Questions

The next question is what watercolor paper I use and why I pick it. I use Fabriano Artistico Watercolor paper both Hot Press and Cold Press. I have used others in the past, but never with the same wonderful results. I got the tip of this brand from Sweet and Sassy's Anna. Now as for the differences. Fabriano is famous throughout the world for its paper. It has been making fine papers for over seven centuries. I use the Artistico line 140 lbs paper Blocks. This weight allows you to still be able to cut out easily, but is heavy enough to resist buckling. Hot Press Watercolor paper is ultra smooth and velvety. It is perfect for detailed stamps. The color just flows on beautifully. The only thing to keep in mind is that you must work quickly with Hot Press because the color will sink in quickly. It is also less resistant to pile. In other words, the more you work an area, the more you will fray the paper. If you keep this in mind, the results will be unparalleled. The other one I use on occasion is Cold Press. Cold Press is a much rougher surface. You will see the bumps on it. It does not do well with high detail, but has other compensations. You can work an area more, and the color will stay on top and be workable for longer. I find that the cold press is also the ideal for watercolor marker work as the ink sits on top and is more movable for longer. Often if you use marker on Hot Press, by the time you recap the marker, the ink has already become almost unmovable. The best place to buy is Dick Blick. They seem to have the best price.
Next Question was about Watercolor Markers. Which ones are the best for the technique that I highlight. I have only worked with three types. Tombow, SU and Marvy. In my experience, the best were Tombow and SU with the best marks going to SU for its ability to blend and move. Tombow is by no means bad, I just find that it does not move across the paper quite as well. The difference though is minimal. The best place to get Tombow is Jerry's Artarama. They have a great price with discounts for bulk ordering. The other great place is Frantic Stamper.

Next is: What Are Twinkling H2O's? Twinkling H2O's are a sparkling water based paint. They are filled with Mica particles that make them twinkle and shine. They come in an array of colors ( my last count was 156 colors). They are used in identical fashion as watercolor paints. They last a very long time ( all mine are in the 5gm sizes) and they will dry on a variety of surface ie. wood, paper, canvas, rocks, Easter eggs to name a few. They blend very well, can be used with mixed media ( so you can add highlights to paper pencil work), and they can be used direct to rubber. They are truly a wonderful medium to work with. I purchase mine from Frantic Stamper.