Earthen Pigments: Hand-Gathering & Using Natural Colors in Art - Paperback

Hand-Gathering and Using Natural Earth Pigments

This comprehensive guidebook teaches artists how to collect, process, and create art materials from natural earth pigments. Written by Sandy Webster, this resource covers the complete journey from field collection to finished artwork.

What You'll Learn

The book begins with essential equipment and tools needed for gathering soils in the field. Step-by-step instructions guide you through the studio processes of cleaning, sifting, and mulling raw materials into beautiful colored pigments ready for artistic use.

Creating Artist Mediums from Natural Pigments

Detailed recipes and illustrations demonstrate how to transform hand-gathered pigments into multiple artist mediums: • Water-based paints for traditional painting techniques • Pastels for drawing and sketching • Oil and wax crayons for mixed media work • Casein solutions for durable applications • Printmaking inks for relief and intaglio processes • Paper threads for weaving, stitching, and fiber art Each medium includes specific formulations and techniques for working with natural earth colors.

Visual Reference and Inspiration

Throughout the book, pigment samples showcase the range of colors achievable from hand-gathered materials. A gallery section features the author's completed artworks created entirely with natural pigments, demonstrating practical applications of these techniques.

For Artists and Craftspeople

This guidebook serves artists, craftspeople, journalers, and hobbyists interested in sustainable art practices and traditional material-making methods. The techniques apply to painting, drawing, printmaking, fiber arts, and mixed media work.