Yupo provides an unusual surface for watercolor painting.
Yupo watercolor paper isn't paper at all. It's actually a synthetic product made of polypropylene. The surface is strong, waterproof and stain resistant. Unlike traditional watercolor paper, Yupo doesn't need to be stretched. The sturdy, nonabsorbent sheet also lends itself to techniques that would strain other watercolor grounds, possibly causing tearing or other damage.
Instructions
1. Clean the Yupo surface with soap and water to remove grease and fingerprints. Tape the sheet to a drawing board.
2. Draw preliminary guidelines lightly with a pencil. Brush on diluted watercolors. Tilt the board to allow wet paint to flow and mingle. When the paint is wet, it can be wiped off completely. Partially dried paint can be lifted to any degree with paper towels. Dried paint can be scrubbed with a bristle brush to create soft-edged spots.
3. Cut sponges to useful shapes. Thicker watercolor can be dabbed on with sponges or applied with palette knives. Add textures by blotting the wet paint with sponges, crumpled plastic wrap, paper towels or paint rollers. Sprinkle wet paint with salt and allow to dry. Gently brush off salt to reveal the unusual textures left in the paint.
4. Add multiple layers of color, allowing each level to dry completely before painting on top.
