I am another who has never stopped doing these mats.
I am in the habit of doing the panels first because sometimes I like the more muted look of watercolor ruled lines, as well. I will also dip the tip of my brush into ox gall before the watercolor for the panel- this keeps it flowing nice; smooth and even the whole way.
Cathie, I have great fun experimenting with this type of decoration. There are many variations that never manage to look 'over the top'- they always look understated and elegant.
I use them on antique prints for a very traditional look, I especially like to experiment with 'outlandish' colors on black and white prints.
But I also like them on color and black and white digital family prints.
I have added a bit of iridescent medium to a panel, used washed panels on textured mats to play up that texture and inked lines through panels (once they're dry.)
My new favorite is to have a series of lines and panels near the opening and then wash the remainder of the mat in some muted tone. This gives the mat a nifty aged look that I have not seen elsewhere.
Lately, I have also been playing with milky pastel washed panels on those fabulous dark earthy green and brown solid core mats. Yummy! They have been very popluar with customers, as well.
A couple of tips to start you out: Get good brushes and use them ONLY for your mats. I have to hide mine! Get brushes that correspond to the width of panels you are likely to use. I have flat watercolor brushes in 1/4", 1/2", 3/4" and one inch widths. One pass'll do, then.
Any type of paint will work. I mix gouache with watercolor with tempera and will add acrylic paint or medium to make it permanent.
Batch 'em. Once you have the brushes in hand and the cups of water handy, it doesn't take much longer to do ten than it does to do two.
Make lots of samples! It's the only way to sell them. I can't tell you how many times I've been told to "do it just like that one," or better yet, "do whatever you want."
When I do panels, by the way, I will always start with a very watered down color. Sometimes a very faintly colored panel is 'just the ticket,' if it's not enough, however, it is very easy to simply brush another layer. And another...
It does take time to get the feel for it, but not that long. If you can hold a brush in your hand, you can do it.
A Papal blessing would be a natural for this kind of treatment- and here's your excuse to add some gold metallic ink to your paintbox.
Let us know where this inspiration takes you!
edie the watercolorundermyfingernails goddess