mixing paints

[absolutrudy]

Just wondering how often everyone out there mixes their paints when trying to layer or blend? When applying these techniques I have a series of colors laid out on my pallet, but as I work with one, another \"goops\" up, and its always the lighter colors. Just wondering if there\'s anyway to prevent the pigment from separating or do I just mix alot faster.

And also, when layering with various colors, do any of you use a different brush per color or just dip it in the next one as you go?

Thanks.

 

[supervike]

hiya

I\'ve been using something called Microtiter plates.

They are a multi-welled plastic trays that are used in scientfic applications.

I believe NSA wrote an article about them...

Anyhow, Herb the bitter kindly gave me some of the trays and I have found they do help, especially with the \'consistancy\' and the \'gooping\' problems.

Here is a link to NSA\'s article....

http://www.coolminiornot.com/article/aid/337

 

[airhead]

Couple of ways around it.

1. use a wet pallet. Several articles can be found on it here and elsewhere.

2. don\'t mix the paints until you are ready to apply.

I use method 2. Limited painting time and a ceramic tile for a pallet. Paints dry out pretty quick on it.

3 paints, 5 layer:
I line up my paints that I am going to use.
Drop of first color and drop of goop. Mix. Paint.
Drop of second color and drop of first color. 3 drops of goop. Mix. Paint.
Drop of second color & 2 drops of goop.
Drop of second color and drop of highlight. 4-5 drops of goop.
Drop of final highlight. 3 drops of goop.

Goop can be wonder wash or glaze media or plain water or whatever your blending/thinning agent is.

Often, I am doing this while teaching a painting class so I only get time for a layer or two of my own. But with this method, you can come back later and add more layers.