2 - Using masking fluid

Example: Single Pink Rose

I start with a good outline drawing on a tough paper such as Bockingford 300 gsm. I use masking fluid to block out the flowers and other areas such as flower-buds that are to finish paler than the background. Although the flowers are going to be painted in watercolour, I have used dilute acrylic paint for the background. I applied dark greens towards the top of the picture and pale greens towards the bottom. I used actual pressed leaves as masks and over-painted with pale green at the top and darker green at the bottom. Also, I had to apply the second layer of paint with a sponge rather than a brush in order to achieve a crisp boundary. I allowed the paint to dry thoroughly before trying to remove the masking fluid. I am now ready to paint the flowers using watercolours. You will notice that I also did some more work on the background with my acrylic sponges.