What does liftable mean in watercolour?

A liftable pigment can be partially or fully removed from paper after drying by rewetting and blotting. Non-staining pigments like Ultramarine and Cobalt Blue lift easily. Staining pigments like Phthalo Blue barely lift at all.

Why does staining matter?

Staining pigments permanently colour the paper fibres, making corrections difficult. They are excellent for glazing (transparent layers build colour without lifting what is underneath) but unforgiving for beginners.

How does paper type affect lifting?

Cotton papers (100% rag) release pigment more easily than cellulose papers. Rough textured paper holds pigment in its valleys. Hot-press (smooth) paper is harder to lift from because pigment bonds more evenly to the surface.

Which pigments should I use for early layers?

Use non-staining, liftable pigments for early layers: Ultramarine, Cobalt Blue, Yellow Ochre, Raw Umber. Save staining pigments (Phthalo, Alizarin, Quinacridone) for later layers where you need permanent, intense colour.

Can I mix liftable and staining pigments?

Yes, but the mix behaves like the staining component. Lifting a mix of Ultramarine and Phthalo Blue will remove the Ultramarine but leave the Phthalo. This can create interesting colour shifts when lifting.

ArtCalcs

Colour Lift Calculator — Watercolour Liftability

Determine which watercolour pigments are liftable and plan your painting layers.

Pigment

Paper Type

How We Calculate This

How Liftability Assessment Works

Liftability = Pigment base lift % + Paper modifier

Each pigment has an inherent liftability based on its chemical composition. Paper type modifies this: cotton papers allow easier lifting, hot-press makes lifting harder. The calculator provides a percentage and practical advice for layering.

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.