Watercolour has a way of making even the simplest things look magical. Its flow, transparency, and soft layers are so dreamy. But it can be tricky if you don’t know the rules. Whether you’re just starting out or getting back into it, these tips will help you paint confidently and create pieces you’ll love.
1. Work from Light to Dark
One of the most important rules in watercolour is to start with lighter colours and gradually build up to darker tones. Unlike opaque paints, watercolours are transparent, so dark pigments can easily overpower lighter ones. By layering gradually, you maintain depth and luminosity in your work. Think of it as building a story: the lighter base sets the scene, and darker tones bring in the drama.
2. Watercolours Lighten When Dry
With Watercolour painting, sometimes, the colours appear brighter or lighter once they dry. This happens because the water evaporates, leaving just the pigment on the paper. Keep this in mind when mixing and applying colours: what looks dark and saturated on your palette might soften beautifully on paper. Patience is key!
3. White Comes from the Paper
Unlike acrylic or gouache, watercolour doesn’t need white paint. The white areas in your painting come from the paper itself. Preserve the untouched paper for highlights and reflective surfaces. This simple rule can make a huge difference, giving your work that signature glow that only watercolour can achieve.
4. Try to Avoid Black Paint
Black paint can be harsh and flat, and it often dulls the vibrancy of your other colours. Instead, mix dark tones using complementary colours like deep blues, purples, or browns. This approach keeps your painting rich and harmonious, and gives your shadows more life and depth.
5. Control the Water Cycle
Watercolour is as much about water as it is about paint. Understanding your paper’s moisture state is crucial:
• Dry – crisp edges, controlled brushstrokes
• Damp – soft edges, subtle blending
• Moist – smooth gradients, gentle transitions
• Wet – flowing, unpredictable washes
Learning to work with these states helps you control the flow, texture, and blending of your paints, turning “accidents” into deliberate effects
6. Master Two Key Techniques
Two fundamental techniques unlock the versatility of watercolour:
• Wet-on-wet: Apply wet paint onto wet paper. This creates soft edges, smooth transitions, and dreamy backgrounds.
• Wet-on-dry: Apply wet paint onto dry paper. This gives precision, sharp edges, and controlled detail.
Experimenting with these methods will expand your creative possibilities and give your paintings both fluidity and definition.
Watercolour is a dance between paint, water, and paper. By following these golden rules, you’ll gain confidence, control, and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful medium. Remember, it’s all about layering light to dark, preserving your whites, mixing thoughtfully, and embracing the natural flow of water.
Happy painting!
