Dealing with Paint Tube Twist Tops

The tops of watercolor tube paints, especially Windsor Newton* has a tendency to get stuck if you aren’t using them constantly. There are three ways that I know of (four if count plyers) to get around this.

1. Run the top under warm water. I haven’t tried this yet, but I’ve heard from others that its works.
   
   
2. Regurarly clean the end of the tube and cap whenever you open it. This works but it can be annoying to be doing all the time.
   
   
3. Use saran wrap. The saran wrap works great, but will eventually tear and need to be replaced. It can also be a little messy.

Does anyone have any other suggestions or know of any good artist quality brands of watercolor paint where this isn’t a problem? Post any answers in the comments.

*I’ve heard rumors that other brands do do this as much. Unfortunately since almost all my watercolors are Windsor Newton I have no proof of this.

Old Sketchbook Page

Hello, I've decided to take this week off. See you next week.

Video Inspiration

Just found these...

Studio Inspiration

I don't know why, but I find that artist studios really motivate and inspire me to paint and write. To get the full jolt, I need to visit them but I can get a significant jolt just looking at pictures, like these:

Studio 1
Studio 2
Studio 3
Studio 4
Studio 5

I think it's the creative energy that seems to get stored in places where people are being creative. What inspires you to work?

Orphan Works Act

There has been a lot of talk going on, on the Internet about the Orphan Works Act being introduced in congress. Before you start panicking I suggest that you go and read this article. It explains everything and contains lots of links, including: recordings and transcripts of the various hearings and a link to the text of the proposed bill. Go check it out.

The Maker Faire

I went to the Maker Faire this past weekend with some friends. It was awesome! The Faire is kind of like Burning Man meets craft show meets science and technology expo and if you ever have the opportunity to go I highly recommend it. Here's some of the stuff we saw.

Including a new mode of transportation. Everyone, but the driver peddles on this, there is no engine.
These people made a life sized, working version of the mousetrap in the board game Mousetrap.
Finally here's a 20 foot sculpture (I'm estimating the size, but it was BIG) that was continuosly lit on fire.
As I said, if you get the chance, go!

Kitchen Exercise Update

Here's my latest attempt at the kitchen comp (so called because the original hangs in the kitchen). I think I'm getting closer to the image in my head, but it still isn't there yet.