Silk Painting How to

Solvent-based Gutta is a thick substance that is made from latex (derived from Indonesian rubber trees or Gutta Percha). It is used almost exclusively for the French Serti Technique of painting on silk. Serti (French for "fence" or "enclosing”) is the silk painting technique where designs are formed with gutta or resist liner. The gutta seals the fibers of the silk and prevents dye from going there.

• Gutta comes in clear, black, several colors and a range of metallics.

• Solvent-based gutta should be used in a well-ventilated space.

• Once applied to the silk and allowed to dry, it forms the consistency of thin dried glue.

• Painted clothing should have the gutta removed when completed. For non-wearable art work, it can remain, but over time may discolor to a pale yellow line.

• The preferred method of removing gutta is by dry cleaning. Some newer dry cleaning chemicals may not be as effective as were the older types.

• Gutta consistency is the key to good resist lines. If too thick, it won’t penetrate. If necessary, thin cautiously with gutta solvent.

• Store the gutta in a closed container, cool temperature and low light.

• After applying the gutta with an applicator, pour the remaining gutta left in the applicator bottle back into the original gutta container. Do not store gutta in the applicator bottle. It will lose its strength and will dry up.