Isabella Flores
Gouache is a type of opaque, water-based paint that is commonly used by commercial artists for posters, illustrations, and comics. It is similar to watercolour in that it can be rewet and dried to a matte finish, but differs in that it has larger particles, a higher ratio of pigment to binder, and is often mixed with a white filler such as chalk. Due to its low moisture content, gouache dries quickly and is prone to drying out. Additionally, gouache is at high risk of lifting, cracking, and flaking over time due to the subtle expansion and contraction of the paper. To prevent this, it is recommended to avoid rolling or folding gouache artworks and to store them flat and facing upright when not on display. Proper framing is also important to prevent frame damage, which can cause staining and degradation of the paper over time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gouache paint longevity | Gouache paint can dry out over time, but this can be mitigated by proper storage. |
| Proper storage | Ensure tubes are tightly capped and consider storing in an airtight container to prevent evaporation. |
| Dried paint | Dried gouache paint can be rewet with water and used, though some brands may be easier to rewet than others. |
| Binder separation | Gouache can experience binder separation over time, where the pigment and binder separate. This can be addressed by stirring or squeezing and mixing. |
| Paper conservation | Gouache paintings on paper may be susceptible to damage over time due to paper expansion and contraction. Humidity levels should be controlled, and paintings should be stored flat and upright when not on display. |
| Frame damage | Paintings may also experience frame damage over time, with past framing materials causing discolouration or degradation of the paper. |
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What You'll Learn
Gouache drying out
Gouache is a water-based paint that dries quickly and remains water-soluble after drying. While gouache can be reactivated with water if it dries on a palette, it is challenging to soften gouache once it dries inside the tube.
To prevent gouache from drying out, ensure that the tube lids are tightly sealed when not in use. Storing gouache in a sealed plastic container away from extreme temperatures can also help prolong its life. Additionally, it is recommended to clean the lids and screw them on tightly to prevent evaporation and drying.
If gouache dries inside the tube, it can be challenging to soften, but it is not impossible. One method is to remove the dried paint from the tubes, crush it into a powder, and mix it with water and a drop of Gum Arabic. This mixture can then be stored in small jars with lids and used for washes. Alternatively, a few drops of water can be added to the powder to create a paste, which can then be dried onto a cake form in a watercolour pan or ice cube trays.
For tubes that are not completely dried out, a few drops of water can be added to the tube, and the paint can be stirred with a toothpick to mix the pigment and binder. This method may be messy, as the paint may spill out. Another option is to hold the tube upright and squeeze until the paint and binder come out, then mix them on a palette with a palette knife.
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Binder separation
Gouache is a type of paint where pigments are ground into a powder and combined with a binder, typically gum arabic. Gouache contains a heavy pigment load, and compared to other paints, it has a relatively low amount of binder. This means that once the moisture in the gouache evaporates, the paint will crack and crumble off the page as there is not enough binder to hold it in place.
To address binder separation, you can use a toothpick or a thin, stiff wire to stir the paint inside the tube and mix the binder and pigment. This can be messy, as the paint may spill out. Alternatively, you can hold the tube upright, squeeze until the paint and binder come out, and then mix the two on a palette with a palette knife until they are well blended.
To prevent binder separation, ensure that the tube is capped tightly and consider wrapping it in plastic wrap to protect it from too much air. Some artists also suggest storing the tubes in an airtight container or mason jar to slow down the evaporation process.
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Paper type
Gouache is an opaque, water-based paint that dries quickly and remains water-soluble after drying. It is similar to watercolour in its application but differs in that it produces an opaque layer on paper. Due to its use of heavier binding agents, gouache does not need to be built up in tone and can be applied in one smooth layer for an immediate, fully opaque colour.
When it comes to choosing the right paper for gouache, there are a few options available. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Watercolour paper: This is the most popular choice for gouache as it is designed for opaque watercolours. The thickness and texture of watercolour paper complement the characteristics of gouache. It is important to note that while high-quality watercolour paper (100% cotton) is recommended when diluting gouache, cheaper cellulose paper can also be used. Additionally, the surface of the paper can vary from hot-pressed (smooth) to cold-pressed (textured) to rough pressed, depending on the desired effect and the level of detail in the painting.
- Mixed media paper: This type of paper can also be used for gouache and will help prevent the paper from waving when applying lots of water.
- Other options: Gouache is versatile, and artists can paint on various surfaces such as wood (preferably gessoed), canvas, toned paper, and sketchbook paper.
To ensure the longevity of gouache paintings, it is important to store them properly. Paintings should be kept flat and facing upright when not on display, and they should be stored in a stable environment and checked regularly. Additionally, avoid rolling or folding gouache artworks as this can cause cracking and paint lifting.
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Frame damage
Gouache paintings, like many works on paper, are susceptible to frame damage. The primary issue with framing gouache is that the paper will subtly expand and contract over time due to changes in humidity. This movement can cause the rigid gouache layer to lift, crack, and flake, as it is pushed and pulled by the softer, porous material beneath. The paper may also pull against the framing adhesive, causing weakened, rippled, or torn edges.
To prevent this type of damage, it is important to control the humidity levels in the environment where the artwork is displayed or stored. Ideally, humidity levels should be kept at around 50% and stable, to ensure the paper is not too damp or too dry and is therefore unlikely to consistently contract.
Another issue with framing gouache paintings is that past framing materials may include acidic elements that stain and degrade the paper over time. This usually shows up as yellow or brown discolouration. To avoid this type of damage, it is important to use high-quality, acid-free framing materials.
In addition, gouache paintings should be framed behind glass, with a small distance between the glass and the artwork. This allows for air circulation, which helps to prevent condensation and the growth of mould. A mount between the paper and glass can also help to prevent mould by providing just enough circulation to keep the environment stable.
Finally, to protect gouache paintings and make them more resistant to moisture, artists can apply a fixative or varnish specifically formulated for gouache. This helps to increase the water resistance and protect the artwork from accidental damage caused by moisture.
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Storage
Gouache paint can be stored in its original tube or jar, as long as the lid is tightly closed to prevent air from interacting with the paint and causing it to dry out and crack. If you are concerned about paint drying in the tube, you can wrap it in plastic wrap to protect it from air exposure. Additionally, it is recommended to store paint jars and bottles in a metal box or case to keep them dry.
To further preserve the paint's quality, it is suggested to store gouache in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and at a stable temperature between 10°C and 25°C (50°F and 77°F). Exposure to high UV levels can cause the paint's colour to fade over time.
If you are storing paint on a palette, you can use a glass or plastic container with a lid to prevent drying. Some artists recommend using a sheet of glass that fits the container, as it is easy to clean. To maintain moisture, you can spritz the palette with water or place damp paper towels underneath. However, be cautious not to use too much water, as it can dilute the paint.
For long-term storage, you can place your tubes inside a sealed plastic bag and remove excess air. Additionally, storing airtight palettes in the refrigerator can help maintain consistency and freshness.
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Frequently asked questions
Gouache paint tends to dry out faster than other paints due to its low moisture content. To prevent this, ensure that the lids of your paint tubes are cleaned and tightly screwed on. You can also try wrapping the tubes in plastic or Scotch tape.
Gouache is prone to cracking and flaking over time due to its low binder content and the expansion and contraction of the paper it's painted on. To minimise this, avoid applying gouache too thickly and do not roll or fold your paintings. Always store them flat and facing upright when they're not on display. Additionally, avoid acidic framing materials that can stain and degrade the paper over time.
Discolouration and marks from foxing, mould growth, tape, and glue can be gently removed by conservators through a process called float washing, which involves cleansing the paper in a solution that is tested against the sensitivity of the pigments.
Some brands of gouache paint that have been reported to last a long time include Schmincke Gouache and W/N Potter's Pink.
