Artists’ Tools

Knives for Artwork

In many artistic endeavors there is a need to cut precisely and easily.  In each media there is a knife that will lend a helping hand.  All you have to know is which knife is best designed to do a specific task.  Following are some informal guidelines on knives and their uses.  You will see that some knives are multi-purpose while others have very special applications.

Probably the most commonly used knife and one of the most important tools in an artists’ cache is an X-Acto knife with a sharp pointed blade and simple handle.  This tool can be useful in dozens of important ways.  Because the blade is interchangeable, it represents a media-crossing tool, being very helpful in everything from painting to mat cutting to framing.  The common pointed blade is excellent for sizing art materials of all kinds.  With care, an X-Acto knife can cut through thick, dense materials like backing board, illustration board and the like.  With multiple passes and pressure, you can even cut through lightweight Masonite.  This is particularly helpful to panel artists who wish to size and shape their own materials. 

The point on any blade can be useful in the removal of an “oops” or unwanted line or paint stroke.  Watercolorists, acrylic and pen and ink artists all benefit from having a sharp blade in their paint box.  When working on paper, a blade (sharp new razor blade, X-Acto, snap blade cutter, even box cutter) works great to lightly abrade the surface of the paper.  After gentle scraping with the tip of the blade, use an eraser to remove the disturbed fibers from the paper and then repair the area.  Printmakers also use this technique but usually to pick away tiny specs of ink inadvertently left behind on prints.

Printmaking is done from a master “plate” in some techniques.  This plate can be made of wood, foam, rubber, wax, eraser, linoleum or a variety of other materials.  The knife you use greatly depends on the material from which you wish to create your master.  Lino knives are specially designed tips that fit into a handle, each creating different shapes in the carving process.  These same tips are great for eraser and rubber.  In the case of wood, you can use one of the special knife tips from a wood carving set.  You might also consider using lino knives on a wood master if the wood is soft or the carving is limited.  Special carving blades with sturdy handles are important tools for printmakers.  They value their collections and keep the blades clean, sharpening them often. 

Mat cutting can be done with almost any sharp blade that has an attached handle.  Use pressure and repeated cuts in the same “track” to cut clean edges in the window of your mats.  Straight cuts are the easiest, although with practice you can learn ways to create beveled windows, even with simple handheld cutting knives.  Never avoid mat cutting because you don’t have special expensive equipment.  It is very possible to cut beautiful straight-cut windows with a $2 knife and a metal straight edge.  Be brave; do it.

Crafting often calls for precision cutting and a good handheld cutter is very useful.  Paper can be cut into shapes, templates can be cut around and string, ribbon or yarns can be cut with a blade.  Leathers often need cutting with blades because of their hard, thick nature.  When cutting thick materials, one should use repeated passes with the blade, rather than attempting to cut through in one pass.  The resulting cut will be clean and easy if you use a bit of care in how you hold and use the blade.

Scrapbook and collage artisans can benefit from careful use of a sharp blade when cutting the multitudes of papers they work with.  The edges of paper cut with a knife are not ragged or deckled; they are clean and precise.  Long strips, ribbon shapes and exact duplicates (created with a stack and cut technique) are easy when you employ a sharp blade.

You have noticed that the word “sharp” is often mentioned in the description of the blade recommended for all the art methods.   Even though these blades represent a possible danger to the user, the sharper the blade, the easier it is to do the job you are attempting.  A dull blade will mean you must use more pressure and more cuts to achieve the quicker results of a sharp one.  There is a much higher chance of a slip with a dull blade and that could mean an injury.

Rolling cutters are great for straight paper cutting.  They are round blades, either on a handle or in a tabletop cutter.  As you draw the wheel across the paper, the cutter rolls and cuts it—very safe and very easy.  They are, however, limited to paper cutting.  Thick materials such as mat board or cardboard will ruin the blade.

Whether you choose safety razor blades, an X-Acto knife, a snap-blade knife, special printmaker carving blades, rolling cutters or another cutting device, there is one you will learn to love.  The wide spectrum of applications makes blades invaluable to all creative people.  Explore the cutter aisle in your local art supply store and you will discover one just right for you.

The Artist’s Marketplace

New Kits from Savoir-Faire

Savoir-Faire has introduced a brand new partnership with actor and artist Jane Seymour—Paint with Jane Art Kits.  The AquaStic Drawing Kit comes with a set of 10 Cretacolor Aquastics while the Watercolor Painting Kit comes with a Raphael Watercolor travel set.  Each kit contains eight note cards made of Fabriano watercolor paper and eight envelopes.  Four of the cards are pre-printed with original floral designs by Jane that you can add color to and create your own beautiful works of art.  Also included is a DVD on which Jane shares some of her painting techniques as well as thoughts about art and the artistic process.  Paint with Jane Kits are perfect for beginning artists of any age.  See your retailer and visit www.savoirfaire.com.

New Unique Fluid Acrylic Colors from Da Vinci

Twenty-five years ago Da Vinci was the first brand to provide a professional watercolor in huge 37mL tubes; and they were the first to formulate a permanent Alizarin Crimson over 15 years ago.  Today marks another first for what appears to be an innovation-driven company—the launch of Da Vinci’s Professional Fluid Acrylic line.  This unique color range of 48 is a fusion between Da Vinci’s most distinguished watercolor hues and those colors traditionally found on acrylic palettes.  The new line is the result of hundreds of requests received from artists who wanted a fluid acrylic line with a refreshing color range and one that would stay intense even when used with a watercolor technique.  No fillers or extenders are added and each formula is packed with lightfast pigments that are ASTM approved.

Visit your retailer for Da Vinci’s new Fluid Acrylic colors.  For further information or to request a free 2007 catalog, e-mail dvp@DaVinciPaints.com; and visit www.DaVinciPaints.com to see their extensive line of fine products.

New Artool Freehand MINI SERIES Airbrush Templates

Artool Products Co. has announced the availability of their long-awaited Freehand MINI SERIES Airbrush Templates.  The MINI SERIES contains all of your favorite eye-popping and useful designs by artists Craig Fraser, Mike Lavallee, Deborah Mahan and Dennis Mathewson…in a new smaller size!  The Artool Freehand MINI SERIES Template original designs can now be easily rendered on smaller projects such as 1/8^th to 1/25^th model scales, RC cars, model airplanes and trains, model cars and kits, figure models, body art and a myriad of kustom automotive applications!  All Artool MINI SERIES Templates are sold as a set, and each template is approximately 5” x 7”.  See your retailer and visit www.artoolproducts.com

Kids’ Korner

Spring Gardens

Spring is a time of renewal and greenness and there is no better way to experience the joy of this season than with a garden.  You can choose the type and size of garden you will have, from a small vegetable patch or flower bed to a decorative and showy cottage garden or simply a tiny treasure windowsill garden. 

To see a seed, covered with soil, watered, and then almost magically become a plant that might bear an edible fruit is very exciting.  It is a joy that should be experienced and savored by everyone.  You can create a simple windowsill garden with materials that are around your home right now.  What you will need to gather:  a container for your garden (such as a small wooden box, an empty gallon food container or a large plastic butter or whipped topping tub).  Choose a surface that can be painted or decorated with stickers, paint or markers so you can make it an art object that also holds plants.  You will also need a container full of potting soil and a saucer to set under your planter. 

Your choice of seed should match your container.  Herbs and small crops like radishes grow wonderfully in small containers such as large vegetable tins or plastic iced tea glasses, and flowers can grow in larger planters such as gallon tins or cutoff plastic milk jugs.  Crops like squash, gourds, pumpkins and most vegetables need more space than windowsill planters provide, so plan to plant them outdoors.

Begin by filling your chosen container with soil and tamping it gently into place.  Allow about one inch of space at the top of your planter for added soil and future watering.  Set your seeds onto the packed, flat surface.  Sift additional soil over the seeds to a depth equal to the thickness of the seed.  Pat the surface, then water gently, so the seeds are dampened but not uncovered. 

Place in a sunny window and expect exciting things to happen.  Watching the seed immerge, the tiny leaves start to form and the plant start to grow is fun.  Changes occur every day, so keep a close eye on the transformation.  Remember to water when the soil feels dry.

While you are enjoying your success, imagine what a larger space outdoors might be like.  Perhaps you and your friends could grow vegetables and share in the fun.  

Children’s Festival

The International Child Art Foundation will host the World Children’s Festival on June 23-25 on the National Mall at 4^th to 7^th Streets, between the National Gallery of Art and the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.  The Festival will showcase children’s creativity, imagination and talent and much more.  Activities are free and open to the public each day from 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.  Visit www.icaf.org for more info.

Book Awards

The American Library Association has announced the 2007 Literary Award winners:  Flotsam, illustrated by David Wiesner, is the Caldecott Medal winner for most distinguished American picture book for children; When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom, illustrated by Kadir Nelson and written by Carole Boston Weatherford, received the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award; and Zelda and Ivy:  The Runaways, written and illustrated by Laura McGee Kvasnosky, received the Theodor Seuss Geisel Award.

Birthday and Literacy

In honor of the 50^th Birthday celebration of Dr. Seuss’ beloved classic The Cat in the Hat, kids have until May 1 to make a difference by participating in a literacy initiative:  Send a card to the cat as part of Project 236, a national program to raise awareness of literacy issues, and Random House will donate one new book to First Book (an international nonprofit literacy organization) for each card received. Visit www.seussville.com.

Pastels

Soft, Luminous and Alive Pastels

Working in such a spontaneous and rich media as pastels has many rewards.  The instant application of color and shape as well as the ability to blend colors to the exact hue desired are two of the most important aspects of working in pastel.  There are, however, many differences in them and many different manufacturers from which to make your selection.

Cost is one aspect of any art material that seems paramount to the artist.  You might ask yourself why there is such a wide spectrum of differences in the costs you encounter.  Pigment content is the main reason.  The more rich and luscious pigment you have, the more coloring power and the higher the cost.  The best suggestion is to try different brands to find one that affords you the best coverage, the widest color range and the best value.  One way to explore the differences is to select a limited color palette and purchase the same tones in different brands.  Do tests to see which ones work best with your style and manner of application. 

Soft and hard pastels give two different looks to artwork.  Soft pastels render a smooth, rich line that seems to be floating on the surface of the paper.  Hard pastels give bold, well defined lines and are great for sharp, clean definition.  Both have wonderful application possibilities for different creative needs.

Storage of sticks and pieces in drawers or small cartons, grouped by color family, facilitates quick retrieval.  Selecting a portable unit in which to store your pastels makes field work/plein air work easier.  And when one color migrates to other sticks, sprinkle dry rice/wheat grains in the storage drawers; the abrasion helps the pastels to stay nice and clean. 

See your retailer for all your creative needs when working with pastels:  General’s Pastel Chalk Pencils from General Pencil Co.; Sennelier Soft and Oil Pastels from Savoir Faire; and various fine pastel papers from Strathmore and Borden & Riley.

Art Events

Learning & Product Expo:  ART!
Washington, DC
Marriott Inn & Conference Center At UMUC
June 1-3
Classes begin May 31

Immerse yourself in a unique experience for artists where you can visit an exhibit hall packed with art material manufacturers and choose from a program of 200 art classes from airbrush to drawing to pastel to watercolor and much more.  Visit www.learningproductexpo.com for more information and to register.

The Contemporary Printmaker
Minneapolis, MN
Walker Art Center
Wednesdays in April 11-25
6 – 7:30 p.m.

Printmaking in all its forms is both integral to the artistic process and invaluable for experimentation.  This class includes a lecture on recent developments in printmaking, demonstrations at Highpoint Center for Printmaking and a tour of the exhibition Paper Trail.  Fee.  Call 612.375.7600; visit http://calendar.walkerart.org.

Art Alive 2007
San Diego Museum of Art, CA
April 13-15

This 26^th annual springtime festival of flowers will feature over 100 floral designers who will create beautiful masterpieces inspired by works in the Museum’s collection.  A floral demonstration/lecture and an exclusive gala are also planned.  Visit www.sdmart.org.

Doors Open Denver
Denver, CO
April 14-15
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This free, annual citywide event offers residents and visitors an opportunity to learn about Denver’s diverse architecture and design through tours of more than 75 sites, including family activities at the Denver Art Museum. Call 720.865.4323 or visit http://www.denvergov.org/TabId/385301/default.aspx.

ARTROPOLIS
Chicago, IL
April 26-30

This citywide celebration of art, antiques and culture features Art Chicago, The Merchandise Mart International Antiques Fair, The Artist Project, Intuit Show of Folk and Outsider Art, the Bridge Art Fair and more.  See additional info and print an extensive brochure at www.artropolischicago.com.

Sugarloaf Crafts Festival
Timonium, MD
Maryland State Fairgrounds
April 27-29

View the works of 350 fine artists and crafts designers at this juried show, featuring works ranging from accessories and baskets to sculpture and wood items.  There will be demos, entertainment and more.  Admission is good for all three days.  Visit http://www.sugarloafcrafts.com/.

Airbrush

A Tool Kit for Airbrushers

The airbrush needs periodic maintenance and repair that requires the use of certain tools.  Following are some useful items that you can gather for an airbrush studio tool kit.

The airbrush usually comes with a small wrench, sometimes called a spanner.  It can have one end or two ends of differing sizes, depending upon the manufacturer.  In some cases the wrench is used to remove the airbrush tip for cleaning and/or replacement; in other cases it is used to tighten the hose to the airbrush.  Because of its small size the wrench is easy to misplace, so keep it in a tool kit.

Another handy item is a reamer that’s used for scraping dried paint from the needle channel of the airbrush.  This is not an easy item to find, but it’s available at some art supply stores.  The reamer looks exactly like an airbrush needle, but is ground to a flat edge at the tip, resembling a knife blade.  After removing the needle, insert the reamer and twirl it with your fingers to scrape clean the inside of the airbrush head assembly.  This is also easy to misplace, so be sure to return it to your kit after each use.

A small crescent wrench is handy to tighten the airbrush hose to the air source, be it a compressor or carbonic gas tank regulator.  This usually has a ½” threaded nut and requires a wrench larger than a spanner to tighten.

A pair of needle nose pliers should be added to your tool kit.  These can be used for a variety of things such as pulling out a stuck needle that paint has dried around or to grip and hold small difficult-to-reach parts.  Consider wrapping the jaws of the pliers with tape so you won’t mar the soft metal parts that are handled. 

A small screwdriver is handy, either one used for electrical work or possibly watchmaker or eyeglass repair.  Screws used in airbrushes are very small with a tiny slot, so a small tool is essential.

Tweezers are good for extracting parts such as air valves or washers that are found inside the airbrush.  These are also good for removing the dried film of paint that is difficult to reach in the bottom of the color cup or paint bowl.

A small, stiff brush is useful when cleaning the airbrush with solvents.  Also, an angled toothbrush is good for getting into the bottom of color cups and scrubbing with cleaner.

To remove any corrosive buildup on various parts of the airbrush, including the needle and air intake, a light abrasive polish (such as Brasso) can be used to cosmetically clean the metal body and some of the removable metal parts.

It’s good to have on hand a roll of silicone tape for sealing threads on the regulator to help prevent air leaks when the hose is attached.  And beeswax can be used for eliminating any pesky air leaks on the paint tip (air cap).

Find yourself a small plastic or metal toolbox or container to hold your various airbrush maintenance tools, perhaps one in a bright color so it’s always visible for ready access.

Free New Airbrush Newsletter

Visit www.airbrushtalk.com for the new issue of AirbrushTalk, a free bi-monthly e-newsletter for airbrush enthusiasts.  You’ll find Fancy Picture Frames—A Little Decoration Goes a Long Way by Janean S. Thompson, Body Makeup with a Twist by Bradley M. Look, and Pin-Up Girlies Part 2 – Step- by-Step by Deborah Mahan, plus info on new products and airbrush workshops.

ArtPourri

Skills Improve with Art -- A research study at Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum has revealed a strong correlation between the “School Partnership Program” and improved critical thinking skills in children.  Part of a larger nationwide initiative, the three-year “Thinking Through Art” study findings revealed a significant positive impact of arts education on critical thinking and learning in elementary students in grades 3-5.  See www.gardnermuseum.org.

Lost Painting Found—The FBI’s Art Crime Team have located an original Norman Rockwell painting, Russian Schoolroom, stolen in Missouri in 1973.  Upon viewing an FBI Theft Notice, producer Steven Spielberg’s staff notified authorities that he had purchased the painting from a legitimate dealer in 1989.  He will retain possession of the painting until its disposition can be determined as the investigation continues.

Memorial to Victims – Thailand recently opened a seaside sculpture garden as a new memorial to victims of the 2004 tsunami.  The main sculpture, “Hold Me Close,” was donated by renowned artist Louise Bourgeois.   

Director Appointed – The Dia Art Foundation has announced the appointment of Jeffrey Weiss, curator and head of the Department of Modern and Contemporary Art at the National Gallery of Art, as Dia’s new director.  Weiss will assume his post in late spring and succeeds Michael Govan.

Exhibitions:

Cincinnati, OH – Cincinnati Art Museum – Andrew Wyeth Watercolors and Drawings, Selections from the Marunuma Art Park Collection, Japan includes 114 watercolors and drawings inspired by the world of Christina and Alvaro Olson in Cushing, ME.  Spanning three decades of his career, the works range from stand-alone watercolors to preliminary notations and detailed studies that demonstrate how the artist’s compositions evolved into finished tempera paintings.  Through May 6.

Houston, TX – Museum of Fine Arts – The Temptations of Flora:  Jan van Huysum is the first large-scale exhibition devoted to the artist’s work, renowned for the tremendous realism with which he painted elaborate floral and fruit arrangements.  A selection of production drawings, paintings that represent other facets of his work and works by his predecessors, contemporaries and followers complement the exhibition.  Through May 20.

New York, NY – New York Historical Society – A New Light on Tiffany:  Clara Driscoll and The Tiffany Girls reveals that many lamps, windows and other luxury objects produced by Tiffany Studios were not designed exclusively by Louis Comfort Tiffany.  Featured are approximately 60 lamps, windows, mosaics, enamels and ceramics designed by Clara Driscoll and other women at Tiffany Studios.  Through May 28.

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Copyright ARTtalk Vol. 17 No. 6 — April 2007