You use a Tombow blender pen primarily to soften and blend colors applied with Tombow Dual Brush Pens, especially for effects like gradients on lettering or creating blended embellishments.
The Tombow Colourless Blender Pen (often labeled N00) is a versatile tool for artists and crafters using water-based inks. Its main function is to move, blend, and lighten colors, creating smooth transitions or unique textures.
Techniques for Using Your Tombow Blender Pen
Based on common uses and the provided reference, here are key ways to utilize this popular tool:
Blending Letters
A common application is creating gradient effects on hand-lettered words.
- Method: Apply color to your paper with Tombow Dual Brush Pens. While the ink is still wet, use the brush tip of the blender pen to stroke over the colored areas. The blender pen will pick up and spread the ink, creating a smooth fade from the colored area to uncolored areas or between different colors.
- Reference Insight: The reference specifically mentions blending "Letters" with the blender pen.
Blending Embellishments
Beyond lettering, the blender pen is excellent for softening lines or blending colors within illustrations or stamped images.
- Method: Apply color to the area you want to blend. Use the blender pen's tip (either brush or fine tip) to gently merge the edges of colors or push color into surrounding areas.
- Reference Insight: You can use the "fine tip in the same manner for blended embellishments." This indicates versatility in how you apply the blending action depending on the detail level needed.
Creating Color Washes or Softening
You can also use the blender pen to create lighter shades or watercolor-like effects directly.
- Method: Apply a small amount of color from your Tombow Dual Brush Pen onto a non-porous surface (like an acrylic block or plastic palette). Pick up the color with the blender pen and apply it to your paper. This dilutes the color, creating a lighter wash.
Maintaining Your Blender Pen Tip
It's natural for the tip of your Tombow blender pen to pick up color from the inks it interacts with.
- Cleaning: As you use it, "the tip may stain but scribble it out between colors to bring it back to clear." Simply draw on a scrap piece of paper until the tip runs clear again before switching to a new color or section to avoid transferring unwanted ink.
Summary of Uses
| Technique | Description | Reference Mentioned? |
|---|---|---|
| Blending Letters | Creating gradients or smooth transitions on written words. | Yes |
| Blending Embellishments | Softening edges or blending colors in designs/art. | Yes (fine tip) |
| Creating Washes | Diluting color for lighter applications or effects. | No |
| Tip Cleaning | Removing residual ink by scribbling on scrap paper. | Yes |
Using the Tombow blender pen effectively enhances your projects by adding depth, smooth transitions, and artistic effects.
