To fix wavy watercolor paper, you can effectively flatten it using a simple pressing method, which involves dampening the paper and applying pressure overnight. This technique helps restore the paper's flat surface by evenly distributing moisture and then compressing it as it dries.
Understanding Why Watercolor Paper Becomes Wavy
Watercolor paper often buckles or becomes wavy due to its interaction with water. As the paper absorbs water during painting, its fibers expand. When the water evaporates unevenly, or if the paper is not adequately prepared (e.g., stretched), it can dry into an undesirable wavy or buckled state. This is especially common with lighter weight papers (under 300 gsm or 140 lb).
The Pressing Method to Flatten Wavy Paper
The most effective and widely used method to flatten watercolor paper after it has dried wavy is the pressing method. This technique leverages controlled moisture and sustained pressure to gently reshape the paper.
Here’s a step-by-step guide based on proven practices:
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Prepare Your Workspace: Find a clean, flat, and sturdy surface. Ensure you have all the necessary materials ready.
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Lightly Dampen the Back:
- Crucial Step: Very lightly spritz the back of your painting with water.
- Use a spray bottle set to a fine mist. Just a few squirts are sufficient to lightly moisten the paper without saturating the artwork. The goal is to make the paper fibers pliable again.
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Layer for Pressing:
- Place your dampened painting face-up on a clean, flat surface.
- Cover the Painting: Place a second sheet of butcher paper over your dampened painting. This acts as a protective barrier and helps absorb excess moisture evenly. You can also use blotting paper or a clean, smooth towel.
- Add a Rigid Top: Place a rigid, flat surface on top. Plexiglass (plexi) is ideal due to its weight and transparency, allowing you to see if the paper is centered. If plexiglass isn't available, a sturdy piece of cardboard or a smooth, flat wooden board can also work effectively.
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Apply Significant Weight:
- Pile on the Books: To ensure even and firm pressure, pile a substantial amount of weight on top of the plexi or cardboard. Heavy books, art encyclopedias, or even heavy bricks wrapped in cloth are excellent choices.
- Distribute the weight evenly across the entire surface of the paper to prevent new buckles.
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Leave Overnight:
- Allow the paper to dry completely under pressure. Leave it overnight (typically 8-12 hours) or even longer for very heavy paper or significant buckling. The longer it stays under pressure, the flatter it will become.
Summary of Materials for Pressing
| Material | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spray Bottle | Lightly dampening the paper | Fine mist setting is essential. |
| Butcher Paper | Protecting the artwork and absorbing moisture | Can substitute with blotting paper or clean newsprint. |
| Plexiglass | Applying even pressure | Cardboard or a flat wooden board works as an alternative. |
| Heavy Books | Providing sustained weight | Distribute weight evenly. |
| Flat Surface | Foundation for the pressing setup | A clean table or floor. |
Preventing Wavy Paper in the Future
While post-painting flattening is effective, prevention is often easier. Consider these methods to minimize buckling during your watercolor process:
- Stretching Paper: For paper lighter than 300 gsm (140 lb), stretching it before painting is highly recommended. This involves thoroughly wetting the paper, taping it to a rigid board (like Gatorboard or a drawing board) with gummed tape, and letting it dry taut.
- Using Heavier Paper: Opt for heavier watercolor paper, such as 300 gsm (140 lb) or 600 gsm (300 lb). These papers are more resistant to buckling due to their thickness and stability.
- Controlling Water Application: Apply water and paint layers more evenly and allow each layer to dry partially before adding the next, especially for delicate techniques.
