This painting turned out beautifully! I really like the 90 lb paper too, so I'm a little bummed to hear that this one gave you some trouble. I'm still tempted to try it out though. I'll have to check out your top journal video when it's up ;3
Hello, and thank you! I came across your channel earlier this week and absolutely love your videos! This paper doesn't suit my needs super well, but I think it would be great for wet on wet or simple washes with ink or something of the like. I'll be sure to comment on that on Friday :)
I too am happy to see more of yr work. After I made a playlist of all your reviews and learning all I can on mixing, I searched for your art. But alas didn't find much. Your research abilities are superior and that's why companies seek you out. i can say this because I have that same attention to detail and was in great demand in my field. Burn out got to me. That's why I left a 30-year career in psychology to become the artist I always wanted to be. Paint for yourself first and that joy naturally flows to bless others.
I just love to watch your videos where you talk about different materials/tools and paint. It’s soooo captivating to hear you talk as I watch your painting growing from a blank page. I learn a lot😀
I just used their 140lb 100% cotton paper last night and also commented about how incredibly soft and flexible the paper is. I could soak both sides and curl it up and then lay it flat again - which I can't really do with any of my other papers. I decided it must have less sizing and was also "thirsty" and dries quite fast. I'm glad to see you seem to agree with that. I did feel like I was able to do much better wet on wet techniques with the paper than I've been able to do with any other paper, so I'm hoping even if I don't like this for wet on dry I can use it to really focus on improving my wet on wet! I'm still learning to work with my Da Vinci paints which lift so much easier (read: when I don't want them to) than my M. Graham, so I also appreciated that this paper may help me transition to working more with them. One other thing I noted was that while the back of the pages were much smoother, almost close to hot press, they painted similarly. The only difference I noticed was that the back side seemed to dry much slower than the front sides and did seem to lift a little easier.
I love the way your painting turned out. I think I would like this journal because I tend to love figuring out work arounds. I’ve used the 140lb 6x9 and used it wet on wet, I was extremely impressed at how bright my colors were when it dried.
I just found Bee Journals available again after being discontinued over covid and it brought me back to this video. It's funny that the things you didn't like about it are why I love it (the wetting paper first technique, how it holds the colour). It explains why I struggle with some other papers though, my technique is backwards haha.
Despite your difficulty with the paper, I still really like the result of the painting you made. I can't stop staring at the chameleon's face and its translucent-looking hand.
Yes! I have had the exact same experience with Bee paper. Just recently, I was trying to paint a rose with some rather staining pigments and kept forgetting to wet the petal first! I wanted to feather with water as you mentioned after laying a line at the edge. I kept getting lines that wouldn't budge and bleed and then had to glaze over it to try to hide it! So funny and reassuring to have you put my struggles into words. When struggling, it's so easy to start doubting your own abilities. Thanks for the review and confidence boost! I still loved your painting in the end!
this review actually made me want to go out & buy this paper lol! the dried paint strokes that are well defined give it a very beautiful watercolor look. lots of character. im not a huge fan when everything blends together & i always do wet on wet when I need it to, it's all a preference thing. this is probably one of my favorite pieces from you :) keep up the good work!!
Thank you Bella! I'm so glad you liked it and that the review was helpful. I definitely don't want to discourage anyone from this journal if it fits their painting style!
1:26 I perked right up because I use this paper for quick sketches. 6x9 cotton. It looks like it's very absorbent, too much maybe? Yes more art, Yay! Maybe a wash of gum arabic over this before working on it would be good, but who wants to do that each time? Doesn't leave much room for error. Not terrible paper, but it's good to know it's strengths and weaknesses. Thanks so much!
I did one picture on a new Bee Journal and liked it a lot, but it is an odd style i used--rather blotchy and opaque actually. Wondering now if it might be nice with opaque watercolor/gauche. I'm going to pull out my little set and experiment. I don't usually work like this, so there is that. I did notice a few things you mention.
I’ve mentioned it before, but the bee creative watercolor journal is probably my favorite paper right now! Hilariously, a lot of the things you talk about here-like lifting and sizing and whatnot-are things that I talked about in my holbein video today (including the fact that I almost never lift or scrub) so it’s possible that I prefer it because of my painting style (which does include a lot of wet on wet. =>.
Meow Meow Kapow haha I know! I just finished watching your video. We're so on the same wave length! This paper did do wet on wet beautifully, and I'm sure it would suit that style well :)
Lol, " art detective department", your right, It the best at that too! I'm so glad she did all the work she has done, it truly is priceless! But I have to agree, I would love to see more of her artwork in action.
It's strange. I have the watercolour journal also and the packaging label says it has 25% paper. I see on Amazon that it is now labeled as 100% cotton. Not sure if we are using the same paper. I'll be making a video for this too. The paper is just not good. In short, the colours don't move after they are on paper, so wet on wet techniques are almost impossible.
I think someone had mentioned they have two different types of paper, one with 25% and one with 100%, but I cannot find anything on that now. Do you happen to remember what color the text on the cover sleeve was? Was it blue?
I got the white nights watercolors for Christmas and I was so excited! The first thing I used them on is this bee paper sketchbook and had all the same problems you did and was really bummed. Then I tried them on Fabriano paper...and had all the same problems. I'm so frustrated. So now I don't know if it's the papers or the paints. I'm going to try them on more papers. Have you had this same problem with Fabriano paper? You seemed to like the white nights so I don't know if it is the paints or not. Maybe I'm doing something wrong.
gosh i am such a newbie but this video made me realise that possibly some of my issues when i try to do things have to do with the supplies i use... rip... specifically i got a w&n watercolor marker, and when i tested it in the store i could wash out the harsh marker line completely with water, but i haven't been able to at home. i am now realising it must have been that the art store had the right paper... lol. story time over, regarding your comments about your channel content i want to give you some feedback! i absolutely love seeing and hearing artists' personal processes, preferences and so on, so i really enjoyed this video from you. i'm also glad to hear that you're thinking about what makes you happy and what you want to do here! i'm just grateful that there's all this amazing stuff artists are sharing and making available for free, tbh. technical stuff is really useful when you're trying to learn, but seeing other aspects of someone's creations can also be. both like me with the paper just now, but also in a more general sense that sharing your creativity with others generally produces more of it for everyone. it's a unique commodity in that sense. :) this is a really long comment now so i'll stop myself, tl;dr thanks for sharing!
Supplies aren't everything, but they can definitely make your life harder or easier! I'm not familiar with the markers so I can't help there, but Canson XL is a really liftable paper, maybe a little too much so, but if you're working with staining colors it may be a good place to start! Thank you so much for your kind words about my channel and artwork! It means so much to have you guys backing me up as I've been a bit nervous to drive back into art videos after doing reviews for so long.
I use the Super Delux mixed media. which has 150gsm paper in it. I really love the paper. It's not as heavy as the watercolor - But I use it for my practice journal -- which has everything from notes to finished pieces.
Oh my gosh! I wish I would have watched this earlier! I basically started my watercolor journey with Bee Paper, using their 140 lb 100% cotton 6x9 sheets, the 25% cotton 8x8 watercolor journal, and now I'm just breaking in my 100% cotton 8x8 watercolor journal, so until recently, it's been all I've known. There are several techniques that you mentioned having trouble with that I have also had trouble with, but figured I was just "bad at". Now I'm suspecting that maybe I ought to try a different 100% cotton paper and see if my technical skills can progress with a more agreeable paper!
Happy Valentines Day! I love your art work video's so I'll be happy to see more of them. I love all the video's you do, I know so much more about paints and products from you, you have saved me a lot of money and frustration, you have also caused me to purchase cool new things I didn't really HAVE to have but I guess the savings from purchasing wasteful items balances out :)
Great vid. I had no idea that lifting properties were so important. It was nice to see a live example of a problem instead of it being described in a book or blog. I doubt I would have realized, on my own, how much it could effect your technique. Right now I use Fabriano Artistico 140lb. paper and paint lifts from it just fine. But I'll definitely be testing for that when I buy paper in the future. As my Mom used to say. Thanks loads! 😁
I didn't fully realize either! I actually have to eat my words from my earlier paper review saying I didn't think about doing lifting tests because its not as important to me. I didn't realize that my painting style incorporated the technique as a fluid process!
Hi. Have you ever thought about doing a vid on your least favourite or art supplies to avoid. It might be interesting or at least helpful for those who are inexperienced and still near the beginning of our watercolour journey. Also an interesting follow-up to your top 5 series and end it with a "low" 5. Thanks for this vid, interesting to hear your thought process in evaluation.
Hi Johnny, while I realize that that information may be helpful, I try to keep my videos as positive as I can as I don't want to slander any hard working companies just because I don't like a product. However, regular viewers of the channel have picked up on products or colors that I am not a fan of (e.g. Winsor & Newton Watercolors, Strathmore 500 Paper, Mission Gold's Yellow Ochre), and I'm always happy to answer direct questions honestly.
In Liquid Color No problems, understood. I was just teaching my students today the answer to all questions is "Yes, sure, of course I can." ...😊 If I need to, I will ask directly knowing that you will do your best and be honest. Most companies get something wrong once in a while...I don't like Mijello's Brown Ochre, but really love their Autumn Orange and Greenish-blue. BTW, you have a very pleasant voice which adds to the unique charm and appeal of your vids. Thank you for your reply. 👍
Sorry I simply must comment we have to make the YT algorithm do its job! I do not use journals anymore, I take a watercolor block with me if I travel i would like to say I find your artwork AMAZING! You know this because I have cracked open the wallet and I own some of your original work! Lovely video and we expect nothing less from you! DO you ever just slack off? I hope to find that video, if you have left it online!
Bee company has some great mixed media paper. Also I just purchased a huge roll of their 90lb watercolor paper that is sized and behaves totally different than the cotton paper. I love the cotton paper, it reminds me of arches, and I can afford it! Try out their other paper before totally writing them off, I think the 90lb sized version would suite ya better!
A very nice review. Being more inclined to paint wet into wet, I may want to give this paper a shot. I am curious, and maybe it's covered in your other video, I will have to go back to it and see, as to the amount of pilling you had from your scrubbing. I really enjoy your reviews and get a lot from them.
Oh, thank you. The Bee Journal paper. You had a lot of trouble with lifting and had to do significant scrubbing. I was wondering how well it handled the punishment.
Struggles aside I think this is really beautiful! Also, what a bummer. Would've loved to have heard that this was a great watercolor journal. Still searching for one that I really like. Looking forward to your top 5 on that!
I actually reacted audibly while scrolling, had to stop. This is gorgeous!!!! I have gotten along well with various types of paints, charcoal, pencil, colored pencil, markers, inks, etc. Water color hates me, if it could, it would swear back at me given the vulgarity I swing its way. :) Thank you for sharing your beautiful work!
Heh, I have had the same exact experience with another art journal and came to the same conclusion (wet on wet best... although it warped the paper so I decided to use it for mostly drawing and very light watercolor from now on). I also used colored pencil over the top to help smooth some parts. Your image came out super cute in the end! Thanks for the hint about using two waterbrushes - I will have to try that!
Moleskine Art Plus - good for sketching and maybe adding a little watercolor to small areas but not big. I like the Pentalic or Strathmore watercolor journals; although I believe both are wood based paper, not cotton. (Tried to reply earlier but had an internet issue, sigh.)
I can't use any of the Bee papers {sob! I love their format!} because my style relies heavily on "pulling" pigment or ink lines. In New England wet in wet can take hours to dry, even on cellulose paper. I buy Montval cellulose paper by the roll ($30) because it is a dream to "pull" paint and ink on and it dries fairly fast. On the down side, multiple layers can be challenging because of lifting, and even some waterproof inks run. Surprisingly, the Canson XL Multimedia work well for me, too-- guess I'm a Canson gal! I think the biggest challenge is finding a good paper or 2 that plays to your strengths, fits your budget, and not chasing after perfection.
Thanks Bekki! I didn't know the Montval came in rolls, what a steal! Is it hard to flatten out? I've only ever tried Arches cut from a roll, and it was quite difficult to flatten without soaking it. I do also like using the cellulose paper when I'm wanting flowy effects - in fact, that's how I fell in love with the medium! It was the Canson XL with some good ol cheap crayolas. I love how they floated across the page.
Hey, Denise. Here's the link I found when I first started using rolls of paper. www.strathmoreartist.com/blog-reader/tips-techniques-for-flattening-rolled-paper.html Methods 1, 2, 3, and 5 work well on cellulose paper like Montval. (I most often use 3). And yes, it is very inexpensive by the roll :)
I should probly also mention that Steve Mitchell gave Montval a scathing review on Amazon. I highly recommend sampling it before buying. I can send you a couple of sheets if you dont already have some. Since I generally work ink and wash on it, it's one of my favorite papers. For full watercolor pieces I like cotton-- Lanaquarelle, Stonehenge, or Kiliminjaro.
Rebecca Page oh I have some thanks! I just hadn't seen it in a roll before. I'm curious about that review now ;) I love Kilimanjaro! I have only used 4x6s from them and can't justify more right now but I can't wait to pick up some more!
Lol, I find it kind of hilarious that I see so many of the same friendly faces jumping back and forth in the comment sections :P I know we discussed this a bit in person but I recently bought the 6x9 bee paper from Michaels and am excited to try it even more now. I loved how you learned so much about how you work by stepping out of the norm for papers with this sketchbook. I honestly don't really know if I'd like this paper a ton. I do love doing wet on wet for background washes but I think I definitely default to the wet on dry like you, then feather it out
Haha, isn't it great? I love our community :) I really love what this journal has taught me. Let me know what you think! Tiffany added that the batch she got my journal in (she got one as well) was a bit funky compared to her first two, so now we're wondering if this one was from a bad batch!
I like wet on wet but not for all purpouses, but it is my go to for backgrounds. It has a bit of a learning curve if you are not used to it,true, if you like to test if its for you,canson montval is a fun paper for that,it gives you a bit more playing time. I believe canson sells an a4 140 pound wc block for 11 euro; wont break your bank but for wet on wet practice this is fun paper. that way you wont have to spoil your arches on that,rofl. Love the cute gekko btw.
Oh!..all the problems you experienced with this paper (lifting, harsh edges etc.), is my everyday experience with painting watercolor - perhaps because I cannot afford to pay $90 for a 9x12" pad of Arches. Like you, Denise, I have had to adopt 'coping strategies' when using cheaper paper! So I am really looking forward to one day being able to afford good quality 100% cotton paper and not have to fight with it every time ;) Thanks for the review. I have seen other Bee Paper that is 100% cotton. Have you had experience apart from the art journal you reviewed here?... such as Bee Paper'a 6x9" loose sheets (50) which seems a relative bargain to the journal.
Hey Debi! Where do you live? Arches definitely shouldn't run you that much if you're in the US or somewhere Jackson's ships to. In the US, you can get a loose leaf pad for $21: amzn.to/2o3DXLB or on Jackson's they're the same price as well. I never buy them locally at art stores as you're right they can be very pricey. As for the other bee paper, I have to try the 140lb still, but I like the 90lb for practice. It's not as durable for wet on wet, but from what I remember it lifts easily.
It's nice to see you paint, I think you should make more videos like that :) Using two brushes is a great idea by the way I'll give it a try some time.
You know what's weird? The First and second journal I got was fantastic! I bought yours and my 3rd one at the same time. I thought something was off on the paper. Do u think a quality control issue?? 🤔
Oh!! Interesting. Maybe they were sized differently? I'd be curious to hear more about you experiences with the third one you got as compared to the first two. Thank you again for this lovely gift!
i have a question maybe you can answer, i bought an art-c "reusable marker" it's an empty marker with the nib type like a paint marker where you have to pick in to activate it... do you think i could use masking fluid in it?
Aww, too bad cuz I was really hoping this was going to be a great one. Have you tried the Strathmore Visual Watercolor Journals? It's supposed to be 140lb as well but I'm afraid to buy it lol.
I'm sure it would be suitable for people who just want to do light sketches with pen and ink and where lifting isn't as important. I should have said that but I was recording the audio at like midnight haha. I haven't tried the Strathmore. After using their 500 series, which I don't care for, I've been nervous to try their other products.
Thank you for the response. Watercolor books seems very challenging to find :( And by the way would love to see more speed arts from you. It's how I found your channel originally and have been hooked ever since. I've learned so much. I too also paint wet on dry. I suck at wet on wet lol. I haven't master it but I'm getting better. Thank you.
if it's any help to you, i have about 2 of the visual journal/ watercolor , and for light sketches it might work, though you will not be able to do more than 2 layers in watercolor. that's as far as it can handle. the front and back of the page has different smoothness to them. one feels dry, and the other feels silky to paint on, which is weird to describe honestly. i would not recommend it at all. they have amazing lines of paper, but the visual journal isn't one.
I have a few of the watercolor visual journals, because they were on sale & I was able to use my coupon. I use them to practice simple watercolor landscapes or to swatch new paints. However they can’t take more then 2 layers of paint so I would suggest a different kind of paper as well.
Thank you so much for this review! I had just bought the letter sized one to practice with my new Shmincke set. Now, I'm thinking it might actually be better for my Kuretake Gansaï Tambi. I had trouble using them on Canson XL as they lift so easily. Is there a big difference between the Aquabee and the Creative journal paper, do they have the same color grabbing issues?
I think I'll be trying the gansai in them too! I haven't tried the 140lb yet of the sheets, but the 90lb Aqua been is TOTALLY different. I would never think they were from the same company if you just set them in front of me. It has a mechanical texture and is very easy to lift from what I remember. I specifically know that I painted the sea turtle in my Endangered Species Paint with Me series on that paper if you want to look up that video!
Bee paper really grabs on to pigment and wont let go. Not only the journal format but also the single sheets, although not as bad. Not only does it grab on to pigment but also to masking fluid! May e not a big deal if you’re using a non colored fluid like Windsor &. Newton, but using my blue Pebeo Drawing Gum, it was a mess! The drawing gum actually stained the paper blue/grey in spots but removing it seemed to take paper with it. I used a gum pick up eraser specifically meant to remove masking fluid and it took forever. I think Bee paper is a wonderful deal, 100% cotton at an extremely affordable price. Just be aware, artists, staining colors will STAIN! And maybe use white gouache or Dr. pH Martin Bleed Proof White for your highlights instead of masking them out. Theres nothing more aggravating than spending hours on a painting then having it ruined when you remove the masking fluid!!
Thanks for this helpful video. Great job making the most of paper! The painting looks awesome. I have this brand of journal and like you I really wanted to love it. But the complete lack if sizing just didn’t work well with the techniques I use. I will try wetting it first then adding the paint and see if that works. If not it will have to become a swatch book 🙂.
i'll have to remember to use wet on wet if i want my paint to flow on this paper, since recently bought a roll of this paper ... which is a ton of oapet
Thanks for the review and heads up about the lack of workability. It looked like it was workable if you went back immediately so I guess you just have to finish an area right away if you want to soften the edges. The wet on wet at the end also looked successful, which is what I was going to suggest to see if it would be any easier. But yea, seems like a fairly standard student-mid range paper quality. Thanks for the review, I'd love to see more of these types of videos in the future, both of student and artist quality papers/journals. It'd be great if you could comment on what each paper or sketchbook does well as I often see cheaper papers lambasted for heavy watercolor when, at least imo, you can still make nice art, but you cannot do a full range of techniques or reworking. Thanks again! :-)
Hi Paul! Have you seen my ultimate watercolor paper comparison? It's not the same format, but rather methodical testing of a ton of different types of paper. The link is in the description! As for this paper, it's definitely artist grade. It's 100% cotton and I'd definitely not call it student paper, but it is either lightly sized or unsized (I'm not sure which, probably lightly) which is just a different type of surface than I'm used to. I'll have more info on that in a Hahnemuehle video in the next couple of weeks :)
Ah, yes, I forgot about that video! Thanks for the reminder! :-). I didn't realize it was 100% cotton, that's pretty exciting given the price point. Sounds and looks better than canson xl, at least in terms of durability. I'm looking forward to today's video! :-) Cheers.
Such a shame about the paper: Love the format and all the other features, but not being able to 'work' the paint is kind of a show stopper for me. Thank you for reviewing this book.
It's probably great for liftable paints like Kuretake (I need to try that!) or if you just do light washes. But I'm a glazer at heart :) I need to be able to work my paint as well.
Now I know not to get this book! I don't like being unable to work on both sides of the paper, and watercolor smudges are annoying as well. I've had a weird experience with their 6x9 140lb cotton sheets, it made a weird watermark at the edge of a wet-then-dry area, that wouldn't go away even if I covered it with more paint. I really need to experiment with more papers to find one I like :|
Oh interesting!! You know, I got some of those sheets for Christmas which I'm just realizing now are hiding in some bag somewhere from the holidays that I never unpacked! I should go find out where that is ;)
This painting turned out beautifully! I really like the 90 lb paper too, so I'm a little bummed to hear that this one gave you some trouble. I'm still tempted to try it out though. I'll have to check out your top journal video when it's up ;3
Hello, and thank you! I came across your channel earlier this week and absolutely love your videos! This paper doesn't suit my needs super well, but I think it would be great for wet on wet or simple washes with ink or something of the like. I'll be sure to comment on that on Friday :)
I too am happy to see more of yr work. After I made a playlist of all your reviews and learning all I can on mixing, I searched for your art. But alas didn't find much. Your research abilities are superior and that's why companies seek you out. i can say this because I have that same attention to detail and was in great demand in my field. Burn out got to me. That's why I left a 30-year career in psychology to become the artist I always wanted to be. Paint for yourself first and that joy naturally flows to bless others.
Thank you Nancy! My artwork can be found on my website at www.denisesoden.com or on Instagram @inliquidcolor. Thanks for your support!
Thsnk you. will visit.
i love your work!!! The evil looking peacock and the hippocampus are the striking. I love the Cheshire cat. Also the white cat: Is that Cricket?
I just love to watch your videos where you talk about different materials/tools and paint. It’s soooo captivating to hear you talk as I watch your painting growing from a blank page. I learn a lot😀
I just used their 140lb 100% cotton paper last night and also commented about how incredibly soft and flexible the paper is. I could soak both sides and curl it up and then lay it flat again - which I can't really do with any of my other papers. I decided it must have less sizing and was also "thirsty" and dries quite fast. I'm glad to see you seem to agree with that.
I did feel like I was able to do much better wet on wet techniques with the paper than I've been able to do with any other paper, so I'm hoping even if I don't like this for wet on dry I can use it to really focus on improving my wet on wet! I'm still learning to work with my Da Vinci paints which lift so much easier (read: when I don't want them to) than my M. Graham, so I also appreciated that this paper may help me transition to working more with them.
One other thing I noted was that while the back of the pages were much smoother, almost close to hot press, they painted similarly. The only difference I noticed was that the back side seemed to dry much slower than the front sides and did seem to lift a little easier.
Thanks so much for adding to the discussion! Valuable information :)
I love the way your painting turned out. I think I would like this journal because I tend to love figuring out work arounds. I’ve used the 140lb 6x9 and used it wet on wet, I was extremely impressed at how bright my colors were when it dried.
Thanks so much! And I'm glad to hear about the 6x9s :) Eager to try those out!
I just found Bee Journals available again after being discontinued over covid and it brought me back to this video. It's funny that the things you didn't like about it are why I love it (the wetting paper first technique, how it holds the colour). It explains why I struggle with some other papers though, my technique is backwards haha.
Despite your difficulty with the paper, I still really like the result of the painting you made. I can't stop staring at the chameleon's face and its translucent-looking hand.
fufufuaru thank you so much! I do like how he turned out :)
That chameleon looked so nice! Wouldn't even know you struggled with the paper from the finished painting! ❤️
Thank you Grace!
Struggling with something isnt necessarily a bad thing in art.
Your reviews are always so helpful. You are my favorite TH-cam subscription!
Thank you so much JoAnne! That means so much to me!
Yes! I have had the exact same experience with Bee paper. Just recently, I was trying to paint a rose with some rather staining pigments and kept forgetting to wet the petal first! I wanted to feather with water as you mentioned after laying a line at the edge. I kept getting lines that wouldn't budge and bleed and then had to glaze over it to try to hide it! So funny and reassuring to have you put my struggles into words. When struggling, it's so easy to start doubting your own abilities. Thanks for the review and confidence boost! I still loved your painting in the end!
Thank you Kate! I'm sorry it gave you so much trouble as well! But I'm also glad not to be the only one with this experience.
this review actually made me want to go out & buy this paper lol! the dried paint strokes that are well defined give it a very beautiful watercolor look. lots of character. im not a huge fan when everything blends together & i always do wet on wet when I need it to, it's all a preference thing. this is probably one of my favorite pieces from you :) keep up the good work!!
Thank you Bella! I'm so glad you liked it and that the review was helpful. I definitely don't want to discourage anyone from this journal if it fits their painting style!
I can’t believe I haven’t found your channel yet! I love your work and your videos. Can’t wait to see many more
Aw thank you so much Mary, and welcome!
Yes! I did notice last year you weren't sharing that much of your art and it makes me really happy to having it back more frequently!
Daniel Morales that makes me so happy!
1:26 I perked right up because I use this paper for quick sketches. 6x9 cotton. It looks like it's very absorbent, too much maybe? Yes more art, Yay! Maybe a wash of gum arabic over this before working on it would be good, but who wants to do that each time? Doesn't leave much room for error. Not terrible paper, but it's good to know it's strengths and weaknesses. Thanks so much!
I did one picture on a new Bee Journal and liked it a lot, but it is an odd style i used--rather blotchy and opaque actually. Wondering now if it might be nice with opaque watercolor/gauche. I'm going to pull out my little set and experiment. I don't usually work like this, so there is that. I did notice a few things you mention.
It's a beautiful depiction. So well done!
I’ve mentioned it before, but the bee creative watercolor journal is probably my favorite paper right now! Hilariously, a lot of the things you talk about here-like lifting and sizing and whatnot-are things that I talked about in my holbein video today (including the fact that I almost never lift or scrub) so it’s possible that I prefer it because of my painting style (which does include a lot of wet on wet. =>.
Meow Meow Kapow haha I know! I just finished watching your video. We're so on the same wave length! This paper did do wet on wet beautifully, and I'm sure it would suit that style well :)
In Liquid Color lol, we’re getting stuck in a loop! Saying “I just said that over there!” Back and forth to each other endlessly! =>.
Lol, " art detective department", your right, It the best at that too! I'm so glad she did all the work she has done, it truly is priceless! But I have to agree, I would love to see more of her artwork in action.
Have had mine for about a month now and enjoying using it for mixed media art. Enjoyed your video as usual. Thanks Denise.
It's strange. I have the watercolour journal also and the packaging label says it has 25% paper. I see on Amazon that it is now labeled as 100% cotton. Not sure if we are using the same paper. I'll be making a video for this too. The paper is just not good. In short, the colours don't move after they are on paper, so wet on wet techniques are almost impossible.
I think someone had mentioned they have two different types of paper, one with 25% and one with 100%, but I cannot find anything on that now. Do you happen to remember what color the text on the cover sleeve was? Was it blue?
In Liquid Color Amazon mislabeled it as 100% cotton instead of 25%. Saw it. They need to fix the wrong info!
Richie Ray the packing it came with from the manufacturer says 100%
I got the white nights watercolors for Christmas and I was so excited! The first thing I used them on is this bee paper sketchbook and had all the same problems you did and was really bummed. Then I tried them on Fabriano paper...and had all the same problems. I'm so frustrated. So now I don't know if it's the papers or the paints. I'm going to try them on more papers. Have you had this same problem with Fabriano paper? You seemed to like the white nights so I don't know if it is the paints or not. Maybe I'm doing something wrong.
gosh i am such a newbie but this video made me realise that possibly some of my issues when i try to do things have to do with the supplies i use... rip... specifically i got a w&n watercolor marker, and when i tested it in the store i could wash out the harsh marker line completely with water, but i haven't been able to at home. i am now realising it must have been that the art store had the right paper... lol. story time over, regarding your comments about your channel content i want to give you some feedback! i absolutely love seeing and hearing artists' personal processes, preferences and so on, so i really enjoyed this video from you. i'm also glad to hear that you're thinking about what makes you happy and what you want to do here! i'm just grateful that there's all this amazing stuff artists are sharing and making available for free, tbh. technical stuff is really useful when you're trying to learn, but seeing other aspects of someone's creations can also be. both like me with the paper just now, but also in a more general sense that sharing your creativity with others generally produces more of it for everyone. it's a unique commodity in that sense. :) this is a really long comment now so i'll stop myself, tl;dr thanks for sharing!
Supplies aren't everything, but they can definitely make your life harder or easier! I'm not familiar with the markers so I can't help there, but Canson XL is a really liftable paper, maybe a little too much so, but if you're working with staining colors it may be a good place to start! Thank you so much for your kind words about my channel and artwork! It means so much to have you guys backing me up as I've been a bit nervous to drive back into art videos after doing reviews for so long.
Pixie, everything you said resonated with me :)
I use the Super Delux mixed media. which has 150gsm paper in it. I really love the paper. It's not as heavy as the watercolor - But I use it for my practice journal -- which has everything from notes to finished pieces.
I love the chameleon! Good to know about the workability issue on this paper!
Thanks Delores!
Oh my gosh! I wish I would have watched this earlier! I basically started my watercolor journey with Bee Paper, using their 140 lb 100% cotton 6x9 sheets, the 25% cotton 8x8 watercolor journal, and now I'm just breaking in my 100% cotton 8x8 watercolor journal, so until recently, it's been all I've known. There are several techniques that you mentioned having trouble with that I have also had trouble with, but figured I was just "bad at". Now I'm suspecting that maybe I ought to try a different 100% cotton paper and see if my technical skills can progress with a more agreeable paper!
Happy Valentines Day! I love your art work video's so I'll be happy to see more of them. I love all the video's you do, I know so much more about paints and products from you, you have saved me a lot of money and frustration, you have also caused me to purchase cool new things I didn't really HAVE to have but I guess the savings from purchasing wasteful items balances out :)
Thank you Colleen! Happy Valentines to you as well!
Great vid. I had no idea that lifting properties were so important. It was nice to see a live example of a problem instead of it being described in a book or blog. I doubt I would have realized, on my own, how much it could effect your technique. Right now I use Fabriano Artistico 140lb. paper and paint lifts from it just fine. But I'll definitely be testing for that when I buy paper in the future. As my Mom used to say. Thanks loads! 😁
I didn't fully realize either! I actually have to eat my words from my earlier paper review saying I didn't think about doing lifting tests because its not as important to me. I didn't realize that my painting style incorporated the technique as a fluid process!
In Liquid Color Life is a learning process, according to a fortune cookie I got once.
Hi. Have you ever thought about doing a vid on your least favourite or art supplies to avoid. It might be interesting or at least helpful for those who are inexperienced and still near the beginning of our watercolour journey. Also an interesting follow-up to your top 5 series and end it with a "low" 5. Thanks for this vid, interesting to hear your thought process in evaluation.
Hi Johnny, while I realize that that information may be helpful, I try to keep my videos as positive as I can as I don't want to slander any hard working companies just because I don't like a product. However, regular viewers of the channel have picked up on products or colors that I am not a fan of (e.g. Winsor & Newton Watercolors, Strathmore 500 Paper, Mission Gold's Yellow Ochre), and I'm always happy to answer direct questions honestly.
In Liquid Color No problems, understood. I was just teaching my students today the answer to all questions is "Yes, sure, of course I can." ...😊 If I need to, I will ask directly knowing that you will do your best and be honest. Most companies get something wrong once in a while...I don't like Mijello's Brown Ochre, but really love their Autumn Orange and Greenish-blue. BTW, you have a very pleasant voice which adds to the unique charm and appeal of your vids. Thank you for your reply. 👍
Sorry I simply must comment we have to make the YT algorithm do its job! I do not use journals anymore, I take a watercolor block with me if I travel i would like to say I find your artwork AMAZING! You know this because I have cracked open the wallet and I own some of your original work! Lovely video and we expect nothing less from you! DO you ever just slack off? I hope to find that video, if you have left it online!
Bee company has some great mixed media paper. Also I just purchased a huge roll of their 90lb watercolor paper that is sized and behaves totally different than the cotton paper. I love the cotton paper, it reminds me of arches, and I can afford it! Try out their other paper before totally writing them off, I think the 90lb sized version would suite ya better!
I have and like the 90lb paper quite a bit for sketches :) Definitely not writing them off as I learned quite a lot from this experience.
Really enjoyed this and look forward to seeing more painting videos from you this year!
Christine Rose thanks so much!!
Gonna have to try this double brush technique!!
A very nice review. Being more inclined to paint wet into wet, I may want to give this paper a shot. I am curious, and maybe it's covered in your other video, I will have to go back to it and see, as to the amount of pilling you had from your scrubbing. I really enjoy your reviews and get a lot from them.
Thanks Laura. Which paper did you want to know about the pilling on?
Oh, thank you. The Bee Journal paper. You had a lot of trouble with lifting and had to do significant scrubbing. I was wondering how well it handled the punishment.
It held up pretty well, its just the paint didn't want to move :)
You saved me from buying this, Ty! Can't wait for some step-by-step videos. I really like watching you paint, but need to learn!
Wow, loved your result! Thank you for the review.
Gorgeous!
You paint very well
Love your page!!!!! Love your animals!!!
Thanks Kay!!
Completely unfamiliar with this product/company. Will definitely look into, as I love how the painting cam out here. Thank you, as always! Cheers! :)
Thanks Mark!
Struggles aside I think this is really beautiful! Also, what a bummer. Would've loved to have heard that this was a great watercolor journal. Still searching for one that I really like. Looking forward to your top 5 on that!
Thanks Raven! There are other artists like Kat from Meow Meow Kapow that love this one! So it just depends on your style of painting :)
I actually reacted audibly while scrolling, had to stop. This is gorgeous!!!! I have gotten along well with various types of paints, charcoal, pencil, colored pencil, markers, inks, etc. Water color hates me, if it could, it would swear back at me given the vulgarity I swing its way. :) Thank you for sharing your beautiful work!
Heh, I have had the same exact experience with another art journal and came to the same conclusion (wet on wet best... although it warped the paper so I decided to use it for mostly drawing and very light watercolor from now on). I also used colored pencil over the top to help smooth some parts. Your image came out super cute in the end! Thanks for the hint about using two waterbrushes - I will have to try that!
Thanks Mary! I'm glad it was helpful. Which journal gave you the same experience?
Moleskine Art Plus - good for sketching and maybe adding a little watercolor to small areas but not big. I like the Pentalic or Strathmore watercolor journals; although I believe both are wood based paper, not cotton. (Tried to reply earlier but had an internet issue, sigh.)
AH okay! I haven't heard good things about Moleskine for watercolors :(
nice work~! thank you.
I can't use any of the Bee papers {sob! I love their format!} because my style relies heavily on "pulling" pigment or ink lines. In New England wet in wet can take hours to dry, even on cellulose paper. I buy Montval cellulose paper by the roll ($30) because it is a dream to "pull" paint and ink on and it dries fairly fast. On the down side, multiple layers can be challenging because of lifting, and even some waterproof inks run. Surprisingly, the Canson XL Multimedia work well for me, too-- guess I'm a Canson gal! I think the biggest challenge is finding a good paper or 2 that plays to your strengths, fits your budget, and not chasing after perfection.
Thanks Bekki! I didn't know the Montval came in rolls, what a steal! Is it hard to flatten out? I've only ever tried Arches cut from a roll, and it was quite difficult to flatten without soaking it. I do also like using the cellulose paper when I'm wanting flowy effects - in fact, that's how I fell in love with the medium! It was the Canson XL with some good ol cheap crayolas. I love how they floated across the page.
Hey, Denise. Here's the link I found when I first started using rolls of paper. www.strathmoreartist.com/blog-reader/tips-techniques-for-flattening-rolled-paper.html Methods 1, 2, 3, and 5 work well on cellulose paper like Montval. (I most often use 3). And yes, it is very inexpensive by the roll :)
I should probly also mention that Steve Mitchell gave Montval a scathing review on Amazon. I highly recommend sampling it before buying. I can send you a couple of sheets if you dont already have some. Since I generally work ink and wash on it, it's one of my favorite papers. For full watercolor pieces I like cotton-- Lanaquarelle, Stonehenge, or Kiliminjaro.
Rebecca Page oh I have some thanks! I just hadn't seen it in a roll before. I'm curious about that review now ;) I love Kilimanjaro! I have only used 4x6s from them and can't justify more right now but I can't wait to pick up some more!
Love this painting!
Thank yo uso much Antonea!
Thanks for that! Good tip to keep in mind.
I would really love to see more videos of you making art ^^
Lol, I find it kind of hilarious that I see so many of the same friendly faces jumping back and forth in the comment sections :P
I know we discussed this a bit in person but I recently bought the 6x9 bee paper from Michaels and am excited to try it even more now. I loved how you learned so much about how you work by stepping out of the norm for papers with this sketchbook. I honestly don't really know if I'd like this paper a ton. I do love doing wet on wet for background washes but I think I definitely default to the wet on dry like you, then feather it out
Haha, isn't it great? I love our community :) I really love what this journal has taught me. Let me know what you think! Tiffany added that the batch she got my journal in (she got one as well) was a bit funky compared to her first two, so now we're wondering if this one was from a bad batch!
I like wet on wet but not for all purpouses, but it is my go to for backgrounds. It has a bit of a learning curve if you are not used to it,true, if you like to test if its for you,canson montval is a fun paper for that,it gives you a bit more playing time. I believe canson sells an a4 140 pound wc block for 11 euro; wont break your bank but for wet on wet practice this is fun paper. that way you wont have to spoil your arches on that,rofl. Love the cute gekko btw.
Thank you :)
Oh!..all the problems you experienced with this paper (lifting, harsh edges etc.), is my everyday experience with painting watercolor - perhaps because I cannot afford to pay $90 for a 9x12" pad of Arches. Like you, Denise, I have had to adopt 'coping strategies' when using cheaper paper! So I am really looking forward to one day being able to afford good quality 100% cotton paper and not have to fight with it every time ;)
Thanks for the review. I have seen other Bee Paper that is 100% cotton. Have you had experience apart from the art journal you reviewed here?... such as Bee Paper'a 6x9" loose sheets (50) which seems a relative bargain to the journal.
Hey Debi! Where do you live? Arches definitely shouldn't run you that much if you're in the US or somewhere Jackson's ships to. In the US, you can get a loose leaf pad for $21: amzn.to/2o3DXLB or on Jackson's they're the same price as well. I never buy them locally at art stores as you're right they can be very pricey. As for the other bee paper, I have to try the 140lb still, but I like the 90lb for practice. It's not as durable for wet on wet, but from what I remember it lifts easily.
It's nice to see you paint, I think you should make more videos like that :) Using two brushes is a great idea by the way I'll give it a try some time.
Hello! It's good to see you again :) Thanks so much for the kind words.
You know what's weird? The First and second journal I got was fantastic! I bought yours and my 3rd one at the same time. I thought something was off on the paper. Do u think a quality control issue?? 🤔
Oh!! Interesting. Maybe they were sized differently? I'd be curious to hear more about you experiences with the third one you got as compared to the first two. Thank you again for this lovely gift!
In Liquid Color :: You are so welcome. 😚I will keep you posted as I continue to use it! 🤗 Gosh, your eye page is fantastic!!
what is the brand of your brushes ? thx in advance
i have a question maybe you can answer, i bought an art-c "reusable marker" it's an empty marker with the nib type like a paint marker where you have to pick in to activate it... do you think i could use masking fluid in it?
I'm sorry I don't have any experience with those products.
You sure are beeing creative!
Edit:Love your artwork!!!😙😙
Aww, too bad cuz I was really hoping this was going to be a great one. Have you tried the
Strathmore Visual Watercolor Journals? It's supposed to be 140lb as well but I'm afraid to buy it lol.
I'm sure it would be suitable for people who just want to do light sketches with pen and ink and where lifting isn't as important. I should have said that but I was recording the audio at like midnight haha. I haven't tried the Strathmore. After using their 500 series, which I don't care for, I've been nervous to try their other products.
Thank you for the response. Watercolor books seems very challenging to find :( And by the way would love to see more speed arts from you. It's how I found your channel originally and have been hooked ever since. I've learned so much. I too also paint wet on dry. I suck at wet on wet lol. I haven't master it but I'm getting better. Thank you.
Thank you so much! I can't wait to share more are with you all this year, and I'm so happy to hear that's how you found me :)
if it's any help to you, i have about 2 of the visual journal/ watercolor , and for light sketches it might work, though you will not be able to do more than 2 layers in watercolor. that's as far as it can handle. the front and back of the page has different smoothness to them. one feels dry, and the other feels silky to paint on, which is weird to describe honestly. i would not recommend it at all. they have amazing lines of paper, but the visual journal isn't one.
I have a few of the watercolor visual journals, because they were on sale & I was able to use my coupon. I use them to practice simple watercolor landscapes or to swatch new paints.
However they can’t take more then 2 layers of paint so I would suggest a different kind of paper as well.
Thank you so much for this review! I had just bought the letter sized one to practice with my new Shmincke set. Now, I'm thinking it might actually be better for my Kuretake Gansaï Tambi. I had trouble using them on Canson XL as they lift so easily. Is there a big difference between the Aquabee and the Creative journal paper, do they have the same color grabbing issues?
I think I'll be trying the gansai in them too! I haven't tried the 140lb yet of the sheets, but the 90lb Aqua been is TOTALLY different. I would never think they were from the same company if you just set them in front of me. It has a mechanical texture and is very easy to lift from what I remember. I specifically know that I painted the sea turtle in my Endangered Species Paint with Me series on that paper if you want to look up that video!
Thank you! I'll go watch it! I have a pack of the 140lb Aquabee. Time to make some tests and compare :D
it was so much fun to watch ☺
Where do you find the clear tubular paintbrush?
Hi Patti. I have a link in the description to my Amazon shop. They're in there. They're called water brushes.
Is this the journal that has 100% cotton? I know they have them in diff percentages
Bee paper really grabs on to pigment and wont let go. Not only the journal format but also the single sheets, although not as bad. Not only does it grab on to pigment but also to masking fluid! May e not a big deal if you’re using a non colored fluid like Windsor &. Newton, but using my blue Pebeo Drawing Gum, it was a mess! The drawing gum actually stained the paper blue/grey in spots but removing it seemed to take paper with it. I used a gum pick up eraser specifically meant to remove masking fluid and it took forever. I think Bee paper is a wonderful deal, 100% cotton at an extremely affordable price. Just be aware, artists, staining colors will STAIN! And maybe use white gouache or Dr. pH Martin Bleed Proof White for your highlights instead of masking them out. Theres nothing more aggravating than spending hours on a painting then having it ruined when you remove the masking fluid!!
I agree! I got the blue masking fluid recently and haven't found many papers that ARE agreeable with it :(
Thanks for this helpful video. Great job making the most of paper! The painting looks awesome. I have this brand of journal and like you I really wanted to love it. But the complete lack if sizing just didn’t work well with the techniques I use. I will try wetting it first then adding the paint and see if that works. If not it will have to become a swatch book 🙂.
i'll have to remember to use wet on wet if i want my paint to flow on this paper, since recently bought a roll of this paper ... which is a ton of oapet
Bee sells rolls??
wow that's not what it was suppose to say bee paper not bee seels rolls whatever that means
oh well i will try it and let you know if the masking fluid works in the empty paint like marker lol
Thanks for the review and heads up about the lack of workability. It looked like it was workable if you went back immediately so I guess you just have to finish an area right away if you want to soften the edges. The wet on wet at the end also looked successful, which is what I was going to suggest to see if it would be any easier. But yea, seems like a fairly standard student-mid range paper quality.
Thanks for the review, I'd love to see more of these types of videos in the future, both of student and artist quality papers/journals. It'd be great if you could comment on what each paper or sketchbook does well as I often see cheaper papers lambasted for heavy watercolor when, at least imo, you can still make nice art, but you cannot do a full range of techniques or reworking. Thanks again! :-)
Hi Paul! Have you seen my ultimate watercolor paper comparison? It's not the same format, but rather methodical testing of a ton of different types of paper. The link is in the description! As for this paper, it's definitely artist grade. It's 100% cotton and I'd definitely not call it student paper, but it is either lightly sized or unsized (I'm not sure which, probably lightly) which is just a different type of surface than I'm used to. I'll have more info on that in a Hahnemuehle video in the next couple of weeks :)
Ah, yes, I forgot about that video! Thanks for the reminder! :-). I didn't realize it was 100% cotton, that's pretty exciting given the price point. Sounds and looks better than canson xl, at least in terms of durability. I'm looking forward to today's video! :-) Cheers.
Such a shame about the paper: Love the format and all the other features, but not being able to 'work' the paint is kind of a show stopper for me. Thank you for reviewing this book.
It's probably great for liftable paints like Kuretake (I need to try that!) or if you just do light washes. But I'm a glazer at heart :) I need to be able to work my paint as well.
I thought bee was a canadian company, but i think you are right.
The back of the book showed an imprint from Beaverton, Oregon.
Yep, from what I found it's US based :)
Now I know not to get this book! I don't like being unable to work on both sides of the paper, and watercolor smudges are annoying as well. I've had a weird experience with their 6x9 140lb cotton sheets, it made a weird watermark at the edge of a wet-then-dry area, that wouldn't go away even if I covered it with more paint. I really need to experiment with more papers to find one I like :|
Oh interesting!! You know, I got some of those sheets for Christmas which I'm just realizing now are hiding in some bag somewhere from the holidays that I never unpacked! I should go find out where that is ;)
Finally, a 100% cotton paper in a sketch book! Too bad it is not very satisfactory
who cares who's first ----not me, it'silly.
LOL
I can tell from your demonstration that this paper would not suit my technique. I like papers that don’t fight me.
Glad it was helpful one way or another!