Techniques, Colour Mixing, and Best Media for Beginners
Watercolour painting is one of the most expressive and enjoyable forms of art, loved for its translucent layers, fluidity, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, mastering watercolour techniques opens up a world of creativity and personal expression.
This guide will introduce you to different watercolour techniques, colour-mixing tips, and the best media for watercolour painting.
Essential Techniques in Watercolour Painting
1. Wet-on-Wet Technique
In this technique, wet paint is applied onto a wet surface, resulting in beautifully soft, blended edges and naturally flowing colours. It’s perfect for painting skies, water, or dreamy, abstract backgrounds. Simply dampen your paper with clean water and then apply your watercolour. You’ll see the colours bloom and blend on the page, creating an effortless gradient.
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2. Wet-on-Dry Technique
Applying wet paint to a dry surface allows for more controlled lines and details. This technique is ideal for adding layers, defining shapes, and bringing detail into your painting. You can build up several layers to achieve depth, waiting for each layer to dry before applying the next.
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3. Dry Brush Technique
With minimal water on your brush, this technique creates rough, textured lines—great for adding texture to landscapes, trees, and grassy areas. Load your brush with paint and lightly drag it across the dry paper to achieve an effect similar to sketching with paint.
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4. Glazing Technique
Glazing involves applying transparent layers of colour on top of a dry layer. This technique helps to create depth and adjust colour tones subtly, as each new layer slightly shifts the hue and enhances luminosity.
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5. Lifting and Blotting
This technique allows you to lift or remove paint from the paper, usually to lighten areas or add highlights. To do this, dab a clean, damp brush or a sponge over the wet paint, or use a tissue to blot excess paint gently. It’s a helpful technique for creating clouds, highlights, or correcting small areas.
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6. Splattering
For a fun and spontaneous effect, splattering can add energy and texture to your work. Load a brush with paint, hold it over your paper, and gently tap it for a fine splatter. For larger splashes, flick your brush with a finger. This is great for adding texture to landscapes or creating a dynamic background.
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Mixing Colours with Watercolour Paint
Mixing colours in watercolour painting is a creative process that adds vibrancy and depth. Start with primary colours (red, blue, yellow) and mix them to create secondary colours (green, orange, purple). Experiment by mixing complementary colours (opposites on the colour wheel) to achieve unique shades or muted tones.
In addition to other watercolours, you can also mix certain compatible media for a unique effect:
Watercolour Pencils: These pencils combine the precision of coloured pencils with the fluidity of watercolours. Draw or shade areas, then use a wet brush to blend.
Ink or Watercolour Brush Pens: Adding ink details on top of the watercolour creates striking contrasts. You can outline shapes, add text, or highlight details after your watercolour layer has dried.
Gouache: Mix gouache with watercolours for added opacity. This can be helpful for adding highlights or small details without needing multiple layers.
Recommended Media for Watercolour Painting
The choice of media makes a significant difference in your watercolour results. Here’s what we recommend:
Watercolour Paper: Opt for high-quality watercolour paper, as it’s specifically designed to handle water without warping. Look for options like cold-pressed paper for texture or hot-pressed paper for a smoother finish. These papers will ensure that your watercolours absorb correctly and dry without unwanted curling.
Watercolour Paint Set: Using a comprehensive set, like one with primary, pastel, and metallic colours, offers flexibility. Metallic watercolours can add shimmer to your work, especially effective for highlights or to add a touch of luxury to any painting.
Palette: A mixing palette is essential for combining colours. Many watercolour sets come with palettes included, but a ceramic or plastic palette works well too.
Brushes: Choose brushes made for watercolours, like round, flat, and detail brushes. They are designed to hold and distribute water evenly. Synthetic brushes are affordable and durable, while natural hair brushes (such as sable) are known for their superior water retention and smooth flow.
Masking Fluid: This is a removable, water-resistant medium applied to areas you want to keep white. Apply it before painting; once your paint is dry, you can peel it away for clean, unpainted areas.
Watercolour Medium
Watercolour Pencils
Watercolour painting is a rewarding and versatile medium that allows you to create everything from serene landscapes to bold, abstract art. Whether you’re looking to master specific techniques or experiment with colour mixing, having the right supplies can make a big difference. Start with a quality watercolour set and paper pads to make the most of your creative exploration.
With these basics and some practice, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful, expressive watercolour art. Enjoy your painting journey!