To thicken the water you will need methyl cellulose which is a powdery substance that mixes with water to create a consistency much like a thin gelatin.
Thicken water for marbling.
The marbling paints sink to the bottom of the tray.
Mix 1 4 cup of methyl cellulose with 2 quarts of water for the best marbling consistency.
Marbling is easier than you think and once you ve learned the technique you ll be swirling and dipping everything you own from hats to totes to notebooks this tutorial is not to be missed.
The best paper for marbleizing is thick enough to be absorbent while standing up to the water bath but not so thick that it s inflexible.
If it s too thick the paper will push away the pigment when you gently lay your sheet onto the pigmented water.
I prepared my water in a stock pot which has measurements marked out along the inside.
Add 1 teaspoon of methocel methocelulose powder per gallon of solution or throw out and start a new recipe.
The size might be too thin or old.