Christmas and really do not know their uses. any tips would be welcomed. 💙💚💜💛
+Lesley McLeod, hello Australia! I am glad you enjoyed this tutorial. I would love to play with some pastel pencils! I will put that suggestion on my list of ideas. Thanks!
I would have been afraid to do this without your video, thank you! :)
+Aunt Barbara, glad I could help. Have fun with it.
I DIY Clear Gesso; it is 1 cup PVA (or school) glue (plastic sealant) + 1/4 cup water (makes it fluid) + Corn starch (adds tooth to grab whatever medium you want to use). The recipe calls for 4-5 Tbspoons corn starch/marble dust/calcium carbonate but you want to add a little at a time to find the grit you want. Glue and corn starch both dry clear, with the corn starch creating the matte finish -- the bits/grit actually disperse the light so it's not reflected back to your eye as shiny. Another possibility is to use chalk dust instead, which I want to experiment with personally, since at the right mixture it'll mostly cover the black lines of the art to where they are simply hinting guidelines, instead of obtrusive black scars, No disrespect to the artist. The black just breaks up what might otherwise be a muted pastel scene.
This is a great idea. My problem is that I will scan a page on 100lb card stock on an inkjet printer. Unfortunately the printing smears when I put the gesso on. I tried spraying it with two coats of fixative before applying the gesso and it still smeared. I have been told that if you have access to a laser printer (I don't) that you can cover the pages w/o smearing.
+John Batt, this is one reason I upgraded to a laser printer. There is a big difference in the printing quality. Unfortunately, they are much more expensive.
Coloring Pages Bliss I can even use my water soluble oilz in my books as long as the pages have 4 days or so to dry. I xan go to a copy shop and get them printed.
Thank you for the tip...who knew Gesso could be used in pages of my book.
+kathy marine, pretty exciting! Have fun adding it to your pages.
Thank you! My gesso not sure what type 🤦♀️ has probably expired waiting for the aspiring artist (aka. art supplies collector), but this video inspired to try this technique. What kind of media can one use on top of that gesso? I haven't tried coloring books yet but wanted to try a couple (in the reviews though many people say on amz that the markers bleed through.. I am not fond of markers yet, like watercolor look...)
Watching in 2024. Hi Jen, would you still recommend this product for colouring books nowadays? Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺❤️
Have you tried smoother gesso brands lately? Liquitex Clear gesso is very toothy! Really hard on brushes and ok soft wax pencils!
You mean you apply this gesso before coloring it or after you colored it? Thanks
I'm using Art Basics clear gesso. It works fine. I don't have any other brand so I've never made any comparison.
Thank you so so so so so much for this! You are wonderful ❤️
Thank you. Keep up the great work.
liquitex is excellent!
Thx for that info 👏👏👏. What is the protection of the dents when blending? 😢.
Art Basic Gesso is the best if you don't want a gritty/toothy texture. Also putting it on with a sponge brush and smoothing it with an old gift card/credit card works well.
+Hope E. Kelly, I've heard that brand works good...thanks for the advice and tips 😊❤️
Does Mod Podge come in clear and would that work to seal the paper? Thank you Jennifer.
Great tip. I'm going to try it.
Keisha, have fun!
o...m..g! why did i not think of this! absolutely brilliant!!! tfs!
i have all materials to try this at home, i just dont have wax paper. It something that is not sold here in the Netherlands. any idea what i can use instead? maybe a large sheet of regular paper will do?
Give it a try! You could try parchment paper, a self healing cutting board, maybe even a flattened breakfast cereal box would work. Let us know what you discover. 😊
Wax paper is similar, though not exact, to what's known as GREASEPROOF paper in the UK. Wax paper, though, has a definite more waxy texture. I'd maybe use some greaseproof paper or parchment paper, or even some Saran Wrap (plastic wrap used to cover a bowl-can't remember what my friend calls it. Lol). Be careful, though, and check that that the gesso isn't leaking through the parchment/grease proof paper--it should not leak, I don't think, but just to be safe..... I hope that helps you.
Glassine is another "paper" quite similar to wax paper in appearance and smoothness, but not waxy. Usually wax paper is cheaper & is sold in grocery stores for kitchen use, at least here in the USA, but glassine is still very affordable & comes in rolls, and is available in any art supply store, as apparently it's used as an archival quality separator between flat artworks so they don't rub on each other or stain each other. Perfect for coloring book page protection!
Hi Jennifer! Thanks for the great tip! Questions: Can you use colored pencil after application? What about gel pens? I'm assuming, of course that Sharpies will do great after application, yes?
+Cindy Knapper, the gesso leaves a tooth or texture behind, so any art tool that likes a texture will work fantastic...like colored pencil, pastels, etc. Markers will work great, but the texture could damage the marker tip so be careful or use markers that are not your "best". Gel pens will work but getting a straight line may be tricky.
Coloring Pages Bliss I've been researching this ever since learning about it on your channel (thank you!), & I found this article about a product by Ranger, in their Dyan Reaveley line, which is supposed to be kinder to marker nibs (& possibly gel pens or pencils). I've never tried it (or any other clear gesso, for that matter), so I can't say for certain, but the article I read provides a favorable review. Here's the link if anyone wants to read it: artistcellar.com/blogs/news/74654469-heres-to-clear-gesso
+Heather Loughlin, thank you! I will definitely go read it tonight during my insomnia hours. 😊😴
Coloring Pages Bliss You are most welcome! 😀 I went ahead & picked up the Liquitex Clear Gesso at Michaels (w/ a 40% off coupon, of course), & I'm really looking forward to trying it. They also carry some Dyan Reaveley products, but I couldn't find the Gesso. Happy coloring!
Do you have a video showing the end result of this process. I gessoed a page and had problems with it being splotchy and not covering well.
Hi Jennifer! I love your videos! I have a question about this technique. Can I use it to keep my Sharpies from bleeding through the page? I know I would want to find a Gesso with a little less tooth, but need to know if the technique would work before I spend the money.
+Kay Petrie, I have done some experimenting with this, and I have run into some issues. The tooth being one, also some of the paper treatments you can buy will change the way the markers lay down...sort of like the difference between coloring on paper and plastic. I am doing more experimenting with the hopes to discover a solution. If you find something, I'd love to know!
I'm thrilled to learn this. I tried clear gesso once but didn't like how regular pencils worked on it. Who knew it would let use wet medium?? Thanks! PS I stick to dickblick.com or jerrysartarama.com for supplies like gesso. Your regular craft stores mark it up too much!
+Allison Bonk, I'm glad you liked my tutorial! I totally agree about the mark ups! I try to only shop there with my coupons, or for small items.
Have you tried any of the artist spray fixatives to waterproof the paper?
+Nancy Waltz, I have tested a lot of things with mixed results. I'm still testing several more options, but I have been pulled away to work on a few other projects. Hopefully I can get back to this sometime soon.
@355 you mention using gesso on Bible pages, but why? Do you colour your Bible? Does it blot out the bits you don't want to see?
I just bought some because my alcohol markers were bleeding through my expensive coloring book. Someone mentioned sanding though if u use markers?
I've used gelatin but never gesso. I saw someone use gesso once and I thought they watered it down before using. have you tried and compared it to just using gelatin?
Love the coloring book! What is the name of it, please?
+Mindy Parke, thanks! It is my Best of Bliss that is available as PDF download right now (we sold out). It will be available printed soon. 😊
Can u put a paper towel beneath the page will taht work
I was told it the rough texture bothers, you can take a paper towel after the Gesso is dry and wipe off your page. I have not had a chance to try it.
you can also use very very finw sandpaper to sand it down to a smooth surface:)
These are great ideas!! I will try both of them. Thanks 😊
Whee! Have gesso. Ready to roll. Thanks, thanks, thanks.
That's awesome Marlise! Have fun!!
i'll be using my derwent inktense in books, that i couldnt, before i saw this. thanks
will the fixative work in a bit like the gesso?
Im a painter and I can tell you that you can use ANY TYPE of Gesso.
Any Art Supply store will sell it. Michaels etc...
Is Clear Mette Gel Medium the same as Gesso?
+shawna ferguson, no...gesso has some grit in it to give your work surface some texture or tooth once it dries. Gel medium is more like...acrylic paint without any pigment crossed with modgepodge, lol. I want to do a video about this, but I haven't had time. There is soooo much to learn. I had the same question you had, so I went out and did some research.
Great video!!
Thanks Jana 😊
Brilliant!!!!
+Lynn Graves, thank you. 😊
If you find the cost prohibitive, there are several videos on how to make gesso. Just be sure it is the clear gesso.
Thought so too. An as you only need regular babypowder (some recipies work with marble dust but that is not as easy available as the baby powder), white glue and water I will try it. In my opinion Gesso premanufaktured is way to expensiv.
I'd recommend the baby powder, because marble dust is too coarse and leaves lumps. You could use chalk dust instead, but I do not know how well that works, I haven't tried that yet. I just love that my self made Gesso works very well, turns out smooth and smells very good, too.
ColorAndCalm
thanks for the hint
+Handmade Cards, I'm glad you liked it. Have fun using it in your art.
You can get gesso (and other art stuff) WAY WAY WAY cheaper on Amazon. (I priced some stuff.)
I bought this clear gesso and found it to be way too gritty. Can you recommend a smoother one?
+mon9427, most gesso has a bit of grit in it to replace the tooth of the paper. But...each brand has a slightly different formula so you may find different consistencies. I don't have a specific recommendation. I would check out the Bible journaling blogs for ideas.
I'm wondering if you want the protection but don't want the tooth, what would happen if you painted only on the back side of the page?
+renate edwards, I think the paper would still tend to pill up and fall apart due to the water, but I'm just guessing...give it a try and let us know.
Is this ur artwork and can it be purchased?
Yvette, come visit my website to see my art...and yes, this is my art!
ColoringPagesBliss.com
can you use a dryer on it to work on it faster. the coloring book .
+Catrena Belgamh, yes! That would work great. 😊
If you're talking about a hair dryer you can get stands that hold the dryer for you.
hi I'm curious about this so may want to try this method. how is it spelt e.g. Jesso? thanks
Very good question! I had to look it up when I first learned about it to make sure I was pronouncing it correctly. It is spelled gesso. Have fun!
Do you have this particular coloring book for sale?
+Michele Johnson-Utter, unfortunately it is sold out. Thanks for asking.
Coloring Pages Bliss that's too bad! It is a beautiful book🙁
what a great idea. wonder if you did it on the back of the page it would work also?
+zekehooper, I'm not sure. Let me know if you try it.
Where can I buy your book, please. Thank you. Shanti
+Shanti Deva, unfortunately it is sold out right now. We are hoping to reprint soon. It will be announced on my Facebook page when it is ready.
if you want to continue to use clear gesso (it's great stuff) I suggest looking up Pink Poodle Crafts here on youtube and look for her DIY clear gesso. the initial investment will be more than that little bottle - BUT you'll end up with what seems to me to be a lifetime supply!
+Evelyn Barney, great suggestion. I have looked into making my own gesso. If I get a chance to circle back to working with watercolors, I will definitely make some of my own.
Can you substitute parchment paper instead of wax paper?
+Jennifer Akridge, probably...but watch to make sure moisture isn't transferring to the Pages beneath.
Thank you Jennifer
Thankyou for sharing this I had no idea about this product, you mentioned about using this in bibles, why ?
+Kristine Harkin, good question. There is a large community of people who do bible journaling. They like to do art and note taking directly in their bibles. They use a gesso treatment to help stiffen the delicate Pages of the Bible to help them be able to add paint and other art products to the Pages. It is amazing!
I found the Liquitex Clear Gesso to be TOO toothy. Art Basics brand clear gesso is smooth. I just bought Golden Satin Glazing Liquid. It adds tooth, but it is superfine tooth.
What coloring book is that?
+Lisa Longo that is my coloring book...A Taste of Bliss. It is available as a PDF download on my website and will be available in printed form again soon.
What dept is it in?
+Yvette Williams, the gesso will be where they sell art paint in any craft store...even Walmart sells it!
Good to know the ripples are only temporary.
The ripples were not temporary for me. I had to try to lay the page under some heavy books, and it still curled a little bit. I am thinking that I may have to iron it to get it to lie flat.
With this method when you use markers do they bleed?
hearing about this product makes me miss bob ross :)
+Tiffany B, good old Bob Ross! I still watch him!
+Coloring Pages Bliss
me too. I watch his show on RUclips :)
You sound so young.
I use a heat gun to dry it
MICHAELS SELLS A BIGGER BOTTLED FOR 22.00 I USED A 50% COUPON GOT A BIG BOTTLE FOR 11.00 + TAX. IF YOU ARE A REWARDS MEMBER THEY SEND OUT 60% COUPONS THEY LET YOU DO 2 TRANSACTIONS SEPARATE. I USUALLY BRING MY HUSBAND HE GETS TO USE THE 60 COUPON 2 TIMES THEN I DO SO I GET 4 THINGS. DOES THE GESSO USE UP THE COLORED PENCIL FAST? OR HURT YOUR PAINT BRUSHES?
+becky quick, that's some good coupon shopping! The texture in the gesso will grab more of the core off of your pencil, so you will need to adjust your pressure when applying it. Most watercolor brushes are designed to be used on a surface with tooth, so this shouldn't be a problem. Have fun!
I make my own clear gesso.
How would you sharpen wet watercolor pencils?
Why not just transfer to watercolor paper? Much faster.