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WATERCOLORS

101
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Watercolor painting is both enjoyable and a bit frustrating at times. It is one of the most versatile media to work with. You can paint very loosely or very controlled.

Painting over an existing drawing will help you to learn and advance in this particular medium.

Use my suggestions, do your own research online, practice, and experiment - you will see how quickly you will get addicted to this art form. But here is a good starting point.

Please keep in mind - the painting tips below are focused on coloring an existing art print.

In addition to a set of paints (I prefer "Yarka" or "St.Petersburg"), you will need:

brushes

Watercolor brushes have the ability to hold water (and paint) by having a fatter belly and thinner hair.
If you can afford only one brush, buy a #8 round red sable watercolor brush. Otherwise buy the best synthetic or synthetic-blend brush you can find. Adding a round #4 and a 1″ flat would come in handy for detail work and large washes. Most manufacturers have starter sets that contain very usable equivalents.

board and tape

Definitely use it!

Tape the print on all 4 sides to the board. It will not only protect it, but will keep it flat and prevent from warping due to the use of water.

water cup

Change water frequently. No reason to make your painting "muddy".

paper towel

You will need a cloth, a paper towel, or paper wipes. Use them to remove excess water/paint from your brush and for cleaning the brush in between colors.

I usually keep it on a plastic tray or a paper plate as it does get wet - you don't want to ruin your furniture.

palette

Use plastic palettes - they do not absorb water and keep the paint wet.

Dried paint can be reused with some water.

more information will be added later....

EXERCISES:

watercolor basics

basics

watercolor landscape

landscape

watercolors flower

flower coloring