Preparing paper for drawing

I like to draw on paper which has already been prepared particularly for life drawing. I also use it for many simple line drawings. The reason behind doing this, is that I like to put some energy and movement into the paper first. This seems to aid me when I am then actually drawing using charcoal or pastels on top.

Pastel on prepared paper

To start I use gesso or match pots of old emulsion paint. You can use watered down acrylic paint. It is not an exact science! I use a large brush and often a 1" normal emulsion brush. You could also use a scraper for a flatter feel. For me it is important to put the paint on in rounded strokes.

I like to use newspaper ink and text using a reverse print method. I place the newspaper in wet paint and then remove it after a short time period. I find my best results are when only a small part of the ink is in the paint. Sometimes there can be more newspaper left behind. Another important point is not to leave any lines or edges - I tend to rip the paper edges first. Also I tend to put the paper on a diagonal or upside down so that the newspaper is not too obvious.

I have included some photos of the different steps with comments:-

Apply paint with a big brush. Put movement in.

I like to play music while I work, it is quite therapeutic especially as there is no pressure on the result! 

Put a piece of ripped paper on the page.

How long to leave the paper requires some experimentation. Typically 30 seconds to a minute but could be longer depending on paint consistency.

Pull off the paper before too much has stuck on.

Here there is a bit too much paper left

Another example, you can see the ink in the brush marks.

A piece of paper ready for work.

You may find you need to flatten the paper afterwards. I use 200g drawing paper, the thicker the better.

Have a go and experiment. If you need further information drop me an email.

Here's the pastel drawing I finished off at life drawing class.

Golden backed nude

To keep it simple, you can just do the painting (stage 1) without newspaper as it can provide a wonderful feel for a charcoal life drawing on top. See example below.