Watercolor is known for its luminous transparency, and sometimes the brightest highlights are the ones you don’t paint at all. That’s where DANIEL SMITH Masking Fluid comes in—a must-have tool in your studio when you want to preserve the white of your paper for the most striking contrast and clarity.

Whether you’re painting glistening reflections on a glass bottle or capturing the intricate shine of metal, masking fluid allows you to plan ahead and keep those areas crisp and untouched while you layer in juicy watercolor washes.

Our DANIEL SMITH Masking Fluid is thoughtfully designed with 5 fine-point applicator tips—ideal for creating precise lines, tiny dots, or detailed patterns. You don’t need a separate brush to apply it, and you won’t risk ruining your best watercolor brushes in the process. Just uncap, apply, let it dry, and you’re ready to paint freely over the masked areas.

The included 5 different fine-point applicator tips are perfect for detail-oriented artists who demand control and consistency in every mark.

1. Use the Fine Tips for Detail Work

Here, you can see Brand Ambassador Giovanni Balzarani using the DANIEL SMITH Masking Fluid with one of its fine tip applicators to create small, even dots—perfect for preserving the shine on condensation droplets in his photorealistic soda can painting.

Try a Calligraphy or Dip Pen for Extra Precision

For even finer lines or calligraphic flourishes, many artists love using a calligraphy pen or dip pen with a metal or glass nib. These tools allow you to draw with masking fluid just as you would with ink—perfect for lettering, veins in leaves, fine whiskers, or any delicate line work. Simply dip the nib into masking fluid and apply to dry watercolor paper with a steady hand.

Tip: Pour a small amount of masking fluid into a clean, empty ink vial or small airtight container. This makes dipping easy and reduces the risk of contaminating the entire bottle.

2. Brush Application for Larger Areas

For broader coverage, you can also dip a separate brush (just not one of your treasured watercolor brushes!) into the masking fluid in a small dish. Make sure to rinse it immediately afterward or coat the bristles with a bit of dish soap before dipping to prevent damage.

In this example, Giovanni uses two techniques—an architectural ruling pen for fine highlights and brush application for wider masked shapes—all working together to preserve the white paper for high contrast and realism.

3. Paint with Confidence

Once the masking fluid is completely dry, (heat not recommended!) go ahead and apply your watercolor washes boldly across the surface. You’ll paint right over the masked areas without worry, knowing those critical highlights will remain sharp and clean.

After your painting has completely dried naturally, gently rub off the masking fluid with a clean finger or eraser—and watch those white highlights reveal themselves!

• Included Precision Tip: Includes 5 replacement tips for fine detail work.
  
• Quick-Drying and Easy to Remove: Mask, paint, peel, and move on.
  
• Reliable on Cold and Hot Press Papers: Holds its edge beautifully without bleeding. Tip: 100% Cotton paper works best!
  
• Perfect for Realism and Abstraction Alike: From photorealistic highlights to creative resist textures.

Masking fluid gives watercolor artists the freedom to focus on flow, knowing that their lightest values will stay protected. Whether you’re painting a lime green soda can with condensation beads or a glinting eye in a pet portrait, DANIEL SMITH Masking Fluid helps preserve the brilliance of your original paper.

Ready to try it for yourself? Find a retailer near you!