This month’s coffee date with Jess Greenleaf looked a little different than past sessions. Instead of focusing on one topic, we hosted a Q&A session! The questions led to a discussion that covered everything from the technical details of pigments to the age-old question of whether tracing is “cheating.”
This chat was a good opportunity to go off the beaten path and follow your curiosity. We touched on topics like the best way to organize an ink collection and whether using salty water (or whiskey!) in your watercolors affects the final result. We also offered solutions to common problems, such as calligraphy nibs skipping and how to choose the right side of watercolor paper. The full recording is available to watch below:
One of the best things about these creative coffee date sessions is how they follow the natural flow of a creative mind. We got to talk about everything from the historical use of shells as watercolor pans to innovative ways to store your ink collection. Jess had stories that were fascinating to hear, like how the Gamblin company uses rogue pigments from their air filtration system to make a color called “Torrit Gray”.
The heart of the conversation was the questions we all deal with. We talked about how to tell which side of watercolor paper to use, and why distilled water can be a good choice for your inks. We also discussed the frustrating problem of a skipping calligraphy nib, and shared viscosity tips for watercolors and inks.
It’s validating to hear other artists ask the same questions you’ve been wondering about. This chat was a good reminder that everyone, regardless of skill level, faces similar challenges. The conversation reinforced some key takeaways about a healthy creative practice:
What made this creative chat especially fun wasn’t just the topics; it was the people. These monthly calls are a great chance to share, brainstorm, and learn from each other. I left the conversation feeling inspired and energized, and I’m already looking forward to our next chat. We’ll pick up where we left off, so be sure to bring your questions. Thanks so much for reading (and watching!), and have a lovely rest of your day.
Warmly,
Fuel your inspiration and creativity with TPK Premium Plus! Members enjoy three free worksheets or learning resources every month, unlimited video course access, member-exclusive tutorials, and a 10% discount on all Supplies Shop orders.
inspiration in your inbox
TPK’s innovative newsletters are an artistic treat. Join the 125K+ subscribers who have already discovered The Postman’s Knock, and receive 10% off your first Digital Catalog order.
