There’s something magical about watercolour. The way colours bleed into each other, the softness of each brushstroke, and that dreamy, unpredictable vibe. It’s like painting with liquid sunshine! But if you’ve ever tried watercolours and ended up with a muddy puddle instead of a masterpiece, don’t panic. We’ve all been there.
Watercolour is less about control and more about learning to go with the flow (literally). And once you get the hang of a few basic techniques, it becomes one of the most relaxing and rewarding art forms you’ll ever try.
Let’s break it down, step by step.
What You’ll Need
- Watercolour paints (you already know we’re your premium plug for this 😉
- Brushes (a medium round brush is your best friend)
- Watercolour paper (regular paper will buckle and cry under all that water)
- Water cup (two is even better: one for rinsing, one for clean water)
- Paper towel or rag (for little accidents)
Step 1: Get to Know Your Paint
Dip your brush in water, pick up some colour, and swatch it on paper. Try making a gradient from dark to light by adding more water as you go. This teaches you how your paint behaves. Think of it as a first date with your watercolours.
Step 2: Try the Wet on Dry Technique
Paint directly onto dry paper. You’ll get crisp, defined edges; perfect for details like leaves, lettering, or shapes.
Step 3: Play with Wet on Wet
Now wet the paper first with clean water, then drop colour onto it. Watch how the pigment spreads and blends like magic. This is great for skies, abstract backgrounds, or anything dreamy.
Step 4: Layer Like a Pro
Once your first layer dries, paint on top of it. Layering builds depth and dimension (like painting a light blue wash for the sky, then adding darker blue clouds). Patience is key. Let it dry fully before layering, or it’ll turn into a mushy mess.
Tips to Keep in Mind
- Less is more: Watercolours shine when you let them breathe.
- Work light to dark: Start with pale washes, then build up colour.
- Let it dry: Rushing layers is the fastest way to mud-town.
- Embrace mistakes: The beauty of watercolour is in its unpredictability.
Final Thought
Watercolour isn’t about being perfect, it’s about enjoying the flow. Your first few paintings might be blotchy or wobbly, but they’ll also be full of personality. Keep practicing, keep playing, and remember: every brushstroke is progress.
