Dear Helen, I so enjoyed the calm and mellow style with which you present & describe your purchases. Many many other MC's use the format to explode with squeaky loud high monologs, rabbiting on until the interest level you could well be having in the items is sadly overwhelmed by their pitch and speed. Your langorous enjoyment in your products and plans to use them made my day! Thank you. Thank goodness!!
Thank you so much for reading your comments! You cannot imagine how delightful it is to find a response from you ‐ it strongly adds to the sense of community and connectivity. Onwards!
Nice haul! Tip: If you use a brush for Metallics make sure you mark it and keep separate from your other watercolour brushes as no matter how much you wash or how well, it will continue to let out tiny bits of mica. You should also use totality separate water containers for the same reason.
I love that you focus this video on the products themselves and how the different brushes compare with the same paint and paper. Gives us a better idea of what to expect if we decide to purchase these products ourselves. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Discovered your channel today and subscribed. Your videos have a certain ASMR-Quality to them. As a beginner I not only learn a lot, I also feel my 'resident' anxiety go below threshold. Especially the real quiet parts where you are focused on what you are doing are a balm for my nerves! Thank you :-)
Really enjoyed the whole video Helen, it's so nice to listen to a well-modulated gentle voice and watching swatches which gradually fill a page and become an artwork in themselves
Thanks for the vlog, haul and swatching. I just bought a Princeton brush which really impressed me. A Long Round, size 12. It holds more liquid because it's longer, is really flexible and has a fantastic fine point. Thanks again, Jo in France 🇫🇷
I’m excited for you to discover cotton paper. It’s a game-changer! Those thirsty Aqua Elite brushes in your haul will behave differently on the Arches. You might find you’re dealing with too much water. (At least that was my experience.). I enjoyed this video and listened to you discuss your haul as I painted here at home. Very relaxing, almost as if I were painting and talking with a friend next to me. Not all videos need to be dramatic, right?
Thank you! I'm finding I really love it, but still hesitate to use it a bit, because I feel I need to save it for 'best'! Not much drama here! I'm really glad some people find that suits them!
Happy to be a subscriber. Really like the mix of art and supplies. I think the best thing about arches and cotton paper in general, is that you feel like the paper is working for you rather than against you.
Thank you! I was impressed by how forgiving it seemed to be with blending and rewetting etc. Just that initial roughness and thirstiness to get used to! It feels like I'd need hot pressed paper to do delicate work maybe, but I need to spend a lot more time with it - that's probably just my lack of skill at the moment.
The watercolor sketchbook that I'm currently using has a texture that looks like tiny little BRICKS!! Once you see it, you can't unsee it. It's ok with some watercolors, but the pattern really shows up with granulating watercolors. I'm glad you showed the Etcher sketchbook. I might try that one out. Thank you!
Helen, I just happened upon one of your videos today for the first time. And I must tell you, I was so envious as you unpacked your yummy supplies for to upcoming trip. I found myself quite enjoying your refreshing demeanor. I hope that you have a wonderful time on your trip and that you enjoy trying out all of your new toys. I would love to be one of your new subscribers and look forward to joining you in your watercolor journey as well as improving my own along the way. 😊
Thank you so much!!! I'm still in Nepal at the moment, and it's been quite a trip! I didn't get as much painting done as I hoped, but have plenty of photos for inspiration when I'm back!
Congrats on reaching your first 1000 subscribers 🥳love your videos and artwork. I remember I had a similar experience when I first tried arches, it is a very thirsty paper but you get used to it quickly, it does mean loading your brush more and it will probably work best with your natural hair silver brushes as they hold the most water, at least for the first couple of glazes. Colours blend beautifully on arches and dry brushing looks great. Escoda brushes are my favourite, always so well made and also aesthetically pleasing
My Finetec set of metallics recommends on the lid leaving water on the paints for 3 minutes before using them. This does give much better coverage than going straight in. I love using these sparkly paints!
Brand new here, I have really enjoyed your haul and hope your preparing and set up will be perfect for your art adventures... I also really love the Silver brushes, and Princeton Neptune line. I have not tried the Aqua elite, but they look lovely. You are going to love the cotton paper, it really is amazing the depth and richness of your colors are going to shine! I really liked the brief flip through of your paintings, from what I can see your art is beautiful.
Hi! Thank you so much! I've still not made the time to play with the cotton paper yet, but am looking forward to it! I haven't tried the Neptune line, but my curiosity is growing - oh dear!!
@@helencryer Just a quick note on any curiosity of brushes. The Neptune line is nice, I think I like the round mop brush the best for washes But Not essential because that nice wide flat you have looks lovely. If I had tried the elite first, they could have been my favorite. Lol! It looks like you have a great variety, so I am looking forward to hear what you think of the cotton paper, it literally is art changing. (not that you need that!)
I too was supposed to stop buying art supplies until April but I already gave in 😅 the sketchbook selection look very fun 😊 I love etcher sketchbooks and I hope you enjoy it as well alongside your new supplies 👏🏼 and congratulations on the subs 💖💖
@@helencryer I prepared some items on my wish list to order when April comes, but a palette that I Really wanted went from 3 palettes left to only one left in less than a week, so naturally I had to order it before it was sold out, of course with some paint 😅 it's kind of frustrating that I couldn't keep up with my goal, but on another note I have another huge order coming soon so I can't complain 🌺😂
Hi Jackie, thanks so much! I actually made a video on how I filled it, because this video was from a while ago. I'll go and try to find the link for it...
Lovely haul!! You’re so lucky to have a birthday a few months into the year (even if you ordered early). I could not really turn my birthday into an exception for my low-buy year as it’s 12 days after Christmas 😂. I think prepping for a trip and doing up a travel kit by buying things you need is a good reason to order anyway. Looks like you found a lot of fantastic brushes!! For brushes, my favourites are firmer brushes like the Princeton Heritage or Velvetouch, or the Escoda Prado. I seem to have difficulty getting softer brushes to do what I want them to do. I have some Princeton Aqua Elite and I do like them as well. I haven’t tried a lot of others that seem to be popular and just stick with the ones I know I like. I ❤ Arches and Etchr. They are my go-to paper and sketchbook. I switched from cellulose to cotton very early in my painting journey, so I don’t remember there being much learning curve; I started using the cotton paper while I was still a beginner (and the entire process was a learning curve lol). I had difficulty with cellulose drying too quickly and I couldn’t do wet-in-wet very easily on big backgrounds (I’d get too many hard edges or cauliflowers) and someone recommended I switch to cotton. After trying it, there was no turning back, I just found it SO much easier. I still use my cellulose papers for swatching or practice sheets though. Looking forward to seeing your travel kit! I’ve just done up a VERY minimal kit for a trip in May. I’ll only have a very small amount of room in my carry-on, so I’m sticking with an A6 Etchr sketchbook and *very* minimal supplies to go with it (everything but the sketchbook must fit in a *tiny* pencil case).
I'm glad you think it's OK to break my no-spend!! December birthdays are slightly tricky, yes! All my three boys have December birthdays 😬 I'm glad I'm heading in the right direction with paper! The cotton is definitely going to be an adjustment... The Arches felt so rough, and like I couldn't do smooth little detail. The initial laydown was so different. I'm sure I'll get used to it though, and I might try some Hot pressed cotton too. I can see how amazingly forgiving it is though, and how multi-layer painting will be totally different. I'm still pretty new to painting really. I definitely want to try some of the other Escoda brushes in larger sizes at some point too. What kind of things do you like to paint?
@@helencryer Haha… I’m not one to criticize *anyone* for a lapse in their no/low-spend; it’s so hard when there are so many beautiful art supplies! I’m sure you’ll get used to Arches in no time. It makes certain techniques so much easier (at least based on what I attempt to do lol). I usually paint landscapes or buildings and flip-flop between loose or more realistic, depending on my mood.
Actually, it is better to store your paintbrushes laterally so that water doesn’t stay in the ferrules, weakening the glue for the bristles… but I love that you have indulged yourself with special gifts for your birthday - Happy Birthday!!
I've found the art creations sketchbooks can hold quiet a bit of water without bleeding through. At least with graphitint/inktense pencils and ecoline markers etc. Just not too much at a time is the trick. But no, it's not watercolour paper 😊
I think I tend to use lots of water when I watercolour - I had another go at some watercolour sketches tonight, and tried to be a bit more restrained, and it worked better - I didn't get colour coming through.
What an interesting haul! I’ve just found your channel, so I don’t know if you have posted any more thoughts on the cotton paper. Here is my experience: First of all, I have heard that you can develop “bad habits” if you learn on wood pulp paper because the paint behaves different on it than it does on cotton paper. But obviously wood pulp paper is generally much less expensive and more widely available, so most people will learn on it. I do find that Arches paper in particular results in colors which are often more vibrant than they are on a lot of wood pulp papers. The paint is also easier to control on it. That said, I am a huge fan of Canson XL watercolor paper and use it all the time. I find the colors look vibrant on it, but one of its “strengths,” to me, is a weakness for a lot of people - it IS less thirsty, and paint moves very easily on it. But, many colors will lift off completely very easily, which can be annoying. I love it for loose watercolor painting when “happy accidents” are welcome. Additionally, as I am sure you know, sizing makes a big difference. I’ve had wood pulp paper which resists paint so much that it is very difficult to paint, and cotton paper which is almost as absorbent as a paper towel. You have to experiment and find the right one for you. I enjoy painting watercolor and gouache sketches on Strathmore 500 series Mixed Media paper, which is 100% cotton and the same paper as in their Mixed Media visual journals. It is not such a thirsty paper (but also lighter-weight.) I also wanted to add that I just recently purchased quite a few of those Faber Castell Albrecht Durer markers, and was very disappointed in how many of them washed out. I keep thinking maybe I haven’t developed just the right touch/water control, but there are a few colors of that marker line which seem extremely highly pigmented. But at this point because so many sort of disappear when water is added, I am unsure of whether I have any use for them.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts and experiences! I've been on a bit of a plein air painting/sketching just in my Seawhites cellulose sketchbook lately, so haven't played a whole lot with the 100% cotton. I definitely agree about the Canson XL - I still prefer it for Supergranulating watercolours, as it brings out their granulation and texture the best in my opinion. I haven't tried the Strathmore, but have been enjoying Baohong 100% cotton, which I'm quite new to. It seems from my limited experience to be a happy medium in the world of 100% cotton. I only have 5 of the Albrecht Durer markers, so don't have many to compare, but I've found the paper I use makes a huge amount of difference to their behaviour.
Mine aren't actual brush tips, but I have used the Zig Clean Colour markers before and didn't get on as well with them - I think they took more skill to use.
Such a lovely haul! I loved to listen to all of your considerations and evaluations. The Arches paper is definitey thirsty, I've made that experience myself. It's also a bit too structured for my taste. I personally prefer the Hahnemühle Watercolor Collection paper, which is a lot smoother and less thirsty (and comparable prizewise - at least in Germany). The best brushes to use on Arches paper (on any good watercolor paper actually) for me are genuine sable brushes. I know that a lot of people don't want to use natural hair brushes and I wouldn't want to talk anyone into it but if you ever get the chance to test one do it. You won't feel the difference on cheap paper (in fact cheap synthetic brushes even might be the better option for that) but on high quality watercolor paper (even on good pulp paper) they work like a charm.
Really glad to hear your thoughts on the Arches. I will have to try the Hahnemühle next. Have you tried the Princeton Aque Elite brushes as all, which are supposed to imitate sable?
@@helencryer No, I haven't tried the Aqua Elite. I'd like to but they are a bit difficult to get hold of in Germany (and if they're available I find them too expensive). But I tried the Da Vinci Colineo which are also supposed to imitate sable. And although they are nice brushes, they come in no way near a genuine sable brush (I'm now using them for gouache for which they are perfect). Da Vincis Casaneo line is a squirrel hair imitation. Their water capacity is amazing. For me they are the closest match to sable hair brushes I've yet found (even though they imitate squirrel), but they are slightly softer and don't have the wonderful sharp point of a sable brush.
I do like using the Silver Black Velvet Squirrel (though I'm going to try not to buy more real animal hair brushes), and the synthetic squirrel Escoda Ultimo brushes, as they're both great at holding water. I'll just have to see if they've got enough snap for the Arches. I haven't had a good play with it yet!
@@helencryer Have a good play then. ☺ I once tried Silver Black Velvet brushes but found them too soft (the Casaneo definitely have more snap), but I've never painted with an Escoda Ultimo. I'd love to hear your thoughts on them once you've tested them out well enough.
@@sonja__k The Silver Black Velvet took me a bit of time to get used to, but I do love them now. I'm finding the Ultimo very soft, and even harder to control than the Black Velvets. I'm just working out a format to try and present a comparison of the paintbrushes at the moment. I think it's hard to get a clear impression on screen for brushes.
You got the bloom on the Canson paper because you let it dry and then added more paint. As far as the cotton paper, Let it dry or charge in when it is wet.. have fun..
@@awatercolourist Well, not very often shining - I was notoriously mucky! I'm a Coastguard now, so will only rescue you if you've got yourself stuck on a cliff nowadays 🤣
And theres not a princeton line i dont own and theyre all fantastic. If u love the black velvet youll enjoy the princeton neptune series the most. But the aqua elite and the heritage 4050 are my favorites
I wish I can have same brushes. 🤩 I have №6 aqua elite it is just too small for me, but really nice. I can't judge brushes by the description in online stores. I wish I could go to the store and see them in real life, the selection we have is very limited. The escoda prices are really nice on Jackson's, I wouldn't hesitate to buy them if I live in Europe. And the set of Escoda brushes is so cool but not available in US. It figures.
I agree - I think brushes are really hard to get right - lots of trial and error. I watched loads of videos on these brushes I opened today - gradually building up a picture from what numerous people think. Can you not get Jackson's delivered to where you are? I'd thought they mailed worldwide?
Julia, Jacksons ships worldwide. Do not be irritated by the prices, try to put them in your shopping basket and proceed to checkout. Then you add your address. The system will recognize that you are in the US and it will deduct taxes!!! Then you see the real price you have to pay. I bought something for a friend of mine in the US once, I myself are in Germany, that is how I found out that prices are lower when the items ship out to the US. I hope you will be nicely surprised!
Lovely colors, I hope you will enjoy your new stuff while travelling! I have recently fallen in love with travel brushes, because it is SO much easier to take them with you. I just wish everybody would stop supporting animal cruelty and buy synthetic brushes exclusively. I just cannot wrap my head around it. Don't we all love squirrels? Such beautiful, intelligent and elegant animals, but then again, brushes are made from their fur, even if it is partially, they still get abused for that. Please don' take this comment as hate, it is not intended as that at all, I just wish everybody would be more conscious of it and live animal kindness through and through. Lots of love to all of you and thank you Helen for your inspiring art videos!
@@helencryer Thank you Helen! That really makes me very happy! Together we can make this world a better place, when we all take tiny steps and practice kindness to all that lives 🙂
@@helencryer 😂😂😂😂😂 classic! Just bought another 120 pastels..... There are another 15 in my cart. I have 4 full sets plus 5 full sets of pastel pencils.... Still, I don't seem to think I have enough "reds". I... I need help😅😅. Hello, my name is Autumn, and I am an addict. ‼️
Oooo.... pastels... barely got started on those yet!! The 'reds'....😂 So. Relatable. I had to turn to RUclips to find all you wonderful like-minded people!!
Dear Helen, I so enjoyed the calm and mellow style with which you present & describe your purchases. Many many other MC's use the format to explode with squeaky loud high monologs, rabbiting on until the interest level you could well be having in the items is sadly overwhelmed by their pitch and speed. Your langorous enjoyment in your products and plans to use them made my day! Thank you. Thank goodness!!
That's really very kind of you, thank you!
I agree!!!😌🎨🖌👩🏻🎨
Thank you so much for reading your comments! You cannot imagine how delightful it is to find a response from you ‐ it strongly adds to the sense of community and connectivity. Onwards!
@@helencryer Thank you again!
Thank you! One of my favourite things about starting RUclips has been interacting with people who share a love art materials and practicing art too!
Nice haul! Tip: If you use a brush for Metallics make sure you mark it and keep separate from your other watercolour brushes as no matter how much you wash or how well, it will continue to let out tiny bits of mica. You should also use totality separate water containers for the same reason.
Oh yes that is very true! I ruined one of my favorite brushes by making that mistake.
Thank you! That sounds very sensible!!
Thanks for this comment, I had no idea about that. Very interesting
Yes - so true. I learned the hard way... I call the mica particles 'microscopic Angels' - they can go everywhere and they sparkle...
I love that you focus this video on the products themselves and how the different brushes compare with the same paint and paper. Gives us a better idea of what to expect if we decide to purchase these products ourselves. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Thanks ever so much for your feedback!
man, the editing in this one is magic!!! such a great work, pleasure to watch
I'm definitely assuming you're joking for this one!!! I couldn't remember the video, so starting watching, and it's all over the place 🤣
I could watch you all day long. I'm learning lots from you too. Thank you for sharing what you love. ❤️
You're so funny! Thank you!!
Discovered your channel today and subscribed. Your videos have a certain ASMR-Quality to them. As a beginner I not only learn a lot, I also feel my 'resident' anxiety go below threshold. Especially the real quiet parts where you are focused on what you are doing are a balm for my nerves! Thank you :-)
Thanks so much - I'm really happy to read this ❤️
Really enjoyed the whole video Helen, it's so nice to listen to a well-modulated gentle voice and watching swatches which gradually fill a page and become an artwork in themselves
That's really nice of you - thank you!!
Thanks for this wonderful video. I love when others do the shopping, learned a lot! Thanks, Karen Dirmish, learnet
I'm glad it was useful! Thank you!
❤😊 I see new 😍🖌️🖌️🖌️ in my future! Have a wonderful trip! Fran
😂 Thanks ever so much!
Thanks for the vlog, haul and swatching. I just bought a Princeton brush which really impressed me. A Long Round, size 12. It holds more liquid because it's longer, is really flexible and has a fantastic fine point. Thanks again, Jo in France 🇫🇷
That's great! Which kind of Princeton was it?
Watching this video is cool because I just finished watching the video on your trip to Nepal …..so I’m excited for you! I’m such a kid🤣
Ahaha! Thanks so much for watching!
I hope you like your new Princeton brushes. I love mine ♥️ very nice video
One year on - I absolutely love them!! Thanks!
I've got serious art haul envy!😂 What a lovely load of loot. I hope you're enjoying it all. I'm all for the 100% cotton paper. You can't go back 😂
I'm thoroughly loving it, thanks! The new brushes have become my go-tos, and I'm loving the 100% cotton!
Now I'll have to go and buy some of those brushes....
😁
how fun.. can't resist an art haul..!!
Haha - me neither!!
I’m excited for you to discover cotton paper. It’s a game-changer! Those thirsty Aqua Elite brushes in your haul will behave differently on the Arches. You might find you’re dealing with too much water. (At least that was my experience.). I enjoyed this video and listened to you discuss your haul as I painted here at home. Very relaxing, almost as if I were painting and talking with a friend next to me. Not all videos need to be dramatic, right?
Thank you! I'm finding I really love it, but still hesitate to use it a bit, because I feel I need to save it for 'best'!
Not much drama here! I'm really glad some people find that suits them!
This was throughly enjoyable.
That makes me happy, thanks!
Happy to be a subscriber. Really like the mix of art and supplies. I think the best thing about arches and cotton paper in general, is that you feel like the paper is working for you rather than against you.
Thank you! I was impressed by how forgiving it seemed to be with blending and rewetting etc. Just that initial roughness and thirstiness to get used to! It feels like I'd need hot pressed paper to do delicate work maybe, but I need to spend a lot more time with it - that's probably just my lack of skill at the moment.
The watercolor sketchbook that I'm currently using has a texture that looks like tiny little BRICKS!! Once you see it, you can't unsee it. It's ok with some watercolors, but the pattern really shows up with granulating watercolors. I'm glad you showed the Etcher sketchbook. I might try that one out. Thank you!
I don't know why, but that made me laugh a lot - your bricks pad!!! I still daren't use it much, but the Etched pad really is lovely!
Always happy to view your content.
Please do a video on the things you pack for your trip and how you will use them 🙂
Thank you! Yes I will!
Helen, I just happened upon one of your videos today for the first time. And I must tell you, I was so envious as you unpacked your yummy supplies for to upcoming trip.
I found myself quite enjoying your refreshing demeanor. I hope that you have a wonderful time on your trip and that you enjoy trying out all of your new toys.
I would love to be one of your new subscribers and look forward to joining you in your watercolor journey as well as improving my own along the way. 😊
Thank you so much!!! I'm still in Nepal at the moment, and it's been quite a trip! I didn't get as much painting done as I hoped, but have plenty of photos for inspiration when I'm back!
I definitely would love to watch a video on how to do a print using a gel plate and poscas! Please do that!
OK! I'm not an expert, but it's a huge amount of fun!
@@helencryer well I don't even know where to start, so any help is great! 😄
Congrats on reaching your first 1000 subscribers 🥳love your videos and artwork. I remember I had a similar experience when I first tried arches, it is a very thirsty paper but you get used to it quickly, it does mean loading your brush more and it will probably work best with your natural hair silver brushes as they hold the most water, at least for the first couple of glazes. Colours blend beautifully on arches and dry brushing looks great. Escoda brushes are my favourite, always so well made and also aesthetically pleasing
Thanks so much! It's good to hear I'm roughly on the right track with materials and things!
My Finetec set of metallics recommends on the lid leaving water on the paints for 3 minutes before using them. This does give much better coverage than going straight in. I love using these sparkly paints!
Ah, that's good to know, thank you! I didn't have instructions with my individual ones!
I love your voice, is so soothing. I just discovered your channel. I’m a fellow artist 👩🏼🎨
Thank you so much!! ❤️
Props to you for being a firefighter! I'm retired law enforcement out of Las Vegas, NV.
That's cool! I left the fire service when I moved across the country a few years ago, but now I'm a Coastguard.
@@helencryer wow! Well, good on ya! Stay safe out there. I'm enjoying your channel.
Thanks so much!!
1k! Congrats 🎉
Brand new here, I have really enjoyed your haul and hope your preparing and set up will be perfect for your art adventures... I also really love the Silver brushes, and Princeton Neptune line. I have not tried the Aqua elite, but they look lovely. You are going to love the cotton paper, it really is amazing the depth and richness of your colors are going to shine! I really liked the brief flip through of your paintings, from what I can see your art is beautiful.
Hi! Thank you so much! I've still not made the time to play with the cotton paper yet, but am looking forward to it! I haven't tried the Neptune line, but my curiosity is growing - oh dear!!
@@helencryer Just a quick note on any curiosity of brushes. The Neptune line is nice, I think I like the round mop brush the best for washes But Not essential because that nice wide flat you have looks lovely. If I had tried the elite first, they could have been my favorite. Lol! It looks like you have a great variety, so I am looking forward to hear what you think of the cotton paper, it literally is art changing. (not that you need that!)
OK, that's good to know - thank you!!
I too was supposed to stop buying art supplies until April but I already gave in 😅 the sketchbook selection look very fun 😊 I love etcher sketchbooks and I hope you enjoy it as well alongside your new supplies 👏🏼 and congratulations on the subs 💖💖
Hi! Thank you! Haha - so what did you break your no spend for?!?
@@helencryer I prepared some items on my wish list to order when April comes, but a palette that I Really wanted went from 3 palettes left to only one left in less than a week, so naturally I had to order it before it was sold out, of course with some paint 😅 it's kind of frustrating that I couldn't keep up with my goal, but on another note I have another huge order coming soon so I can't complain 🌺😂
Well of course, you had to in that case! ENJOY!!!
@@helencryer thank youu 💖💖
Ah I just received the same carry holder and I am looking forward to see how you will fill it. Hope that happens soon. I am newly subscribed. Jackie
Hi Jackie, thanks so much! I actually made a video on how I filled it, because this video was from a while ago. I'll go and try to find the link for it...
ruclips.net/video/suSbtgRGNDk/видео.html
Lovely haul!! You’re so lucky to have a birthday a few months into the year (even if you ordered early). I could not really turn my birthday into an exception for my low-buy year as it’s 12 days after Christmas 😂. I think prepping for a trip and doing up a travel kit by buying things you need is a good reason to order anyway.
Looks like you found a lot of fantastic brushes!! For brushes, my favourites are firmer brushes like the Princeton Heritage or Velvetouch, or the Escoda Prado. I seem to have difficulty getting softer brushes to do what I want them to do. I have some Princeton Aqua Elite and I do like them as well. I haven’t tried a lot of others that seem to be popular and just stick with the ones I know I like.
I ❤ Arches and Etchr. They are my go-to paper and sketchbook. I switched from cellulose to cotton very early in my painting journey, so I don’t remember there being much learning curve; I started using the cotton paper while I was still a beginner (and the entire process was a learning curve lol). I had difficulty with cellulose drying too quickly and I couldn’t do wet-in-wet very easily on big backgrounds (I’d get too many hard edges or cauliflowers) and someone recommended I switch to cotton. After trying it, there was no turning back, I just found it SO much easier. I still use my cellulose papers for swatching or practice sheets though.
Looking forward to seeing your travel kit! I’ve just done up a VERY minimal kit for a trip in May. I’ll only have a very small amount of room in my carry-on, so I’m sticking with an A6 Etchr sketchbook and *very* minimal supplies to go with it (everything but the sketchbook must fit in a *tiny* pencil case).
I'm glad you think it's OK to break my no-spend!! December birthdays are slightly tricky, yes! All my three boys have December birthdays 😬
I'm glad I'm heading in the right direction with paper! The cotton is definitely going to be an adjustment... The Arches felt so rough, and like I couldn't do smooth little detail. The initial laydown was so different. I'm sure I'll get used to it though, and I might try some Hot pressed cotton too. I can see how amazingly forgiving it is though, and how multi-layer painting will be totally different. I'm still pretty new to painting really.
I definitely want to try some of the other Escoda brushes in larger sizes at some point too.
What kind of things do you like to paint?
@@helencryer Haha… I’m not one to criticize *anyone* for a lapse in their no/low-spend; it’s so hard when there are so many beautiful art supplies! I’m sure you’ll get used to Arches in no time. It makes certain techniques so much easier (at least based on what I attempt to do lol). I usually paint landscapes or buildings and flip-flop between loose or more realistic, depending on my mood.
Actually, it is better to store your paintbrushes laterally so that water doesn’t stay in the ferrules, weakening the glue for the bristles… but I love that you have indulged yourself with special gifts for your birthday - Happy Birthday!!
Thank you, yes, I've decided to start drying my brushes tip down, then put them away in the pot.
I've found the art creations sketchbooks can hold quiet a bit of water without bleeding through. At least with graphitint/inktense pencils and ecoline markers etc. Just not too much at a time is the trick. But no, it's not watercolour paper 😊
I think I tend to use lots of water when I watercolour - I had another go at some watercolour sketches tonight, and tried to be a bit more restrained, and it worked better - I didn't get colour coming through.
What an interesting haul! I’ve just found your channel, so I don’t know if you have posted any more thoughts on the cotton paper. Here is my experience: First of all, I have heard that you can develop “bad habits” if you learn on wood pulp paper because the paint behaves different on it than it does on cotton paper. But obviously wood pulp paper is generally much less expensive and more widely available, so most people will learn on it. I do find that Arches paper in particular results in colors which are often more vibrant than they are on a lot of wood pulp papers. The paint is also easier to control on it. That said, I am a huge fan of Canson XL watercolor paper and use it all the time. I find the colors look vibrant on it, but one of its “strengths,” to me, is a weakness for a lot of people - it IS less thirsty, and paint moves very easily on it. But, many colors will lift off completely very easily, which can be annoying. I love it for loose watercolor painting when “happy accidents” are welcome. Additionally, as I am sure you know, sizing makes a big difference. I’ve had wood pulp paper which resists paint so much that it is very difficult to paint, and cotton paper which is almost as absorbent as a paper towel. You have to experiment and find the right one for you. I enjoy painting watercolor and gouache sketches on Strathmore 500 series Mixed Media paper, which is 100% cotton and the same paper as in their Mixed Media visual journals. It is not such a thirsty paper (but also lighter-weight.) I also wanted to add that I just recently purchased quite a few of those Faber Castell Albrecht Durer markers, and was very disappointed in how many of them washed out. I keep thinking maybe I haven’t developed just the right touch/water control, but there are a few colors of that marker line which seem extremely highly pigmented. But at this point because so many sort of disappear when water is added, I am unsure of whether I have any use for them.
One more thing - if you haven’t done so already, you may want to try out the Arches hot press paper.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts and experiences!
I've been on a bit of a plein air painting/sketching just in my Seawhites cellulose sketchbook lately, so haven't played a whole lot with the 100% cotton. I definitely agree about the Canson XL - I still prefer it for Supergranulating watercolours, as it brings out their granulation and texture the best in my opinion. I haven't tried the Strathmore, but have been enjoying Baohong 100% cotton, which I'm quite new to. It seems from my limited experience to be a happy medium in the world of 100% cotton.
I only have 5 of the Albrecht Durer markers, so don't have many to compare, but I've found the paper I use makes a huge amount of difference to their behaviour.
Oh, and I have some Arches Hot Press now, though I actually bought it for pencil drawing!
Oh Oh, cotton watercolour paper. Once used there's no going back 😂🤣😂
Hehe! Thanks for the warning!!
I’ve been using the Zig Clean Color watercolor markers, the ones you have seem better. The Zig have a brush tip .
Mine aren't actual brush tips, but I have used the Zig Clean Colour markers before and didn't get on as well with them - I think they took more skill to use.
Such a lovely haul! I loved to listen to all of your considerations and evaluations. The Arches paper is definitey thirsty, I've made that experience myself. It's also a bit too structured for my taste. I personally prefer the Hahnemühle Watercolor Collection paper, which is a lot smoother and less thirsty (and comparable prizewise - at least in Germany). The best brushes to use on Arches paper (on any good watercolor paper actually) for me are genuine sable brushes. I know that a lot of people don't want to use natural hair brushes and I wouldn't want to talk anyone into it but if you ever get the chance to test one do it. You won't feel the difference on cheap paper (in fact cheap synthetic brushes even might be the better option for that) but on high quality watercolor paper (even on good pulp paper) they work like a charm.
Really glad to hear your thoughts on the Arches. I will have to try the Hahnemühle next. Have you tried the Princeton Aque Elite brushes as all, which are supposed to imitate sable?
@@helencryer No, I haven't tried the Aqua Elite. I'd like to but they are a bit difficult to get hold of in Germany (and if they're available I find them too expensive). But I tried the Da Vinci Colineo which are also supposed to imitate sable. And although they are nice brushes, they come in no way near a genuine sable brush (I'm now using them for gouache for which they are perfect). Da Vincis Casaneo line is a squirrel hair imitation. Their water capacity is amazing. For me they are the closest match to sable hair brushes I've yet found (even though they imitate squirrel), but they are slightly softer and don't have the wonderful sharp point of a sable brush.
I do like using the Silver Black Velvet Squirrel (though I'm going to try not to buy more real animal hair brushes), and the synthetic squirrel Escoda Ultimo brushes, as they're both great at holding water. I'll just have to see if they've got enough snap for the Arches. I haven't had a good play with it yet!
@@helencryer Have a good play then. ☺ I once tried Silver Black Velvet brushes but found them too soft (the Casaneo definitely have more snap), but I've never painted with an Escoda Ultimo. I'd love to hear your thoughts on them once you've tested them out well enough.
@@sonja__k The Silver Black Velvet took me a bit of time to get used to, but I do love them now. I'm finding the Ultimo very soft, and even harder to control than the Black Velvets. I'm just working out a format to try and present a comparison of the paintbrushes at the moment. I think it's hard to get a clear impression on screen for brushes.
You got the bloom on the Canson paper because you let it dry and then added more paint. As far as the cotton paper, Let it dry or charge in when it is wet.. have fun..
Thank you!!
Finetec has an excellent colorfastness. I haven’t found any mica watercolors that have better lightfastness.
That's great to hear, thank you!
Oh coooool! You were a firefighter!
Haha, yep, till about 4 years ago!
@@helencryer That’s pretty cool! So that makes you the knight in shining armour and us men the damsel in distress 🤣
@@awatercolourist Well, not very often shining - I was notoriously mucky!
I'm a Coastguard now, so will only rescue you if you've got yourself stuck on a cliff nowadays 🤣
@@helencryer 🤣🤣. Well, did you at least collect some of the soot to make black paint out of it? 😂😂
I should add that I do apologise if the above comment is insensitive.
What brand is the pencil pouch with removable ‘pages’?
It's just a generic no-brand bag from Amazon. The link is in the description.
The only escoda that i didnt love was the versatail. But the rest of theyre sythetics are great. Especially the perla
I've mainly used my Ultimo for super soft washes, and Perla for details, and have enjoyed them both.
thank you too.
Thanks!
Neocolor 2 I understand. What do you use neocolor 1 for?
I haven't done much yet, but I bought them to do resist work, like in this video with the white flowers. ruclips.net/video/YlzRXPb0ZdI/видео.html
I'm sorry if you said this and I missed it but what color did you use to test the brushes? It's gorgeous
Oh sorry - I don't think I did! It's Roman Szmal's Hooker's Green
@@helencryer it's a lovely color. Thanks for letting me know
And theres not a princeton line i dont own and theyre all fantastic. If u love the black velvet youll enjoy the princeton neptune series the most. But the aqua elite and the heritage 4050 are my favorites
I'm getting on brilliantly with the Aqua Elite, and one Neptune that I own. Haven't tried the Heritage yet!
I wish I can have same brushes. 🤩 I have №6 aqua elite it is just too small for me, but really nice. I can't judge brushes by the description in online stores. I wish I could go to the store and see them in real life, the selection we have is very limited. The escoda prices are really nice on Jackson's, I wouldn't hesitate to buy them if I live in Europe. And the set of Escoda brushes is so cool but not available in US. It figures.
I agree - I think brushes are really hard to get right - lots of trial and error. I watched loads of videos on these brushes I opened today - gradually building up a picture from what numerous people think.
Can you not get Jackson's delivered to where you are? I'd thought they mailed worldwide?
Julia, Jacksons ships worldwide. Do not be irritated by the prices, try to put them in your shopping basket and proceed to checkout. Then you add your address. The system will recognize that you are in the US and it will deduct taxes!!! Then you see the real price you have to pay. I bought something for a friend of mine in the US once, I myself are in Germany, that is how I found out that prices are lower when the items ship out to the US. I hope you will be nicely surprised!
That's really useful, thanks!
Woohoo! First! 😂
Lucky you
Lovely colors, I hope you will enjoy your new stuff while travelling! I have recently fallen in love with travel brushes, because it is SO much easier to take them with you. I just wish everybody would stop supporting animal cruelty and buy synthetic brushes exclusively. I just cannot wrap my head around it. Don't we all love squirrels? Such beautiful, intelligent and elegant animals, but then again, brushes are made from their fur, even if it is partially, they still get abused for that. Please don' take this comment as hate, it is not intended as that at all, I just wish everybody would be more conscious of it and live animal kindness through and through. Lots of love to all of you and thank you Helen for your inspiring art videos!
I genuinely appreciate the considerate way you expressed your opinion, and can say honestly that I will bear it in mind next time I buy brushes xx
@@helencryer Thank you Helen! That really makes me very happy! Together we can make this world a better place, when we all take tiny steps and practice kindness to all that lives 🙂
We all lie about getting more art supplies 😂
😬😬😬 Truth. Two and half months wasn't bad though!!
I just informed my husband this morning that he's bought me (another) new travel kit for our wedding anniversary this week, but that doesn't count!
@@helencryer 😂😂😂😂😂 classic! Just bought another 120 pastels..... There are another 15 in my cart. I have 4 full sets plus 5 full sets of pastel pencils.... Still, I don't seem to think I have enough "reds". I... I need help😅😅. Hello, my name is Autumn, and I am an addict. ‼️
Oooo.... pastels... barely got started on those yet!! The 'reds'....😂 So. Relatable.
I had to turn to RUclips to find all you wonderful like-minded people!!
@@helencryer they are so so so fun. If you have any questions let me know! Fair warning though.. they are ridiculously addicting! 🤣