This post presents the results of a discussion, rather than a demonstration – some ideas to play with. Up for discussion – different techniques used to produce texture. Here’s what was suggested:
- Application of salt for textures like snow, foliage. The paper and the wetness make a difference – HP paper gives better results.
- Granulating pigments for bark, water and cloth textures
- Layering of colour to imply shading of wood and tree trunks – a warm shade beneath on the underside of branches gives a feeling of richness
- Dry brush
- Wax resist and gladwrap
- Airbrush can be used for smooth surfaces – use gloss, and hard edges to create highlights, and three tones – white, mid and dark.
- Ricepaper has stronger fibres and gives a different texture, as does tissue paper, Kardi paper, Yupo and reed paper.
- A palette knife can be used to scrape paint off the paper to give texture to rocks and tree trunks; similar effects can be achieved using a pocket knife, the edge of a credit card, and sandpaper.
- Sponging paint onto paper is a useful technique for “loose” backgrounds such as foliage.
- A stencil and stipple brush are useful for stippled textures.
- Ink or paint dribbled over gesso gives interesting textures – white coloured ink is very opaque and gives interesting effects.
To achieve the textures of:
- Rocks, use layers, dry brush, and fingers
- Foliage – experiment! use a rigger brush, or layer using the tip of the brush, or use a long handled brush to give a feathery effect
- Clouds – use tissues and brushes on HP paper to produce wispy clouds; drop water into a wash.
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