Jackman's Art Materials Blog

The History of Gouache: From Illuminated Manuscripts to Modern Mastery Gouache is often described as the "bold cousin of watercolour"—a paint that bridges the transparent delicacy of watercolour and the opaque strength of acrylic or oil. But long before it became a favourite medium for illustrators, designers, and fine artists, gouache had a vibrant and storied past. Its history stretches across centuries, cultures, and technologies, making it one of the most enduring forms of artistic expression. What Is Gouache? Before diving into its history, let’s clarify what gouache actually is. Gouache (pronounced "gwash") is a water-based paint made of finely...

Perylene Black (Green) Pigment (P.Bk 31): The Deep Black with a Unique Green Undertone Perylene Black (Green) (P.Bk 31) is a favorite of professional artists. This unique, synthetic organic pigment offers a rich, deep black infused with a subtle, cool **green undertone**—perfect for atmospheric shadows and sophisticated color mixing. Key Pigment Facts Color Index: P.Bk 31 Undertone: Cool Green Pigment Type: Synthetic Organic Primary Use: Fine Art, Infrared Technology Lightfastness: Excellent 🖌️ P.Bk 31 in Fine Art: Creating Depth and Subtle Shadows Forget flat, lifeless black pigments. Perylene Black (Green) provides a nuanced, *cooler* alternative to traditional Lamp Black or...

What Is ASTM D 4236? Understanding Art Material Safety Standards What Is ASTM D 4236? Understanding Art Material Safety Standards If you’ve ever noticed the phrase “Conforms to ASTM D 4236” on your tubes of paint, markers, or other art supplies and wondered what it means, you're not alone. This little line plays a big role in protecting artists, hobbyists, and students across the United States. In this post, we’ll break down what ASTM D 4236 is, why it matters, and what it means for you as an artist. What Is ASTM D 4236? ASTM D 4236 is a safety...

Black Pigments in Art: Carbon, Ivory, Mars Black & More - Jackman's Art Materials The Deepest Shade – Exploring the World of Black Pigments Black is often seen as the simplest of colors, but in the world of pigments, black is anything but basic. From the smoky depths of **Carbon Black** to the rich, organic tones of **Ivory Black**, artists and manufacturers have long explored various ways to capture the essence of darkness. In this post, we’ll uncover the history of black pigments, how they’re made, and what sets them apart. --- Early Black Pigments: Soot, Charcoal, and Bone Black...

French Ultramarine vs. Ultramarine Blue (Green Shade): What’s the Difference? Ultramarine is a staple in many artist palettes—but did you know there’s more than one kind? Two of the most common variations are French Ultramarine and Ultramarine Blue (Green Shade). Though both are made from the same pigment, PB29 (Sodium Sulfosilicate), their differences in tone and behavior can have a significant impact on your artwork. Here's what you need to know to choose the right one for your palette. Same Pigment, Different Hue Both paints are made from the same pigment, PB29, but they are manufactured or processed differently to...