Let me start by saying this is a very embarrassing lesson, but all the more reason I must pass it on ...
This is the second drawing I have created from the same reference. I'd like to post later about drawing the same subject (as I will be drawing a third) and the comparison factor, but this is about the end of this one!After finishing this charcoal drawing (of which I was very proud!) I went to fix it with a finish.I use Krylon Spray - Crystal Clear for all drawings and mixed media work.Problem is ... I didn't grab the right can! I grabbed a SPRAY ADHESIVE. I only realized this when I went to scan it, and the surface of my drawing glued itself to the scanner glass surface. omg - HUGE sad face :(Now I wasn't rushed, drunk or high. Of course, I must admit distraction (my mind is preoccupied with its own insanity!). I was obviously not thinking clearly or being attentive. Yes, I can read! ♥. But this was not just 'one of those stupid things' .... I think back and realize I only recently purchased Krylon's Spray Adhesive for the first time last Fall. Prior, I always purchased 3M Spray Adhesive which is a black can and looks very different, and what I am used to seeing.
I rely on my visual senses and comfortability in my studio space SO MUCH that I abandoned all my other senses! That comfortability then lead to abandoned reason, because I know to TEST first on a scrap piece of paper, especially before layering on a final work. ESPECIALLY a final work you LIKE!
Mixed Media includes adding a finish to a drawing. When you introduce a new product, you should TEST first. I even have experience to support the knowledge to test what you know, as once a can of the right product 'Krylon Crystal Clear' (which was OLD) turned a mixed media tree piece completely white - almost as if I used a can of fake snow to spray on it. With a lot of research, I discovered that when they say to SHAKE THE CAN you really should listen. Those couple of boring minutes shaking a can is good advice. To my demise, the contents of that old can had separated, and I may have avoided destroying a work of art had I been more ATTENTIVE (to instructions as well as how old that product was). I now write dates on all products and storage bins. Now, how did I fix this big 'OOPS!'...
TeaCup Commission - Charcoal on Paper 9"x12"
I thankfully only sprayed a 'dusting' ... even if you are using the right product, it is always better to build up in many light layers that one globulous coat. A heavy sprayed coating can saturate and damage the work. Light, dusting layers allows CONTROL over everything.
After realizing what had happened, I sprayed many layers of the Crystal Clear over the drawing. Each layer coated the spray glue, as well as the charcoal. *relief!* The drawing is just fine!
Immediately, I cleaned the scanner surface with diluted ammonia and water (you can use whatever you like to clean glass). I sprayed a dry cloth so the cleaning solution was not all over the equipment, and it removed easily.
Intentionally marked the cans DIFFERENTLY. The Spray Adhesive can now has a big black strip of black duct tape on it, as well I've put it in the 'adhesives' tupperware bin, which I had not bothered to do before.
This is a reminder for us all to TEST first. Test often, and test more than you think you need - especially when introducing new materials/mixed media. It may be annoying, but best to test and know it's all good than have to freak out and recover! Many manufacturers note a disclaimer on this! We can't ask these companies to have distinct and visual labels, nor assure us positive results considering their 'general purpose' (even for specific purposes, there are too many variables once out in the marketplace and in the hands of individuals). Personally, I know this well - yet I keep learning this lesson from time to time the hard way. So I will continue to pass it on. My only saving grace is that I do accept my mistakes and know it is my fault and responsibility if anything terrible goes down in this creative space.