studio essentials
Studio essentials are materials and tools I use across multiple processes and must to have on hand keep the studio organized. ​
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Grounds and Mediums:
These are acrylic and oil mediums I keep on hand and a steady supply to support my mixed media work.
For acrylic painting, collaging, extending paint and art journal effects, these Golden mediums are always close by.
Golden Glazing Liquid 8oz - Satin finish - use as a glue, a "varnish" and to extend paint to create beautiful translucent glazing effects.
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Golden Color Pouring Medium 16 oz - Gloss - great for pouring techniques, the look of resin in jewelry making, and mixed media processes.
Golden Color Pouring Medium 32 oz
For impasto effects, ephemera that needs some extra adhesive glue, and thicker encaustic glaze effects I turn to
Golden Regular Gel - Semi-gloss 8oz
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For oil/cold wax techniques I love Gamblin's cold wax medium. Two sizes:
Gamblin Artist Colors Cold Wax Oil Painting Medium 4oz
Gamblin Artist Colors Cold Wax Oil Painting Medium 16oz
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Gesso is a must for priming surfaces for acrylic or oil paintings, mixed media or adding to preprinted canvases and canvas panels. Often an extra layer of gesso is needed. Of course Golden Gesso is my go-to.
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Golden Wetting Agent/Flow Release 4 oz
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Tools
Have paint tubes you can't get opened?? I keep one of these in my plein air bags and one in the studio.
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For cleaning brushes, mild dish detergent or a bar of Ivory soap are fine. But when they need a good cleaning, or paint has dried and I think the brush is dead, The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver will bring them back to life.
Note: don't use Murphy's Oil Soap, make it a habit to clean brushes after each paint session, bring to a point and lay flat to dry.
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Mini Travel Color Wheel - for travel and plein airing
9.25" Color Wheel - for the studio
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This portable palette has it all! And airtight tray of 16 wells for watercolor or gouache. acrylic or oil. And it comes nestled in an expandable water cup! Airtight Paint Saver Air-Tight Storage Box
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