Here are some common questions asked of the Clouds on Water eCourse.

Have a question not answered here? Email me!

I don’t even know how to paint. Will I be able to learn how to marble?

Marbling is an incredibly user-friendly art form. No previous painting experience—or any other kind of art experience—is necessary to learn how to marble. For the Introduction to Paper Marbling Course, all you need is a sense of adventure.

Please note, however, that the Advanced Marbling Techniques and Marbling on Fabric courses assume you already know how to marble and do not teach the basics of marbling. Prior marbling experience, or the Introduction to Paper Marbling course is required for those classes.

When is Clouds on Water offered?

The classrooms are open now! The course is designed to be at-your-own pace so you can dive in and work through the lessons as you please. Occasionally, I'll offer guided sessions as well and as long as you still have access to the classrooms, you will be able to join in.

How long will I have access to the material?

If you buy individual classrooms, you have access to content for one year from the day your register. If you purchase all three classrooms at the same time, you have lifetime access all content.

What technical set up do I need in order to best participate?

You will need a computer (Mac or PC) and high-speed internet connection so you can view the videos (if you can watch the promo video, you should be fine).

Do I need a Facebook account to participate?

A private Facebook group has been set up to provide a space for community and conversation, sharing of work and feedback, and, on occasion, troubleshooting tips from me. However, it is completely optional and not a necessary component to the rest of the Clouds on Water eCourse.

What kind of supplies will I need?

Surprisingly, aside from a few materials specific to marbling (like the carrageenan to make your bath with and the alum for your mordent), you can source a lot of supplies from your existing creative practice, around your home, or even at the hardware store.

For the Introduction to Paper Marbling eCourse, here is an overview of the materials you will need to begin marbling. A more detailed list, with links to all my resources, will be sent to you once you register. Some supplies are only available through mail order, which is why I give you my source list. I also offer a variety of Starter Marbling Kits, which include nearly everything you need to get started marbling right away.

For the Advanced Marbling Techniques eCourse, the materials needed (beyond the basic marbling set up) will depend on your personal goals and inspiration! This list includes some of the materials demonstrated in the course, however, many things you can source from your own experience and resources…and imagination! If you need to stock up on regular marbling supplies (like carrageenan, alum, and dispersant) before class begins, head on over to my shop!

For the Marbling on Fabric eCourse, a detailed list of specific materials will be provided (beyond the basic marbling set up). This list is an overview and includes suggestions for best fabrics upon which to marble. If you need to stock up on regular marbling supplies (like carrageenan, alum, and dispersant) before class begins, head on over to my shop!

What kind of space is necessary for marbling?

Like with many art forms, there are some things to consider when setting up your marbling space. The main thing to think about is that marbling is a WET process and you will likely get water on the floor and paint on the table. Covering your table with plastic or protecting your floor with a drop cloth are easy solutions. Marbling in a garage or on a patio is another option. You will need a table large enough for your tank and paints to sit on and a place to hang your wet papers to dry. These may be two separate areas. I dry my papers outside on a clothesline right outside my studio where I marble inside.

I live outside the United States. Can I participate?

Because the course is online, you can join from anywhere in the world as long as you have access to high-speed internet so you can watch the videos and download handouts. If you can watch the promo video, you should be fine! Please see note on materials list about sourcing certain materials outside of the US.

Are there assignments or due dates to complete the work?

While there are no due dates to complete and you’re welcome to follow along closely or work at your own pace, the content does build on itself so you will find that working through it sequentially is most beneficial.

How much time do I need to participate?

This will vary depending on the type of marbling you are doing.

• For the Introduction to Paper Marbling eCourse: There is some prep work involved before each marbling session and you will need to do this 24-hours before you begin to marble. Marbling involves floating paint on thickened water which is referred to as a bath. Once made, the bath lasts three to seven days (sometimes longer depending on the temperature you’re working in) and then becomes unusable. It is recommended that the first time you marble, you carve out six to eight hours (over a two-day period is great!) to maximize the initial learning process. After a while, as you become more experienced, you can marble in any space of time you wish to commit to. Sometimes I marble two to three hours a day for the life of my bath and other times I marble just one hour a day. Many students find it easy to marble a few hours to several hours over the weekend.

• For the Advanced Marbling Techniques eCourse: The techniques and patterns taught in this course are easily incorporated into your regular marbling practice. No extra time beyond what you normally invest in a marbling session is necessary.

• For the Marbling on Fabric eCourse: There is an additional day or two of prep and up to two weeks post-marbling time necessary for marbling on fabric — however, those pre- and post-marbling days don’t require you to be at the tank or in the studio the entire day (but will require a few hours of your time).

Will I have access to you for questions?

While I don’t have scheduled office hours and personal interaction is not part of the program, I am passionate about helping people create a successful marbling session and love to encourage student growth. As such, I will do my best to answer any questions and provide feedback in the private Facebook groups assigned to each classroom. Simply tag me in the post and if I am available, I will gladly respond.