Sizing

Definition

Sizing refers to a treatment applied to paper that affects its surface properties, specifically its absorbency and ability to withstand moisture. This process enhances the paper's performance by preventing ink from spreading too much and ensuring that media applied to the surface stays vibrant and clear. Different types of sizing can be used depending on the desired effect and the intended use of the paper.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sizing can be classified into internal sizing, which is added during the manufacturing process, and external sizing, which is applied after the paper is made.
2. Different types of sizing materials, like gelatin or starch, can influence the paper's final characteristics, including texture and finish.
3. Sizing plays a crucial role in how well water-based inks adhere to the paper, impacting techniques like watercolor painting.
4. Artists often choose paper based on its sizing properties to ensure their intended media performs optimally without bleeding or feathering.
5. Over-sizing or under-sizing can lead to issues such as difficulty in achieving fine details or an undesired appearance in finished artwork.

Review Questions

• How does sizing influence the interaction between different media and paper surfaces?
  • Sizing significantly affects how media like ink or paint interact with paper surfaces. It controls absorbency, meaning that a well-sized paper will allow inks to sit on the surface rather than bleed into it. This is crucial for achieving crisp lines and maintaining color vibrancy in artwork. The right amount of sizing ensures that artists can work effectively with their chosen media without losing control over their techniques.
• Compare and contrast internal and external sizing in terms of their application and effects on paper characteristics.
  • Internal sizing is integrated into the pulp during paper production, while external sizing is applied after the sheet has been formed. Internal sizing typically provides a uniform quality throughout the sheet, affecting absorbency and resilience against moisture uniformly. In contrast, external sizing can be adjusted post-production to enhance surface characteristics for specific artistic needs, allowing artists to customize their papers according to their techniques.
• Evaluate the impact of improper sizing on artistic techniques and outcomes when using various media.
  • Improper sizing can severely limit an artist's ability to use various techniques effectively. For example, if a paper is over-sized, it may repel water-based inks or paints, making it challenging to achieve smooth washes or fine details. Conversely, under-sizing can lead to excessive bleeding or feathering of inks, resulting in muddy colors and loss of detail. Understanding how sizing impacts these factors is essential for artists who aim for precision and clarity in their work.

Related terms

Absorbency: The capacity of paper to take in liquids, which can impact how different media interact with the surface.

Surface Treatment: Processes that modify the surface characteristics of materials, including paper, to enhance performance for specific applications.

Gesso: A primer used on surfaces before painting or drawing, which can also affect how sizing interacts with media applied on it.