Ireland (EUR)
Masking fluid, also known as “masking fluid” or “drawing gum”, can be used with most water-based paints but is above all an indispensable medium for creating highlights and contrast in watercolour. Despite this, it remains an underexplored area for many beginners as well as experienced watercolour artists. Once you decide to buy masking fluid, you will quickly notice that there are many different options available. It can be difficult to understand the differences between brands, packaging types and colours.
This buying guide has been created to make it easier to choose the right masking fluid, so you can quickly get started with introducing this effective medium into your creative work!
4 of our most popular masking fluids
- Winsor & Newton Masking Fluid
- Molotow GRAFX Art Masking Pen
- Sennelier Drawing Gum Pipette
- Schmincke Masking Fluid
To learn how to use masking fluid for watercolour, read our guide All about masking fluid for watercolour. There we share our very best tips and tricks.
Winsor & Newton Masking Fluid
A classic for a solid start
Lightly tinted
Winsor & Newton Masking Fluid is an affordable example of a reliable masking fluid, supplied in a practical 75 ml bottle. It has a fluid consistency that is easy to work with and does not need to be diluted with water. Ideal for splatter effects and small details. The lightly yellow-tinted colour makes it visible on the paper without staining it. The bottle shape is designed to minimise spills when pouring.
All masking fluid from Winsor & Newton →
Molotow GRAFX Art Masking Pen
Apply masking fluid like a pen
Blue-tinted
Using masking fluid has never been easier. This refillable, water-based pump marker allows you to apply masking fluid without any additional tools. It is refillable with blue masking fluid and is available in 2 mm and 4 mm sizes. This is the perfect solution for anyone who values convenience, for example when painting on the go.
All masking fluid from Molotow →
Sennelier Drawing Gum 0.5 mm Pipette
A unique applicator for fine lines
Green-tinted
Sennelier Drawing Gum 0.5 mm Pipette comes in a 36.9 ml container with a metal nozzle for extra-fine lines and high precision. The fluid is lightly green-tinted, making it easy to see on the paper.
All masking fluid from Sennelier →
Schmincke Masking Fluid
High artist quality
With or without colour
Schmincke Masking Fluid is available in 20 ml, 25 ml and 100 ml containers. The 25 ml bottle comes with a fine nozzle for easy application directly from the bottle. The fluid is of high artist quality and therefore sits in a higher price range. The blue-tinted version is very clearly visible on the paper, while the colourless version becomes almost transparent once it has dried.
All masking fluid from Schmincke →
Frequently asked questions about masking fluid
Coloured or colourless masking fluid?
There are advantages to both colourless masking fluid and tinted versions. Some artists prefer the colourless option as it is less visually distracting and makes it easier to imagine the final result while painting. Others prefer masking fluid that is lightly tinted or even bright blue, as it makes the rubber easier to see on the paper. It all comes down to personal preference and what best suits your subject or creative process.
How do you use masking fluid?
Masking fluid can be used with several different media, but it is especially useful for watercolour and gouache. If you would like to learn more about how to apply and remove masking fluid step by step, take a look at our guide All about masking fluid for watercolour.
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