This month’s creative coffee date with Jess Greenleaf was rich with technique, philosophy, and inspiration. In it, we explored everything from the quirks of handmade paper to the confidence that comes with mastering color theory.
When Jess Greenleaf and I get together, you can always expect to learn something new. Our September coffee date didn’t disappoint! We covered everything from testing inks on tricky handmade papers to the ins and outs of color theory. Along the way, we talked about building confidence as an artist, favorite pigments, watercolor techniques, and even the future of cursive writing. Then, Jess threw a giveaway curveball! The coffee date is absolutely worth a watch or a listen:
Below, you’ll find a quick written synopsis of what we covered.
We kicked things off with a discussion on ink dilution techniques. I recommended starting with very small amounts of water and testing often. Jess and I also explored the properties of Ziller ink, which is waterproof, mostly lightfast, and versatile. Then, Jess taught us how to do lightfastness testing at home. I shared my experience with Indian Cotton Paper Co.’s handmade paper, which is fabulous for calligraphy and watercolor, but requires careful nib and ink pairing to avoid feathering.
Jess gave a brilliant overview of color theory, describing it as the “philosophy of how colors behave and interact.” She introduced split primaries (two warm and two cool versions of each primary), which make cleaner and more vibrant secondary colors. We both agreed that a strong grasp of color temperature and thoughtful primary choices are game-changers for mixing.
The conversation naturally shifted to how artists build confidence over time. We compared it to cooking: the more you practice, the more instinctive your choices become. We also talked about creating color charts and wheels as a way to understand inks and paints better. I shared how I pick projects and how past work can be a source of inspiration when you’re unsure where to start.
We both emphasized the importance of mistakes as opportunities for growth. Creativity thrives when you stay open and flexible. We also touched on the future of cursive writing, which I suspect will see a resurgence thanks to parent demand in schools and its ongoing relevance in contexts like wedding invitations. We also chatted about the website More Love Letters, which encourages people to send handwritten notes of kindness to strangers. It’s an amazing way to use your creativity (for beautiful envelopes and cards) to offer encouragement to someone who needs it.
Pigments always spark lively conversation! Jess loves violet hematite and Chilean lapis lazuli, while I always reach for violet hematite when I need rich shadows. We also discussed South African chromite, Armenian and American hematites, and rutile tin zinc orange. The colors of fall provided extra inspiration.
We wrapped up with watercolor technique talk: tubes versus pans, and when each shines. As a fun surprise, we announced a giveaway of watercolor tubes and a lapel pin. There was only supposed to be one winner, but in a burst of goodwill, Jess decided to pick three! The lucky new owners of the tubes were chosen based on their answers to a color theory trivia question, and they got to select colors from the twelve available options.
Jess and I will be back for another session in October (with special guest Samantha Dion Baker!), and I can’t wait to continue exploring creativity with all of you. These coffee dates are such a highlight for me … they’re a chance to share, learn, and be reminded of the joy in making. If you’re not a Premium member, be sure to join so you can attend the next session!
Thanks so much for reading (and watching!), and I hope you leave inspired.
Warmly,
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