Description

Daniel Smith Watercolour Ground creates a soft, absorbent watercolour surface with a slightly cottony texture that’s similar to cold press paper. Daniel Smith Watercolour Ground can get this unique visual quality on any surface.
Wood & Plaster
Canvas & Masonite
All types of paper
Fabric
Glass & Plexiglass
Metal
Plastic
Stone & Masonry

Daniel Smith Watercolour Ground is a versatile, archival, and acid-free acrylic primer used to transform almost any surface—such as wood, metal, glass, plastic, and canvas—into an absorbent, textured, watercolour-friendly substrate. It allows artists to paint with watercolours on non-traditional materials, repair damaged paper, and create unique mixed-media effects.

Key Uses and Applications of Daniel Smith Watercolour Ground:

• Surface Transformation: Allows watercolour, gouache, and thin acrylic painting on surfaces beyond paper, including wood panels, plaster, masonry, fabric, and ceramic.
• Repairing Paintings: Used to cover mistakes, such as staining or damaged areas of paper, providing a fresh, printable surface.
• Creating Texture: Creates a soft, absorbent, slightly textured surface similar to cold-press paper.
• Mixed Media: Ideal for combining watercolours with pastel, pencil, or collage, as the ground creates a sturdy, absorbent base.
• Special Effects: Available in colours like Transparent, Pearlescent White, Black, and Gold, allowing for unique coloured backgrounds and luminous, pearlescent effects.

Key Features and Application Tips:

• Adhesion: It adheres to non-absorbent surfaces like metal or glass, though these should be lightly scuffed with sandpaper first.
• Durability: The ground allows for heavy lifting and scrubbing techniques without damaging the surface.
• Application: Applied directly with a brush, with 1–2 coats usually providing full coverage.
• Drying Time: Needs to cure for at least 24 hours to achieve maximum absorption.

Gum Arabic and Liquid Ox Gall available here.