Watercolour Painting Techniques

Introduction to Watercolour

Watercolour painting is a captivating art form that relies on the fluidity and transparency of water mixed with pigment. Unlike opaque paints like oil or acrylic, watercolour creates delicate washes and subtle gradations, offering a unique aesthetic. Mastering watercolour requires understanding the behaviour of the paint, controlling your brushstrokes, and embracing the unpredictable nature of the medium.

Basic Techniques

Wet-on-Wet

This technique involves applying wet paint onto a wet surface, creating soft edges and blended colors. It's ideal for skies, clouds, and atmospheric effects.

Wet-on-Dry

Applying wet paint onto dry paper creates sharp edges and allows for greater control over detail.

Graduated Wash

Creating a smooth, blended wash by applying paint in overlapping strokes from dark to light.

Lifting

Removing paint from the paper using a damp brush or sponge to create highlights or correct mistakes.

Advanced Techniques

Beyond the basics, watercolour offers a range of advanced techniques for creating complex effects and textures. These require more practice and control but can yield stunning results.

• Dry Brush Technique: Using a dry brush with minimal water to create textured marks, often simulating fur or foliage.
• Glazing: Applying thin, transparent layers of colour over dried layers to build up depth and richness.
• Stippling: Creating dots of paint to build tone and texture.
• Sgraing: A combination of wet and dry brushwork for a layered effect with varying textures.

Paper & Materials

The choice of paper and brushes significantly impacts your watercolour results. Arches paper is highly recommended for its absorbency and durability.

• Papers: Hot Press (smooth) or Cold Press (textured)
• Brushes: Round, Flat, Filbert – each suited to different strokes
• Water Containers: Two containers are helpful - one for rinsing and one for clean water.
• Masking Fluid: Used to protect areas of the paper while painting over them.