CDA Surface Preparation & Painting Techniques 3

Question 1

What does 'floating' a color mean in tole and decorative painting?

Accepted Answer

Loading one side of a damp flat brush with paint and blending it so color fades to water on the other side

Answer

Floating uses a water-dampened flat brush loaded on one corner so color transitions to a transparent edge, ideal for shading and highlighting.

Question 2

Before applying acrylic paint to a galvanized metal surface, an artist should:

Accepted Answer

Wipe it with white vinegar to etch the zinc coating, then apply metal primer

Answer

White vinegar etches the zinc oxide layer on galvanized metal, giving primer and paint a surface they can bond to.

Question 3

A 'dirty brush' technique in decorative painting means the artist:

Accepted Answer

Uses an unwashed brush still carrying the previous color to blend subtly into the next color

Answer

The residual color in an uncleaned brush merges with the new color on the canvas, creating a natural, painterly transition.

Question 4

When using transfer paper to transfer a decorative pattern onto a dark surface, which color of transfer paper should be used?

Accepted Answer

White or light-colored chalk transfer paper

Answer

White or chalk-based transfer paper produces lines visible against dark backgrounds where black graphite lines would be invisible.

Question 5

Which medium is added to acrylic paint to slow drying time and extend the blending window on the palette?

Accepted Answer

Retarder medium

Answer

Retarder medium reduces the evaporation rate of water in acrylics, keeping paint workable longer for blending techniques.

(CDA) Certified Decorative Artist Practice Test