Preparation Absorbent or semi-absorbent surfaces require no special prep before brushing on DANIEL SMITH Watercolour Ground. These include paper, canvas and other fabrics, wood, plaster, shells and hardboard. Non-absorbent surfaces such as metal, plastic or glass should be lightly abraded with sandpaper or steel wool before brushing on the Watercolour Ground.
Application
We recommend using Watercolour Ground straight from the container. It has a thick, brushable consistency. Use a soft-haired synthetic brush for a smooth finish or a hog bristle brush for a more textured finish. Since the ground is pigmented with Titanium White pigment, one coat will cover most surfaces; very absorbent surfaces such as unfinished soft wood may require two coats, allowing the first coat to cure before adding the second. Wash brushes immediately after use.
Curing
Let Watercolour Ground dry and cure for at least 24 hours. This allows it to attain the right degree of absorption.
Painting
DANIEL SMITH Watercolour Ground works beautifully with watercolours and thinned acrylics. Because it creates a surface more absorbent than paper, you will want to use less water with your paint. Experiment and see what works best for you. It also works beautifully with DANIEL SMITH Masking Fluid.
Finishing
As with all watercolors, your work on DANIEL SMITH Watercolour Ground will need to be fixed if it will not be framed behind glass. GOLDEN Archival Aerosol MSA Varnish with UVLS is an excellent spray varnish that will protect your work on any surface. Use it at room temperature in a well-ventilated area.
