Resources for Watercoloring Stamped Images

Hello! As someone who has recently dipped my toes back into the world of watercoloring stamped images, I’ve been on the lookout for inspiration and information to help me improve my skills. In this post, I’m excited to share resources I’ve discovered along the way.

First up, I highly recommend checking out Sandy Allnock’s blog, especially her Watercolor Inspiration. Sandy’s tutorials and tips are incredibly helpful. I also suggest the YouTube channels of Art Impressions and Penny Black. In fact, Jill Foster with Penny Black recently posted a video “Answering YOUR Watercoloring Questions” that shares her tips and tricks. Art Impressions has a strong Facebook group and regularly broadcast live.

After exploring online resources for watercoloring stamped images, I decided to experiment by stamping small images (from Lawn Fawn) on a variety of watercolor papers and using different mediums and brushes to color them. Through this exercise, I discovered which paper, ink, brushes, and mediums worked best for my personal style.

- Paper: Arches Cold Press (also called Cold Pressed)
- Ink: VersaFine Clair or VersaFine Onyx Black (from what I have read, these are the same)
- Brushes: Connoisseur White Taklon, Round Size 4; Connoisseur White Taklon, Round Size 1; Silver Brush Black Velvet Short Handle, Round Size 6; Silver Brush Black Velvet Short Handle, Round Size 8
- Palette: Watercolor Palette
- Watercolor Markers: Tombow Dual Brush Pens; Zig Clean Color Real Brushes

I apply the marker to the palette and pick up the color with a damp paint brush; I do not apply the marker directly to the watercolor paper.

I’ve also learned the importance of keeping an inventory of my supplies. One trick I use is to create a printout of the markers and circle the ones I have (see the chart links below). This not only helps me stay organized but also ensures that I don’t accidentally purchase duplicates. I store the markers in labeled containers. By keeping a well-organized inventory, you can spend more time creating and less time searching for supplies.