Pull Out That Plastic!

No, I'm not talking about your credit cards! I'm talking about the perfectly clear, medium weight plastic that's sold by the yard at fabric stores.

Here's one use for it that takes the guesswork out of glazing a canvas with acrylics:

Create a small, sample batch of glaze, then brush the mixture onto a small piece of the plastic. Lay the plastic over the area on your canvas that you plan to glaze. You'll be able to see right away what effects the mixture will have on underlying colors. Making small samples lets you test a variety of color combos and adjust them using only tiny amounts of paint and glazing liquid.

When the plastic gets filled up with samples, squirt it with rubbing alcohol and wipe it clean with a soft cloth or paper towel. This allows you to use the plastic again and again.

You can apply a coat of Golden's GAC100 to the plastic first to improve adhesion of the glaze, if desired. If you do, let the GAC100 dry before applying the glaze over it.
The clarity of this type of plastic is what makes it so useful. It's as clear as glass. It's inexpensive, too. I found it in my local fabric store for less than $4 per yard. (I used a coupon that brought the price down to $3.) Look for it in the same area as the upholstery and decorator fabrics.

©2015 Lynn Edwards