My method of blending is actually that, dry blending/burnishing. In order to be successful with this method of blending it's important to get enough colored pencil pigment on the paper or it will not work. In other words, the paper has to be fairly saturated. The brush can only pick up a little bit of color so it’s basically just smearing it around.
2. What kind of colored pencils do you use?
I only use Prismacolor. The primary reason is because they have more wax in them than most of the other brands. The wax-based pigment tends to adhere to the paper better. Most other brands are oil based so the pigment is harder. I’ve also noticed that the oil based pigments do not adhere as well when applied to the sandpaper. For me, that creates another problem because I blend the pigment with a brush. The wax-based pigment will blend whereas the other pigments appear to sweep off the paper.
3. What kind of sandpaper do you use?
I use UArt sandpaper in the 800 grit. Uart is a new fine art sandpaper that replaces Ersta. Unlike Ersta, it is produced on a neutral pH backing. The papers are available in four grits ranging from P400 (coarse) - P800 (very fine). It is available in sheets in a variety of sizes, and rolls in all surfaces! To learn more check out their new webpage.
4. Where can I get the UArt sandpaper?
I generally get it through Dakota Art but if you click here or on the Store Locator link that is on the UArt webpage you'll find a list of carriers.
5. Does it come in different colors?
It only comes in one color. It’s close to cream.
6. What kind of brush do you use?
I use a Loew Cornell # 2015. They come is sizes 2 and 4. Unfortunately they need to be trimmed. You will need to trim the size 2 to about 1/4 of an inch and the size 4 to about 1/2 inch. For best results trim them when the sizing is in them, otherwise they will be difficult to cut. If the bristles are too long and you try to blend, the brush will just lay down and you won’t be able to move any pigment. If they are too short the brush will remove the pigment so be careful.
7. Will any other brush work?
Yes. I'm sure there are quite a few brushes that will work however it takes time and money to find them. Since these brushes are cheap and I ruin them on the sandpaper, for my purposes they are the best. I have tried other brushes though but I keep coming back to these.
8. Where can I buy these brushes and how much do they cost?
The best way to get them is through Asel Art in Plano, TX. They will do mail order. Keep in mind that you will need several. If you tell them you want Linda's brushes they should know what you mean. If there’s any question just tell them that you want the Loew Cornell # 2015 and that they are kept with the colored pencils. They cost about $2.50 each.
Asel Art
1915 N.Central Exwy #450
Plano Tx 75075
972-422-1205
972-422-1388(fax)
Store Hours
Mon-Fri 8:30am-6pm
Sat 9am-5pm
Sun 1pm-5pm
9. One last thing, what do I do when my brush gets dirty?
When it gets dirty just wash it with soap and water and let it dry.
If there is anything you'd like to know that you think should be added to my list of questions and answers please let me know.
