Guides

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What are the primary colours in the Winsor & Newton Oil Colour range?

Discover the essential primary colours for mixing in Winsor & Newton's oil colour ranges. Our guide covers the three and six colour systems of each range plus explores a perfect...

Oiling Out: How to restore depth and colour to your oil paintings

Oil painting can sometimes feel intimidating, with many rules and best practices to remember. Yet, there are also simple techniques that help correct common issues—and oiling out is one of...

Why has hand grinding pigments become less common in the manufacturing of colours?

Up until the late 18th century, hand grinding was the principal method of making artists’ colours. Skilled workers would use a shear/slide method with a stone muller and flat slab...

Why does Winsor & Newton refer to colour bias rather than Munsell ratings?

From time to time we are asked for an exact numbering system or chart regarding each of our colour's positions on a colour wheel, such as the Munsell system.

What are the origins and meanings of Quinacridone and Phthalo?

Quinacridones are a very important group of pigments which originated in the 1950's.  The first quinacridones were introduced by Winsor & Newton as Permanent Rose and Permanent Magenta.  With their...

What is the difference between hot press and cold press paper? 

The smoothest surface is hot press, which is best for scientific, detailed and hyper-realistic work, whereas cold press has a more textured surface and is great for effects like granulation and texture.

What happens if watercolour paper fails to stretch?

If the paper fails to stretch you can reuse it by cutting it off the board and going through the soaking and stretching process again. There are four faults that...

What is the best watercolour paper for stretching on a flat board?

Acid-free paper is the best paper to use if you want your work to last a long time. This is because acidity embrittles the paper and eventually makes it too...

How to stretch watercolour paper

There are two effective ways to stretch your watercolour paper; stretching on a flat board and stretching on a purpose-made frame.

Do I need to stretch watercolour paper?

Stretching your watercolour paper before painting allows you the creative freedom to use as much water as you want, whenever you want. To avoid unsightly cockling – the wrinkling and ridging of...

What is the best brush when using Art Masking Fluid?

It’s better to use low-priced or old brushes if possible. If fine lines are required, a goose quill is ideal and for larger areas you can try a colour shaper...