Overmarbling on Paper by Mercedez Rex

Intermediate | 43 min 31 sec

Overmarbling on Paper
Overview01:22
Materials01:40
Preparing paper03:13
Pull your first print17:37
Pull your second print19:39

Taught by Mercedez Rex

This class will be available to view on June 10, 2026.
Creating a “double exposure” effect with marbled papers produces a striking, layered result, and it’s exactly what Austin-based surface designer Mercedez Rex walks you through in this overmarbling technique class. She guides you through layered marbling techniques from the very beginning, starting with selecting your paper and prepping it with alum (the mordant that helps the paint stay in place). From there, experiment with how different registrations shift the final outcome by layering and doubling marbled designs like Suminagashi, Stone, and Gel-git.

This is an intermeditate marbling class. To learn the basics of marbling, check out Mercedez' Creativity Through Marbling: An Introduction.

Here’s what you’ll need:

For marbling solution ("size"): 1 Tbsp carrageenan well blended in 1/2-gallon warm water. NOTE: make at least six hours ahead and keep refrigerated

For alum solution ("mordant"): 1 Tbsp alum well dissolved in 1-quart of warm water

For marbling set up:

Acrylic marbling paints -- Mercedez recommends Jacquard brand put into Boston Round squeeze bottles
Marbling tray, 11" x 14" is recommended
Newspaper strips, approx. 11” x 2”
Marbling brushes (plastic broom straws)
Bamboo stylus (or toothpick)
Palette
Texoprint paper #55 (same size, or smaller, as tray)
Spray bottle for alum
Precision Marbling Comb
Marbling rake
Safety pin
Pencil
Water bath, or sink
Other marbling combs and rakes (optional)
To protect/clean your space: newspaper, drop cloths, or plastic sheeting, trash can, rags