Adding a hint of gold to your art journal can transform a simple page into something truly eye-catching. In this post, I’ll show you how to use a gold leafing pen to sketch leaves and branches, creating a beautiful metallic effect on a dark background. Whether you’re looking to try something new or enhance your current style, these easy steps will help you create an elegant art piece.
Prepare your art journal by taping off the edges with painter’s tape to create a clean border. Lightly mist your watercolor palette with water and let it sit for about 30 seconds to activate the paint.
For this piece, I’ll be creating a rich, dark background by blending deep shades like navy blue, dark purple, forest green, and black. To achieve maximum saturation, layer the colors generously. If you’d like smoother blends, spray your page with additional water and tilt your journal to encourage the colors to flow and drip. Once satisfied with the effect, dry the page thoroughly using a heat tool.
Next, mix water with white acrylic paint using a fan brush. Tap the fan brush against another object above the page to create a splatter effect on the background. Dry again.
Use a gold leafing pen to sketch elegant leaves and branches across your artwork. Add a simple textured line to each leaf for subtle detail. Keep the design minimal to maintain a clean, refined look while letting the gold’s metallic shimmer take center stage.
Next, use a stencil brush to softly apply black ink around the edges of your page, creating a bold frame. Once complete, carefully remove the painter’s tape and allow the piece to dry completely.
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Supply List:
- Grumbacher 7 X 10 Watercolor Pad
- Sennilier Watercolors
- Painter’s Tape
- Dynasty Brushes
- Gold Leafing Pen Marvy Uchida DecoColor
- Black Ink
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