Beginner's Guide to Watercolor Techniques

The wet-on-wet technique involves applying wet paint to wet paper, creating soft, blended effects.

How to do it:

1. Wet your paper with clean water.
2. While the paper is still damp, apply your watercolor paint.
3. Watch as the colors blend and spread on the wet surface.

This technique is great for creating atmospheric backgrounds or soft, dreamy effects.

The wet-on-dry technique involves applying wet paint to dry paper, allowing for more defined shapes and lines.

How to do it:

1. Start with dry paper.
2. Apply wet paint directly to the dry surface.
3. The paint will stay where you put it, allowing for more control.

This technique is useful for adding details or creating sharp edges in your painting.

The dry brush technique uses a dry brush with little water to create texture and detail.

How to do it:

1. Use a dry or slightly damp brush.
2. Load it with paint that's not too watery.
3. Lightly brush over dry paper, allowing the texture of the paper to show through.

This technique is excellent for adding texture to your paintings or creating fine details.

A wash creates a thin, transparent layer of color over a large area.

How to do it:

1. Wet your paper with clean water.
2. Mix your paint with plenty of water to create a diluted solution.
3. Apply the diluted paint evenly across the paper.

Washes are great for creating backgrounds or large areas of consistent color in your painting.