Back before I had a mortgage, children, pets, and most other major responsibilities, something I loved doing was hand-coloring black and white photographs with watercolors and giving them as gifts or putting them up in my house. I recently got back into it following the need for something “zen” to do with my spare time and a creative urge. However it seems my old “technique” of using standard watercolors (the kind already hardened in a flat container) applied with a cotton swab just isn’t cutting it anymore and I desire a more professional and clean look to my work. Since I haven’t been at this in a while, is anyone experienced enough to help get me back on track without spending too much extra money? Should I be using a better tool other than a Q-tip that won’t make the paint streak so much? Better paints?
Interesting OP but a bit obscure, which may explain its early and untimely demise.
You will want to make sure you don’t get stuck with RC paper, and do your painting when the paper is still slightly moist, it seeps into the fibers better.
My only other suggestion comes straight from a photographer teacher who had us doing some basic tinting- make three of every print. That way, if you almost get the right look but not quite ( or, you competely screw the print up ) you have more to work with that are identical in tone and texture. Even if you keep scrupulous notes, you know that due to variations in temperature and chemistry mix it is VERY hard to duplicate a print at a later date exactly.
Instead of a Q-Tip(r), why not try the tiny foam sponge brushes used for make-up? They are small, and some are chiseled, absorbent but smoother than the Q-Tip (r again 
) and may yield a cleaner line as a result.
Got any you can share here so we can see?
Cartooniverse
Interesting OP but a bit obscure, which may explain its early and untimely demise.
You will want to make sure you don’t get stuck with RC paper, and do your painting when the paper is still slightly moist, it seeps into the fibers better.
My only other suggestion comes straight from a photographer teacher who had us doing some basic tinting- make three of every print. That way, if you almost get the right look but not quite ( or, you competely screw the print up ) you have more to work with that are identical in tone and texture. Even if you keep scrupulous notes, you know that due to variations in temperature and chemistry mix it is VERY hard to duplicate a print at a later date exactly.
Instead of a Q-Tip(r), why not try the tiny foam sponge brushes used for make-up? They are small, and some are chiseled, absorbent but smoother than the Q-Tip (r again ) and may yield a cleaner line as a result.
Got any you can share here so we can see?
Cartooniverse