Watercolor Painting Techniques

Creating an even coating of watercolor paint on a surface. The value and color remains consistent or the same throughout an area.

• Flat Wash

• Graded Wash

• Wet on Wet

• Dry Brush

Creating a gradient coating of watercolor paint on a surface; one that changes value or color.

• Flat Wash

• Graded Wash

• Wet on Wet

• Dry Brush

Painting on a surface that isn't dry creating a look that is characterized by bleeding or soft edges.

• Flat Wash

• Graded Wash

• Wet on Wet

• Dry Brush

Painting on a surface after removing most of the paint from your brush. A great technique for grass, hair or fur.

• Flat Wash

• Graded Wash

• Wet on Wet

• Dry Brush

Using tape or some other materials to cover areas, keeping paint from getting onto the paper in those spots.

• Masking

• Stippling

• Impasto

• Blotting

Using oil pastel or crayon to keep paint from sticking to a surface.

• Masking

• Straws/Blowing

• Wax Resist

• Blotting

Tapping your brush over your paper to create randomized dots or speckles of paint.

• Masking

• Salt

• Wax Resist

• Splatter Paint

Using a paper towel, napkin or tissue to pick up or absorb paint after you've applied it to a surface. This technique can be used to correct mistakes before paint dries.

• Blotting

• Salt

• Wax Resist

• Splatter Paint