Getting Started with Ampersand Aquabord
July 2, 2021
Getting started with Ampersand Aquabord
Watercolours and gouache, when used on Aquabord, are richer and more vibrant than when used on paper. Aquabord is also very forgiving. If you make a mistake – just wash it off! This museum quality panel has a soft, absorbent, mineral coating with a unique granular texture.
You may notice small “pin-like” protrusions once you lay down your washes and you may also see tiny bubbles forming on the surface. This is normal. We recommend “flushing out” Aquabord before beginning your painting by simply applying an even wash of water with a large brush over the entire surface. Let the air escape. Once the board is back to a damp stage, you can begin working on it. Beginning with this method will result in a more even wash. The sponge-like granules absorb the water and pigment allowing incredible control over color and washes. The surface’s clay-base holds colors in suspension, allowing them to flow into each other to create seamless washes when the board is wet or dry. The surface is pH neutral and acid free; and, when sealed, it will last forever.
To create natural looking highlights and bring the light back into your painting, use a wet sponge, cotton swabs, white erasers or a clean brush to lift and remove colors with ease. Paint as heavily as desired because Aquabord won’t warp, crack, or bend like paper when using heavy paint applications. Don’t worry about lint residue, torn paper, or using masking fluid because Aquabord is very forgiving and durable and will hold up to repeated wetting and scraping. You can even add fine lines and details with a scratch knife or other Claybord Tools which will bring back the white of the board.
When finished, seal Aquabord with a finishing spray and free your painting from the additional weight and glare caused when framing behind glass. Seal watercolors or gouache with several light coats of spray varnish (or fixative), being careful to spray outdoors during warmer months or in a well ventilated and heated area during colder times of the year. We recommend the Krylon UV Archival varnishes. These spray varnishes offer advanced non-yellowing protection against fading, dirt, moisture and discoloration. The Krylon UV Archival varnishes contain superior levels of UV light absorbers and are removable for conservation purposes. For additional protection against scratches during transport and also ultraviolet light, follow the application of Krylon spray varnish with Golden Polymer UVLS varnish. About 4 coats brushed-on, provides a very durable archival finish and is also removable for conservation purposes.