Straightening a crumbled watercolor painting

A watercolour painting of simplified orange tulips with green leaves and stems by Mervi Emilia Eskelinen

A tip for all of my fellow amateur aquarelle artists: If the paper gets all crumbled because of the wetness of watercolours, iron it straighter. Yes, with that iron you would use for your shirt. Try first on a less significant painting if unsure. You won't be likely to get the paper as straight as before applying the paint and water.

  • I'd recommend letting the paint to dry first. You may try otherwise for effects.
  • Iron on a hard surface, such as a table, instead of the ironing board.
  • Use low temperature. There's no need to burn the paper.
  • Don't use steam.
  • Iron the backside of the paper. Not the painted side, that is.
  • Lay some paper tissues under the painting since it may sweat.
  • Check the painting several times during the process.

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Mervi Eskelinen

Hello,
I'm Mervi Eskelinen!

An artist, nerd and sorcerer, dedicated to make world softer and better for everyone, and to get you to make more art. Make art, change the world!