HELP: Torn Edges on Watercolor Paper

[Michael Bruce]

Can somebody tell me how you can cut or tear watercolor paper in a way that
gives you the torn edge effect. I have a few pieces that are larger than I
want, and I want to size them to, say 8x10. What's the best way to get
authentic looking torn edges, but at the same time keep the proportion
relatively rectangular?

Thanks,

Mike Bruce
m...@ic.net

[Jeffrey Novick]

Try folding the paper to the size you want and carefully tear it. If you have
a standard sheet of water color paper, folding it in half, and then, in half
again will give you 4 8x10's.

Jeff

[Gene Laughter]

Light Impressions sells a tearing rule for this purpose. However, it can be
done as follows: Rule oflightly in pencil on the BACK side the rectangle you
wish. Place a steel ruler on each line (with the paper flat on a table) and
pull up ... tearing the paper, using the steel ruler as your guide. Try to tear
each side with one steady pull. Do this on each side and turn the paper over
and, Voila! if you have done it properly, you now have four deckle edges.

Gene