Herron Class 7: Using Gel Medium

We used textured paper - we created the texture with gel medium. The gel coating makes any surface archival quality. We used two different methods.

Method 1, Just Gel: Mix gel medium and water in a 1:1 ratio. Apply with a foam brush onto matboard*. Wait for it to dry, then paint it. The gel creates texture and makes the board water-resistant. To lift color, just add water.

I did Blue Ocean Waves with Method 1, (c) 2010 by Jess Sanaie, 10x6in.

Method 2: Gel Plus Tissue Paper: Apply gel medium directly to matboard*. Next, crinkle a sheet of tissue paper and tap it down onto the board so it sticks to the gel. Dry it with a hairdryer, then apply a coat of gel mixed with water in a 1:1 ratio to the board with a foam brush. After it dries, paint it**. I haven't finished my assignment for this method yet.

*Note 1: You could use illustrator board or watercolor paper.
**Note 2: If you don't apply a coat of gel over the tissue paper, any paint applied to the tissue paper will run uncontrollably.