Jackman's Art Materials Blog — Gum

What Is Gum Arabic? The History and Role of This Essential Watercolour Ingredient When it comes to watercolour painting, the ingredients behind the paint are just as important as the pigments themselves. One of the oldest and most essential ingredients in traditional watercolour formulations is gum Arabic—a natural binder that has been used by artists for centuries. But what exactly is gum Arabic? Where does it come from? And why is it still used in professional-grade watercolours today? Let’s explore the rich history and vital role of gum Arabic in watercolour painting. What Is Gum Arabic? Gum Arabic is a...

Used in the binder for Watercolour paints, it’s also available to buy as a separate solution and can be used to improve the transparency and gloss of the watercolour, it can also be used to slow the drying time and can also be used for controlling spread when painting wet-on-wet Professional Artist Michele Webber’s YouTube video: 8 Clever Gum Arabic Tricks (For Watercolor!) explains some very useful tips and trick for this medium It can be bought and used to make your own watercolour paints (with a few axillary materials) but be aware that all manufactures will have a slightly...