Tonya L

The reds are gorgeous – strong and soft at the same time. I’ve really fallen in love with Cad Lemon yellow also. Nothing seems to beat it for adding in a back layer of sunlight or field flowers. Let me know if you pull them out again. 🙂

No problem, Kate! WN paints are very luminous and soft. I can see why some painters love them, but yes, I prefer bolder choices.

I’ve not tried super small paint makers. I kind of consider them “boutique” watercolor paints. Looks lovely in a store window but very exclusive and extremely high priced. And yes, I have no idea what’s in that stuff!…[Read more]

I think that even if DS continues to work great for you, you may really take to Da Vinci. The cost was a huge factor for me – DV is so value oriented! But I also like how they are very eco minded and are a small, independently owned business. I like supporting local, even if it’s not MY local. ha! 🙂 Regardless of all of that stuff, they make…[Read more]

Hi, Rachel. I can answer your question about Da Vinci. All of their watercolors are artist quality. Could you be thinking about Van Gogh? Two artist inspired brands! 🙂 I’m very familiar with Da Vinci and use them almost exclusively, so I can vouch for the high quality. I’ve not tried Van Gogh but heard they are good for a student grade. Hope this helps!

We’re in a rental house right now, and I doubt the water has ever been tested… BUT yes, as soon as our house is nearer to completion, we’ll be getting our well water tested. That has to be completed to pass inspection and get our occupancy certificate. A friend dumps her paint water into kitty litter. I thought this was brilliant! A great option…[Read more]

I was concerned about the toxicity also and have done a fair amount of research. The levels seem fairly negligible in the paint. Do you know differently? Now you’ve got me worried again, Kate, because we’re on well and septic. Though compared to the other amount of toxic chemicals that have probably been dumped around here through the years…

Thanks, friend!

Yes, I meant that colors were constantly fading as I painted. I kept having to repaint to gain vibrancy. I also paint in lots of layers and glazes. Love the effect that one gets with building! 🙂 The link feature doesn’t seem to be working but you can copy and paste the link below if you’re curious. I have a tiny sheet of Turner, so I’ll have to…[Read more]

I didn’t buy this set, but Golden is an absolutely phenomenal company. Every time I’ve contacted them, I’ve received a prompt, caring AND educated response. I just started playing with their Open acrylics… awesome stuff!

I agree, Sandra. He is brilliant with color but he is a fairly technical painter, and I’m much more intuitive. I have tried to watch a few of his videos and either get lost or feel like he’s going in a direction that wouldn’t suit me at all.

By the way, total change of subject… I know you said that Strathmore Imperial is your favorite paper. I…[Read more]