Coloring Page BACKGROUND IDEAS & Masking Tricks

Coloring page backgrounds can sometimes be the hardest part of a coloring page – so I’m testing out some different masking methods and mixed mediums to see if we can come up with some new background ideas that are easy and look good!

For the masking methods, I’m trying out masking pens, masking tape and masking film.

And for the coloring mediums, I’m trying out PanPastels, soft pastels, a watercolor “hack” with normal markers, and the Ranger Distress Oxides from @timholtz

These different mediums would all usually be too impractical or messy in a coloring book, so masking opens up a huge range of creative possibilities… IF it works! Let’s find out together.

Projects Tried:
0:00 Intro
1:48 Masking Pen 1 & Tombow Watercolor Hack
7:47 Masking Pen 2 & PanPastels
15:44 Masking Film & Distress Oxide
21:30 Masking Tape & Soft Pastels
25:15 What I’ll Use Again

Resources used in this video:



#sarahrenaeclark #timholtz #coloringpages
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[Cerydwyn]

Even on watercolour paper, it's still a good idea to test your masking fluid and masking tape. Many a time I've ended up frustrated because my paper has torn despite being 140lb watercolour paper. I've also come to discover that the thicker the better with masking fluid. I had been applying thin layers and getting frustrated when it didn't peel off. Then I tried applying the fluid in the ticker layer and it came off like a dream

[jodirennert]

the magic of the distress oxides is in the oxidation when you add water! maybe wouldn't do it for a background page like this but try using a spray bottle and gently spraying some water onto the smooth blended ink and watch what happens...

[loganfude]

I love how you adapt to the mistakes! This is most certainly the mark of a great artist, and confidence that I can fix any mistakes I encounter takes the stress out of making art. Thank you for making us feel better about our imperfections!

[maxineperry]

Sarah: when using the pan pastel tools the sponge tip applicators can be wiped off on a paper towel then can use for the next color. No mix of colors on the applicators or pans.

[John_B]

Hi. I use the Molotow Masking Marker (blue liquid) and it is great on watercolor paper. I have never tried it on anything with less weight than 140 lb paper. It is very strong and will hold up to a lot a water and multiple layers. I don't think it is made for use on paper of less weight however. As for the W&N Masking Fluid with Yellow Tint, it is great, but again, it is really meant for use on watercolor paper. There are also special made "erasers" for masking fluid, they are normally called Rubber Cement Pick-ups or Glue Residue Erasers. These will peel the masking fluid away without tearing the paper. You just rub it over the masking fluid after it is dried and it sticks to the eraser and peels up. I have used the pastels with the masking fluid on watercolor paper to help with the backgrounds. Great way to mix mediums and get an awesome look to your artwork. Hope this helps!

[janewolfinbarger]

For more translucent look, try the Distress Inks instead of the Distress Oxides. Both are beautiful, just slightly different looks.

[carinafrancis]

Good on you for showing us you learning something new… we all have failures at the start and it is all a bit of fun

[JojozaHannaHawaii]

I loved that you tested/experimented with these mediums. Thank you so much for doing this!!🌺

[marleneleroux]

I absolutely love this video. Thank you so much Sarah for experimenting in front of the camera. It makes it all more realistic for me. I now know what I want to use for my back grounds to help me sort out those lines which stressed me out

[cindydo]

Hi Sarah,
Hope you’re well. I am catching up on your videos - especially thinking of creating different backgrounds for my colouring pages. Best and full of informative ideas as always. Thank you for your effort to keep it light and fun to watch - love the phrase “work the mistakes in” ❤.

[beckymacallester]

Great video! I love when you experiment on camera because we can learn along with you.

I've heard of ranger inks, but haven't tried them yet. Backgrounds are my nemisis, so maybe that will help.

[CherylMcGregor]

You are doing the Distress Oxides correctly - they blend well but it takes a little practice. Watch Tim Holtz, Kristine Werner, and Amy Rysavy.

[monak]

🤣😂🤣 You had my cry-laughing with the whole soda water and paint water mix-up! 🤣😂🤣😂 I swear that is something I would do!! 🤪💖🤗💖

[vikkimeaney]

I’m a card maker that has started dabbling in other areas of craft I’m not natural at it but you and Jazza have inspired me so much that I took the plunge and got loads of supplies to start learning new things ❤❤❤ love your channel I am new but binged so many of your videos hahaha

[djmsutherland]

So glad you've discovered Ranger Distress Inks and Ranger Distress Oxide Inks. They are fabulous, . I am a card maker and have been using them for years. Highly recommend Tim Holtz videos on the many ways of using them. Enjoy! Great video. Your videos are always educational and fun.

[creative_carrie]

Wow, the distress oxide is amazing!! I'll definitely be getting some in the future!
You should definitely try Watercolour pencils. Mixing at and dry is really cool

[takkat]

I know this is an old video but this is interesting. I've never seen pan pastels before and I really do like using soft pastels in my colouring books for backgrounds. I would really like to try pan pastel I reckon they would be so much easier to use.

[crystalBall]

I'm super late but my masking tape hack that many watercolorists use is to heat up the masking tape with a blow dryer. It softens the adhesive.

[KayLeeHoward-vcph]

Just came across this channel and I love her! So useful for all kinds of art stuff !!

[susanmorgan]

To watch a master using distress inks on coloring pages, follow Zucchini Kitty. She does amazing work. Thanks for demonstrating the masking pens and pan pastels, and for trying new stuff!