Here are quick step-by-step to trace the colour circle side of the ColourJot Template.
1. Position the stencil squarely on the page. Use the top of the stencil to align with the top of the book and the bottom of the stencil to align with the bottom of the book.
2. If you’re creating a 2-page spread, be aware of the gutter and align your template, so that no openings are on that gutter.
3. Rotate the stencil 360° to double-check that your circle is placed where you want it on the page.
4. When satisfied with the placement, secure the template into position using Nitto watercolour tape, or similar low-tack drafting tape.
5. Trace directly using a marker a .08 Sakura Pigma Micron, or similar fine-tipped waterproof, permanent marker is recommended. There is no need to use a pencil to pre-trace the stencil because then you’ll have to ink it later anyway so try to do it in one step. It saves time and look better.
6. Use a pin (or the tip of the marker) in the centre pivot point, rotate the stencil, 360° and trace again.
More ways to use a ColourJot Circle Template
ColourJotting is not limited to watercolour or gouache on paper. Use the appropriate surface to match your paint type.
For acrylic painters: Trace the template onto Bristol paper, illustration board, or watercolour paper (same options as watercolour).
For oil painters: Trace the template onto a primed canvas in pad, board, or stretched canvas.
For textile artists: Outline with a fine-tipped fabric marker and use your textile paints like Jacquared Dye-Na-Flow or Pebeo Setacolor.
For coloured pencil artists: Practice layering and gradual pressure techniques for modifying colours.
The smallest format that fits both the circle and the grid is 11×14” and 12×16”. Acrylic painters can use Canvas Paper or canvas board or watercolour pad. Oil Painters could use primed canvas pad, a primed canvas board, or Oil Primed Paper like Stonehenge Oil. This larger format is also good for art instructors making samples to share in class.
