How To Hand Wrap A Cotton Skewer

hand painted photography

   

 

Its worth taking about 1/2 hour to master this skill. While Q-tips work great for most areas, they are just too big for many fine details.

 

Materials

100% Cotton -Do not use cosmetics puffs, the fibers do not blend the oils as well as 100% cotton.

Round Toothpicks or Skewers

 

1. Skewer that comes with the Marshall's sets.

2. Pointed wrapped skewer used for details.

3. Loosely wrapped skewer used for blending.

4. Round pointed toothpick is fine for working in small areas.

5. Blunt end toothpicks should not be used.

Wrapping

Take a small piece of cotton about 1 1/2 inches long by 3/4 inches wide. Split the cotton so its not too thick. The amount of cotton used will be dependant on the area to be colored. Hold the skewer in your right hand and the cotton in your left. Lefties do this in reverse.

wrapswab1
Arrange the cotton fibers so they are perpendicular to the skewer. Bend the edge of the cotton over the skewer with your left thumb. wrapswab2
Roll the cotton and the skewer part way with your left thumb and finger. wrapswab3
Fold the cotton down over the point of the skewer and hold it there with your left thumb. wrapswab4
Hold the cotton firmly between your left finger and thumb while twirling the skewer with your right hand. wrapswab5
Continue to hold the cotton firmly and twirl the skewer with your right hand until all the cotton is tightly wrapped on the skewer. wrapswab6
A well-wrapped skewer should like this. The tip of the skewer should not poke through the cotton because it could damage your print. wrapswab7

Practice hand wrapping skewers until it becomes second nature. A well wrapped skewer should never come apart while working. Also practice wrapping skewers that are soft and loose for gentle blending as well as the tight ones.

 

Note: Cotton should always be torn rather than cut with siccors. Cutting leaves a harsh edge.

Tips for Taking Great Pictures

Getting Started - Basic Tips on Hand Coloring Photography

Hand Wrapping a Cotton Skewer

Marshall Oil's Guide to Hand Coloring Black & White Photography (PDF)

FAQ

 

   
   
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