Realistic Watercolor Sandwich Process

4/8/2018

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Hey there, fellow artists!

I'm easing back into my regular work routine after my trip to Canada and really wanted to make some time for a watercolor illustration I could have fun with.

Of course, I went with food!

Whilst in Toronto, I took a few pictures of food items I ordered at restaurants and cafes. I thought this sandwich would be a good one to get back into the flow of painting after my break.

Today's blog post will be a short one, but stay tuned for next Friday's post/YouTube video, because a meatier article related to how I stayed creative during my trip is in the works!

I'll be sharing specific tips to make traveling both enjoyable and productive as an artist.

Watercolor Painting Process

This is the original picture I took at the restaurant.

Sandwich picture

Before starting with the painting process, I sketched an outline drawing lightly, making sure to take advantage of my space on the large sheet of watercolor paper I set out to use. I wanted to challenge myself to create a larger illustration and went for a large 50 x 50 cms. of Canson Montval watercolor paper (185 g/m²).

First layers of watercolor paint

Supplies used for this watercolor painting:

Schmincke watercolor paint set

Princeton Neptune Watercolor Brushes

Canson Montval Cold Press Watercolor Paper

Scott Shop Absorbent Towels

For a full list of my current favorite art supplies, go here.

Midpoint of watercolor painting process

I wanted to enjoy myself with this illustration, but I also wanted to push myself and make it a bit more on the realistic side. Due to this, I knew I was going to have to work in layers and be patient until I arrived at the desired effect.

The whole illustration took me about four hours to create, counting drying times in between layers.

Nearing the end of the watercoloring process

Finished watercolor illustration

Ta-da!

I had a great time painting this sandwich and this piece will be a wonderful reminder of my trip to Toronto.

Thanks so much for dropping by today.

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13 Comments

Mary

4/11/2018 09:54:08 pm

Thank you for an idea. I never thought about taking puctures of everything.

Erika Lancaster

4/12/2018 08:32:59 am

Hi Mary! Great to see you over here! :)

I find taking pictures throughout my painting process is an awesome way of documenting your work AND also learning about your own way of doing things.

It helps me improve because I can tell where things started to go wrong, if and when they do, so that I can make sure to be more careful when I get to specific points in the process.

I recommend you try it sometime! :)

Be well!

4/12/2018 12:50:28 pm

I like to take pictures thru each section. Then. i decide where I have to add shading where is where my weakness is. Practicing on white also.
Mary thanks

Ligia

4/12/2018 12:54:09 am

Dear Erika I love the way you paint and the advises you give to us, beginners. Thank you so much.

4/12/2018 08:34:46 am

Hi Ligia,

Thanks so much for the kind words! :) I've been working hard to improve the last couple of years.

And you're very welcome! I'm glad you're finding my posts helpful.

Please stay in touch! I'd love to know how your art journey is progressing!

DANIELLE BRONSON link

4/12/2018 08:11:50 am

Oh my goodness I just adore this art work. I am so glad you shared it.

4/12/2018 08:36:01 am

Hi Danielle,

I'm happy you liked this painting! I really love creating food illustrations, for some strange reason. haha

I'll be sharing more soon!
Have a wonderful day! :)

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7/18/2022 06:32:38 am

Taking pictures of everything is an excellent idea. I never thought about it before.

Erika Lancaster link

7/22/2022 03:29:12 pm

Hey, there!
Yes! Taking pictures throughout your process can be such a great way to get to know your own way of doing things and to improve your art overall.
Thanks so much for checking this one out and for your comment.
Cheers!

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10/23/2022 04:08:31 am

This is such a beautiful piece of art. I am so glad you shared it with us.

10/23/2022 11:24:21 am

You're very kind. Thank you for popping by!
Wish you a great day.

Marius link

12/13/2024 07:26:36 am

Thank you for sharing this detailed breakdown of your watercolor sandwich process, Erika! As someone who enjoys exploring the layers of creativity over at PastelBrush.com, I find your approach to capturing such realistic detail truly inspiring. It’s fascinating how you build up the layers, almost like assembling a beautiful, edible creation. Your focus on patience and precision has definitely sparked some new ideas for my own work. I can’t wait to try incorporating more layering techniques into my next project!

12/16/2024 11:03:04 am

Hi, Marius!
Thanks so much for checking out this post and for taking the time to leave your thoughts. Happy you enjoyed it. Enjoy your art practice!

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