Studio Notes Art Blog

Kiln Loading, Maintenance, and Care 0

Proper kiln care is essential for achieving consistent firings and extending the life of your equipment. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about kiln loading, maintenance, and troubleshooting, including:

✅ Best practices for loading your kiln to ensure even heating.
✅ Step-by-step firing procedures for bisque and glaze.
✅ Essential safety measures to prevent overheating and accidents.
✅ Routine maintenance checklists to keep your kiln running efficiently.
✅ Troubleshooting tips for common kiln issues, like underfiring and error codes.

We’ve also included a FREE printable Kiln Maintenance Checklist & Firing Diary, so you can track your firings and keep your kiln in peak condition.

📌 Read the full guide and download your resources here: Kiln Loading, Maintenance, and Care

A Comprehensive Guide to Art Paper 0

Choosing the right paper can make or break your artwork! Whether you’re a painter, illustrator, printmaker, or mixed media artist, understanding different types of art paper is essential for achieving the best results.

✅ Explore the differences between watercolor, drawing, pastel, and mixed media papers.
✅ Learn how paper weight, texture, and composition affect your artwork.
✅ Discover the best papers for graphite, charcoal, ink, acrylics, and more.
✅ Get expert tips on paper storage, preservation, and framing.

Finding the right surface for your medium can enhance your technique and elevate your final piece. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned artist, this guide will help you select the perfect art paper for your needs.

A Comprehensive Guide to Pencils and Other Mark Makers 0

Whether you're sketching your next masterpiece, shading with precision, or experimenting with new techniques, the right pencil can make all the difference. In A Comprehensive Guide to Pencils and Other Mark-Makers, we explore everything from graphite grades to colored pencils, charcoal, and pastels—helping you choose the best tools for your artistic style. Learn about different lead hardness, specialty pencils, and essential tips for achieving the perfect marks in your work. Ready to take your drawing skills to the next level? Dive into the guide and discover your next favorite mark-making tool!

Studio Notes from Strathmore: What Paper Should I Use? 0

With so many options available, choosing the right paper for your artwork can feel overwhelming. In this Studio Notes feature from Strathmore, we break down the key factors to consider when selecting the best paper for your medium and technique.

✅ Understand paper weight, surface texture, and composition.
✅ Find the best paper for drawing, watercolor, mixed media, and printmaking.
✅ Learn how sizing and absorbency impact your final results.
✅ Get expert recommendations straight from Strathmore Artist Papers.

Whether you're working with graphite, charcoal, ink, or paint, using the right paper can transform your artwork and help you achieve better control, depth, and durability.