Watercolour painting

Watercolour is a beautiful and versatile painting technique loved by beginners and experienced artists alike. Watercolours allow you to create light, transparent, and vibrant crafts. This technique offers endless possibilities to experiment with colours, textures, and effects, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to express their creativity.

In this article, you'll find:

• An explanation of what watercolour painting is
• A list of the necessary materials
• Explanations of different watercolour techniques
• Tips for beginners and inspiration for your projects
• Answers to frequently asked questions
• An introduction to colour theory
• An explanation of how to combine watercolours with other techniques

There is no time to waste. Let's start with the basics and discover what makes watercolour
painting unique.

What exactly is watercolour painting?

Watercolour painting is a technique in which you apply paint, dissolved in water, onto paper. This method is known for its transparent layers and soft, smooth colour transitions. Watercolour paint is often made from pigments and a binder such as gum Arabic, which creates bright and vibrant colours. One of the most distinctive aspects of watercolours is its ability to capture light and shadow through transparent layers, creating a unique play of colours and shades.

This technique has a rich history and was used by many famous artists, such as J.M.W. Turner and John Singer Sargent. It’s a medium that can be both detailed and expressive, depending on how you use it. You can truly add your style to watercolour crafts, resulting in a huge variety of watercolour works. Watercolour painting offers endless opportunities to experiment with colours and effects, making it a beloved technique for many artists and hobbyists. Whether you want to create subtle landscapes or bold abstract works, watercolour painting provides the flexibility to bring your vision to life.

Supplies you’ll need

To start watercolour painting, you'll need a few essential supplies. Here's a list of the basic materials you need to get started with watercolour painting:

• Paper: Specifically watercolour paper. This particular paper absorbs water well without warping.
• Watercolour paint: Available in tubes or pans, in various qualities and price ranges. What is a pan? These small blocks of paint can be stored in a paint box; they are dry and can be activated with water.
• Brushes: Different sizes and shapes, made of soft bristles. There are also special water brushes with a built-in water reservoir, allowing you to gradually add water as you go by gently squeezing the brush.
• Water: To dilute the paint and clean your brushes.

In addition, there are some optional supplies which can make your work easier and offer more possibilities. Think of palettes for mixing paint, masking fluid to keep certain parts of your work white, and varnish to protect your finished artwork.

Each of these materials contributes to the versatility and enjoyment of watercolour painting.

Watercolour paper

Watercolour paper is specially designed to absorb water and paint without warping or
tearing. Several types of watercolour paper are available, varying in texture, thickness, and composition. Choosing the right paper is essential for the success of your creations.

• Cold-pressed paper: This paper has a slight texture and is versatile. It’s perfect for both
  detailed work and large, expressive strokes.
• Hot-pressed paper: This paper has a smooth surface and is perfect for detailed work,
  including fine lines and detailed painting.
• Rough paper: This paper has a coarse texture, creating interesting effects with the
  paint. It is perfect for adding texture and depth to your work.

Choosing the right paper depends on your personal preference and the type of work you
want to create. Try different types of paper to find the one that suits you best. The right paper can make a significant difference in the appearance and quality of your artwork.

We recommend stretching your paper during preparation to ensure it absorbs water
and paint well and does not warp or buckle. Want to learn more about this? Check out our blog on stretching watercolour paper.

Watercolour paint

Watercolour paint is available in various forms and qualities, most commonly in tubes and
pans. Choosing the right paint is crucial to achieving the desired effects in your paintings.

• Tubes: These contain liquid paint and are ideal for covering large areas and mixing.
  They offer intense colours and are easy to blend, allowing for a wide range of shades.
• Pans: These are small blocks of paint that are convenient for travel and detailed work.
  They are compact and easy to use, especially if you want to paint outdoors or while travelling.

The quality of watercolour paint ranges from student-grade to artist-grade. Artist-grade paint
contains more pigment and offers more intense colours and better lightfastness. While student-grade paint is a good option for beginners, investing in artist-grade paint can significantly improve the brightness and durability of your work. Sakura
and Van Gogh are well-known brands that offer high-quality watercolour paint.

Brushes

Brushes are a crucial part of watercolour painting. They come in different sizes and shapes, each suited for various techniques and effects. Good brushes can make a difference in the precision and ease with which you paint. Here are some types of brushes you should definitely consider:

• Round brushes: These are versatile and suitable for both details and larger areas. They are ideal for painting lines, dots, and flowing movements.
• Flat brushes: These are perfect for large, even strokes and square shapes. They are great for applying broad layers of paint and creating straight lines.
• Detail brushes: These small, fine brushes are perfect for detailed work. They are essential for adding fine details and accents to your paintings.
• Water brushes: Water brushes are paintbrushes with a built-in water reservoir. They
  are convenient for on-the-go painting and make mixing and diluting paint easy without needing a separate cup or container of water. They are perfect for creating soft, flowing transitions and washes.

It’s important to invest in good brushes that retain their shape and hold paint well. Well-maintained brushes can serve you for years and ensure consistent results in your work. Water brushes can add an extra dimension to your toolbox, making watercolour painting even more versatile and mobile.

Water

Water is essential in watercolour painting. You use it to dilute the paint, mix colours, and clean your brushes. Working with different amounts of water can significantly impact the final result of your work. Mastering the amount of water you use is one of the keys to successful watercolour painting.

Experiment with the ratio of water to paint to achieve different effects. More water creates lighter, more transparent colours, while less water produces more intense, concentrated colours. Learning to control the water ratio takes practice, but it opens the door to a wide range of creative possibilities.

Optional supplies

In addition to the basic materials, several optional items can assist you further in watercolour
painting. These extra materials can make your work easier and give you more control over the final result.

• Palette: A palette is helpful for mixing paint. It helps you blend colours and keep your paint organised while painting.
• Masking fluid: This liquid helps you preserve areas of your paper by covering them and keeping them white. It is especially useful for creating sharp edges and retaining white highlights in your work.
• Paper or watercolour tape: Use paper tape or special watercolour tape to secure your paper and prevent it from warping during painting. It also helps to create neat edges around your painting.
• Varnish: Use varnish to protect your finished artwork from dust and fading. It ensures your painting will remain in top condition.

Can I create a watercolour painting myself?

Absolutely! Watercolour painting is an accessible technique for everyone, regardless of your experience. Start with simple projects and experiment with different techniques. While watercolour requires some practice and patience, the process itself is very relaxing, and you'll progress quickly and develop your own style. You can start by familiarising yourself with the paint and trying different techniques. See how the paint reacts to wet or dry surfaces and discover which technique you prefer. Many beginners start with simple landscapes or flowers, as these subjects offer many opportunities to practice various techniques and become familiar with the paint and paper. As you gain confidence, you can explore more complex subjects and styles. The key is to have fun and not be discouraged by mistakes. Every artwork is a chance to learn and grow as a watercolour artist.

How to watercolour

We've put together a simple guide to help you step by step in creating your own watercolour masterpiece.

Step 1: Preparation

• Choose your subject: Decide what you want to paint. It could be a landscape, still life, flowers, or even abstract shapes.
• Sketch it out: Use a light pencil to sketch a rough outline of your subject on the watercolour paper. This will help you visualise how your painting will look.

Step 2: Mixing colours

• Prepare your paint: Mix your watercolour paint on a palette. Start with light colours and gradually move towards darker shades. Adding water helps to make the colour lighter and more transparent.

Step 3: Applying the first layer

• Start with a light wash: Use a large brush or waterbrush to apply a light layer of paint. This is the base layer, also called a 'wash,' and sets the overall tone of your painting.
• Let it dry: Allow the first layer to dry completely before proceeding to the next layer.

Step 4: Building layers

• Add depth: Apply multiple layers of paint to create depth and shadows. Use a smaller brush for detailed work. Make sure each layer is dry before adding a new one.\
• Use techniques: Experiment with different watercolour techniques, such as wet-on-wet (applying paint to wet paper) or wet-on-dry (applying paint to dry paper), to achieve various effects. Explore these techniques to choose the right one for achieving the effect you’re looking for.

Step 5: Adding details

• Work with waterbrushes: Waterbrushes are handy for adding fine details and accents. They allow you to control the amount of water and paint you use.
• Final touches: To complete your artwork, add final details and accents. These could be highlights, shadows, or small textures. Fine brushes are ideal for this.

Step 6: Finishing

• Let it dry: Ensure your painting is completely dry before framing or hanging it.
• Frame it: A beautiful frame can enhance your watercolour artwork. Choose a frame that complements the style and colours of your painting.

Watercolour techniques

There are various techniques you can use to achieve different effects with watercolour paint. Here are some of the most popular techniques:

Wet-on-wet

In this technique, you apply wet paint onto wet paper, causing the colours to blend softly into each other. This is perfect for creating background colours and soft transitions. The wet-on-wet technique can also be used to create misty or dreamy landscapes. It takes some practice to gauge the right amount of water and paint, but the results can be breathtaking.

Dry-on-wet

Here, you apply dry paint onto wet paper, which provides more control and detailed lines. This is useful for adding details to your work. The dry-on-wet technique can be used to create sharp edges and clear shapes. It's a great way to add depth and contrast to your paintings. This technique can also be used very well in combination with the wet-on-wet technique. Use the wet-on-wet technique to create a soft background and add sharp lines and details with dry paint over it.

Dry-on-dry

In this technique, you use dry paint on dry paper, resulting in sharp lines, detailed textures, and interesting variations in colour intensity. The dry-on-dry technique is ideal for painting detailed subjects like animals, hair, and architecture. It requires precision and patience, but the results are rewarding.

Pouring and dripping

Pouring and drip painting involve letting diluted paint drip and flow onto the paper. This can create interesting, unpredictable patterns and textures. It's a fun way to create abstract works and offers much room for experimentation. Pouring can also be used to create large, flowing backgrounds that add a dynamic feel to your paintings.

Salt technique

By sprinkling salt on wet paint, you can achieve unique textures and effects. The salt absorbs water and creates interesting patterns. This technique is perfect for adding texture and depth to your work. It is especially effective for painting seascapes, starry skies, and other natural textures.

What’s so great about watercolour painting?

Watercolour painting offers a unique way to be creative. Its transparent layers and flowing colours make it a versatile technique suitable for both detailed work and expressive paintings. Moreover, it's a relaxing and meditative activity that helps you escape your daily stress for a while.

The beauty of watercolours lies in their unpredictability and spontaneous nature. The water and paint interact to create unique effects and textures that are difficult to replicate. This makes each painting unique and full of surprises, making it one-of-a-kind. Additionally, watercolours allow for quick setup and cleanup, making them a perfect choice whether you prefer short creative sessions or longer projects.

Watercolour inspiration

Get inspired by beautiful watercolour artworks created by other artists. From serene landscapes to vibrant flowers and abstract compositions, the possibilities are endless. Explore artwork online, in books, or in museums to gather new ideas for your projects. There are also numerous online watercolour groups and communities where you can share your work and receive feedback from fellow watercolour enthusiasts.

Another great way to find inspiration is to go outdoors and observe nature. The colours, shapes, and textures found in nature are a great source of inspiration for your following watercolour paintings. Experiment with different subjects and styles to discover your unique artistic voice.

Vaessen Creative’s watercolour tips

Our experts at Vaessen Creative are eager to share their tips to enhance your watercolour experience:

• Choose the right materials: Invest in quality paint, paper, and brushes for the best results.
• Practice regularly: The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Consistency is key to progress.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new techniques and colour combinations. Creativity knows no bounds.
• Be patient: Watercolour painting can require time and patience, but the results are worth it. Please don’t get discouraged by mistakes; see them as learning experiences.
• Start simple: Begin with simple projects and gradually work up to more complex pieces. This helps you make progress step by step.

Frequently asked questions about watercolour painting

Which paints are best for beginners?

Choose student-grade watercolour paint. It is affordable and gives good results. As you become more skilled, you can consider switching to artist-grade paint.

How do I prevent my paper from bulging?

Use high-quality watercolour paper and tape it to your work surface. You can also wet your paper beforehand and let it dry for extra firmness.

How should I store my finished watercolours?

Store your artwork in a portfolio folder or frame it to protect it from dust and light. This helps keep the colours fresh and vibrant.

Colour theory

Colour theory plays a vital role in watercolours. What is colour theory? It might sound complex, but it's really not. Colour theory is essentially a guide to understanding and using colours effectively. Understanding how colours interact can help you create beautiful works of art. The three primary colours are red (magenta), blue (cyan), and yellow. From there, you can play with these colours. Mixing two primary colours allows you to create secondary colours: orange, green, and purple. You can continue mixing to create a wide range of colours. Experimenting with complementary, analogous, and triadic colour combinations can yield interesting results. Use colour wheels and mixing exercises to familiarise yourself with the possibilities of your colour palette.

Here are some key terms from colour theory:

Colour wheel

Think of a wheel with all different colours on it. The three primary colours are red, yellow, and blue. These are called primary colours because mixing them creates many other colours.

Secondary colours

Mixing two primary colours gives you a secondary colour. For example, mixing red and yellow gives you orange. Mixing blue and yellow gives you green. Mixing red and blue gives you purple.

Tertiary colours

Mixing a primary colour with a secondary colour gives you more colours. These are called tertiary colours.

Complementary colours

These colours are directly opposite each other on the colour wheel, such as red and green or blue and orange. They look vibrant and striking when used together.

Analogous colours

These are colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, such as red, orange, and yellow. They go well together and create a harmonious, calming effect.

Triadic colours

Triadic colours are sets of three colours that are evenly spaced around the colour wheel. Because they are evenly distributed, they form a perfect triangular pattern. Triadic colours create a balanced colour scheme that doesn't look too busy or chaotic.

Colour tints and tones

If you add white to a colour, you get a lighter tint of that colour. Adding black gives you a darker tone. This allows you to create many variations of a single colour.

Watercolour and mixed media

Watercolours can be beautifully combined with other media such as ink, pencil, and gouache. By blending different media, you can create unique textures and effects that elevate your work to another level. Experiment with adding details with ink or using gouache for more opaque highlights. Mixed media offers endless possibilities to explore your creativity.

Watercolour is a versatile and accessible art form that allows you to express your creativity in a unique way. Whether you're just starting or already have some experience, the tips, techniques, and inspiration we've shared will help you create beautiful works of art. Remember, practice, patience, and experimentation are the keys to success in watercolour painting.

At Vaessen Creative, we're always here to support you on your creative journey. With the right materials, a bit of inspiration, and plenty of enthusiasm, you can elevate your watercolour skills. We hope this blog has inspired you to get started and create your own masterpieces.

So grab your brushes, paper, and paint, and start watercolour today. Have fun crafting, and let your creativity flow!