Club Meeting: 5 March 2025
Report by: Graeme Mackay

Emma’s demonstration came through with a new approach to embellishing, with the use of a 3D raindrop effect and water based Suminagashi colouring technique. A bright introduction to the options of marbling. Emma’s demonstration and illustration of methodologies was cheerful and well presented, providing an easy view of how to get into the subject of embellishment through marbling and colour.

Key features of these embellishments:

• 3D water effect that requires a flat surface.
• A black painted surface on the lathed areas.
• Preference for spray-painted black base.
• Preference for acrylic based paint.
• Starting preference on the complimentary colours to be used.
• Clear contrasting areas dark and light.
• Use of colour wheel.
• Practise and experiment on water delivery and your application styles i.e. pipette.
• Awareness for drying times and requirements/equipment needed.

Illustration an example was given to encourage new entrants to conduct regular experiments. Also, use and record a trial and error approach on waste blocks etc. Emma noted that there were many ways to initiate and start the marbling embellishment process. And, there is a lot of fun in exploration.

Traditional Marbling.

Emma outlined the basics of paint on water marbling with an emphasis on colour choice. This approach is matched to the characteristics of paint material. An excellent introduction to the beginning marbling and highlighting of key points:

• Appropriate liquid base, Emma used Carrageenan.
• Appropriate colour variations and selection.
• Emphasis on method of alum application.
• Introduction to the basics of the mordant process.

Each section was given tips and directions i.e. use of a colour chart, working on complimentary colours, avoiding air pockets, and recording the style of application. It was interesting in that some topics appeared on a regular basis:

• Experimentation
• Trial
• Method variations tested.

Emma had an excellent approach to finishing the base product: surface presentation is essential. Working to the standard sandpaper grades is a normal process.
And remember: marbling shows up all the faults!