Question about using a graphite paddle for color work

I was watching a demo at the Asheville studio where the artist said a steel marver cools the glass too fast for certain color reactions. I always used steel for everything, but after seeing her get a smoother blend with graphite, I'm rethinking my whole setup. What specific color applications have you found where graphite makes a clear difference?

2 comments

2 Comments

claire9581mo ago

Ha, I've been that person stubbornly using steel for everything. Graphite is a game changer for striking colors, especially gold pinks and some rubinos. The slower cool down lets the color develop more evenly without shocking it. I get way less of that muddy, under-struck look now.

anthony_park3129d ago

Yeah, the "muddy, under-struck look" Claire mentioned is so real. It reminds me of this time I was trying to get a good strike on a silver glass and just kept getting this dull gray mess. A friend finally shoved his graphite pad at me and was like, just try it. The difference wasn't even subtle, it was like the color finally woke up. Totally changed how I handle anything that needs a slow cool down now.