*This post contains affiliate links. I receive small commissions for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. These commissions help me keep this site up and running, in order for me to keep providing helpful and inspiring art content. :)
What does the term "Color Temperature" refer to, exactly? How can you tell if colors are warm or cool and why is this important? How can you change a color's temperature? What happens with grays and browns? Color Theory can seem like a daunting art fundamental to start learning about, especially because it encompasses so much. This said, it is essential for any artist who makes use of color in drawings or paintings to expand their knowledge about color and color mixing as this will greatly increase the quality of their work. In the following video, I share must know information for beginners getting started, as well as for more advanced artists who find Color Temperature confusing. I also provide a very powerful exercise that I'd highly recommend working on, as it'll help you build a solid foundation so that you can advance your skills faster. After finishing the exercise, I also explain how to tell if grays and browns are warm or cool, as well as how to create darker or lighter versions of these "neutrals".
If you enjoyed this video and found it helpful, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. I share a brand new video every week with art tips, drawing and painting tutorials and mindset/productivity tips for artists. *Subscribe HERE*
Step 1. Create two 6-part color wheel templates Find a circular object to trace around that isn't too big or too small, and fits in your watercolor sheet twice. Using a pencil, trace around it twice, to create two circles. Use a ruler to divide the circle into 6 triangular "pie pieces". Use a black pen or marker to trace over your pencil work and label your color wheels as "warm" and "cool". Step 2. Choose your warm and cool primary paint colors Swatch out different reds, blues and yellows you have available. Using the information below, decide which will be your three warm primaries and your three cool primaries. *Feel free to combine watercolor brands for this exercise if necessary. Blues:
Make sure to write down the names of the colors you'll be using for each wheel. You don't want to start using another blue, red or yellow as you're filling in your wheels. 
Warm and Cool color swatches
Step 3. First fill in your primaries and then your secondaries
Whether you decide to start with your warm or cool wheel, begin by filling in your primaries and then fill in the secondaries in-between.
Think of your secondary colors as the "babies" that sit in-between the two primary colors that create them.
*Pro Tip: When working on Color Wheel exercises, it is important to keep paint puddles well organized on your palette so that they don't seep into each other. Also, make sure you rinse out your paintbrush bristles in-between each color, so that you don't contaminate the next. 
Final Warm and Cool Color Wheels
Once you're done, take time to analyze your color wheels. What differences do you notice between them? Are there brighter or more saturated colors in one of them? What primaries and secondaries do you personally prefer? Extra practice: Try mixing browns and grays using your primary colors. Hint: If you mix enough of two complementary colors (opposites in the color wheel), you'll get a gray or brown. Also, test the neutrals you have available in your watercolor sets (grays, blacks, browns), and compare them with each other. Which look warmer and which look cooler to you? What primary colors can you add to these ready-made neutrals to shift their temperature? Supplies used in video
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Size 14 round was used in tutorial video.
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*This post contains affiliate links. I receive small commissions for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. These commissions help me keep this site up and running, in order for me to keep providing helpful and inspiring art content. :)
Can watercolor pencils be used to create higher levels of realism? How do you prepare for a successful watercolor pencil painting? How can I choose my colors in order to arrive at cohesive, harmonious results? Can watercolor pencils be layered?
Watercolor pencils are such an exciting art medium!
However, it can be tricky to learn to use them because they are both a drawing and a painting medium, all wrapped up in one.
They can be used in a variety of different ways, depending on the outcome you wish to create.
Do you enjoy drawing mediums and the "sketchy" texture they create? Consider using less water throughout the process.
Do you enjoy more of a painterly effect?
Bring in more water throughout the process to "activate" your pigment.
Looking for a combo of pencil texture and painterly effects?
Use both techniques!
After years of honing my skills with watercolor pencils, I'm happy to say that I've found a process, and specific supplies, that lead to the results I love, every time.
In the full tutorial below, as well as others I've shared over at my YouTube channel (I have a full watercolor pencil playlist!), I spill the tea on my favorite techniques and main tips that have helped me create better work.
The tutorial below includes:
-My 5-Phase process for painting with watercolor pencils
-How I create my preliminary sketch using pencil
-How I pick the specific colors I'll be needing for higher levels of realism
-How I layer watercolor pencils to develop believable depth
-How I activate watercolor pencils with water
-How I avoid overworking my watercolor pencil pieces
-How I bring in a "wildcard color" to push contrast as well as develop greater color integration and harmony
-How to create subtle textures
-Must-know tips for success
Watercolor Pencil Orange Still Life by Erika Lancaster
If you enjoyed this video and found it helpful, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. I share a brand new video every week with art tips, drawing and painting tutorials and mindset/productivity tips for artists. *Subscribe HERE*
Original Reference photo can be found here.
Original Reference photo can be found here.
My 5-Phase Watercolor Painting Process
1. First Layer
Use watercolor pencils like traditional colored pencils to start layering process.
Make sure you're planning for highlight areas in order to keep them protected throughout the painting process, and start developing values using your first (lightest colors) in each area.
We're working from lights to darks, and our aim is to develop a wide range of values/tones, from very light lights to very dark darks.
This is what will help us create a believable sensation of depth.
*Highlight areas are going to be left free of pigment as the whiteness of the paper will stand in place for these lightest value areas.
*Lighter midtone areas are going to have less pigment applied on them.
*Darkest value areas will have more layering of color on them, and the paper will be covered up more.
Use watercolor pencils like traditional colored pencils to start layering process.
Make sure you're planning for highlight areas in order to keep them protected throughout the painting process, and start developing values using your first (lightest colors) in each area.
We're working from lights to darks, and our aim is to develop a wide range of values/tones, from very light lights to very dark darks.
This is what will help us create a believable sensation of depth.
*Highlight areas are going to be left free of pigment as the whiteness of the paper will stand in place for these lightest value areas.
*Lighter midtone areas are going to have less pigment applied on them.
*Darkest value areas will have more layering of color on them, and the paper will be covered up more.
2. First Activation With Water
Activate pigment using a paintbrush and a small amount of water. Make sure you're using an absorbent towel to help you stay on top of water control.
Try making your way from light value areas, toward darker areas and keep removing pigment from your paintbrush bristles along the way.
*Allow to dry completely.*
3. Second Layer
Start layering color to develop darker midtone areas and darkest darks using the medium color and darkest color that you've chosen for each section.
Observe the reference photo in order to avoid layering more pigment in lighter value areas.
Make sure you only apply more pigment in areas that require darkening.
Check out my FREE Patreon-exclusive tutorial and class samples here.
4. Second Activation With Water
Activate pigment using a paintbrush and a small amount of water, focusing mostly on areas where you just applied more pigment in, in the previous step.
*Allow to dry completely.*
*Allow to dry completely.*
5. Third Layer
Using your medium and darkest colors that you've chosen for each section of your painting, focus on pushing darkest shadow areas to increase tonal contrast, which will enhance depth.
*Optional: Bring in a "wildcard color" such as a dark blue or purple, to help you push darkest shadow areas all throughout the piece. This will help add interest, greater color harmony and personality to the piece.
Art Supplies Used In Video
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What, exactly, does the term 'flow state' mean? Why is it important for artists and creatives to experience it on a more consistent basis? How can I get into 'flow state' as I'm working on my art?
We experience 'flow state' or 'creative flow' when we're fully immersed in a task, whether it be painting, drawing, sculpting, writing, or playing music.
Our minds and bodies seem to be working in unison when we're experiencing a state of flow.
Unsurprisingly, it leads to our best art...without us even trying too hard.
There are no negative voices coming from inside us, critiquing our every move.
Distractions seem to be non-existent.
Most of all, we're enjoying what we're doing so much, that time seems to fly by, or it seems to be suspended altogether.
'Flow state' is a term that's mostly used in the creative world, but it's important to know that someone can experience this while doing many different activities.
We can feel it when we're cooking, cleaning, driving, doing some type of task in our day job...
Athletes are also known to experience it when their playing their sport.
However, the arts are incredibly mind and body intensive, and it can be difficult to get back into flow after it's lost.
Not to mention, today's fast-paced/distraction-filled world seems to be the antithesis of the focus and time required to do creative work.
For many of us, it can seem nearly impossible to get into flow state.
But it's important to experience it because it's when we create our best work and when we enjoy ourselves most.
This leads to greater consistency and more growth over time.
In the video below, I tell you how to do this!
If you enjoyed this video and found it helpful, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. I share a brand new video every week with art tips, drawing and painting tutorials and mindset/productivity tips for artists. *Subscribe HERE*
How to experience a state of flow more consistently as an artist
1. Prepare yourself mentally and physically before sitting down to draw or paint
When you're feeling relaxed and ready to focus, it'll not only show in your work, but you'll enjoy the art-making process much more.
Instead of jumping straight into drawing or painting when you're stressed out and have lots of things on your mind, take 5-10 minutes to prepare your working area so that's inspiring and comfortable, as well as to get into the right headspace.
Explore breath work, taking a walk outside, meditation, journaling, stretching, dancing or simply listening to music.
Find a little pre art-making ritual that works for you and do it.
2. Avoid multitasking and distractions
In today's world, it feels like there are 50 things calling our attention, all at once, 24/7.
However, I assure you that, outside of work and responsibilities we have with our loved ones, nothing is really that important.
Working on your personal goals and making time for what fulfills you is more important than wasting your most valuable resource (time), scrolling on social media, watching alarming news, and binge-watching the latest t.v. shows.
It's essential to establish the days and times that you'll be devoting to your art practice, and to let your loved ones know when you'll be working.
Schedule it in your calendar/weekly agenda, just like any other appointment or important task you need to get done.
During these times, silence your phone, close your email and other unnecessary tabs/windows on your electronic devices, and only use the media you need for your art creation.
Focus!
It may seem impossible at first but, the more you practice this, the easier it becomes.
3. Make sure you're working within the Goldilocks Zone
I talk about the Goldilocks Zone in this video.
In order to experience this beautiful state of flow, it's essential to pick projects (or studies) with your current skill level in mind.
This is because you need to be able to go in with a certain level of confidence in order to "let go".
If everything is completely new to you, and the piece on hand requires methods, techniques and/or information that you've never practiced or learned before, it's going to be impossible for you to do this.
The process on hand needs to be familiar enough for you to get to a certain point relatively easily, but just challenging enough to feel like you're pushing yourself a tad past your comfort zone.
*Bonus tip:
Remember that not everything you create has to be a masterpiece or even "good".
As artists, it's not only healthy, but important, to give ourselves permission to experiment and even fail.
Practice creating art for the process and discovery it brings, not for the sole purpose of creating a perfect product.
Stop overthinking, allow yourself to play and let the chips fall where they may.
1. Prepare yourself mentally and physically before sitting down to draw or paint
When you're feeling relaxed and ready to focus, it'll not only show in your work, but you'll enjoy the art-making process much more.
Instead of jumping straight into drawing or painting when you're stressed out and have lots of things on your mind, take 5-10 minutes to prepare your working area so that's inspiring and comfortable, as well as to get into the right headspace.
Explore breath work, taking a walk outside, meditation, journaling, stretching, dancing or simply listening to music.
Find a little pre art-making ritual that works for you and do it.
2. Avoid multitasking and distractions
In today's world, it feels like there are 50 things calling our attention, all at once, 24/7.
However, I assure you that, outside of work and responsibilities we have with our loved ones, nothing is really that important.
Working on your personal goals and making time for what fulfills you is more important than wasting your most valuable resource (time), scrolling on social media, watching alarming news, and binge-watching the latest t.v. shows.
It's essential to establish the days and times that you'll be devoting to your art practice, and to let your loved ones know when you'll be working.
Schedule it in your calendar/weekly agenda, just like any other appointment or important task you need to get done.
During these times, silence your phone, close your email and other unnecessary tabs/windows on your electronic devices, and only use the media you need for your art creation.
Focus!
It may seem impossible at first but, the more you practice this, the easier it becomes.
3. Make sure you're working within the Goldilocks Zone
I talk about the Goldilocks Zone in this video.
In order to experience this beautiful state of flow, it's essential to pick projects (or studies) with your current skill level in mind.
This is because you need to be able to go in with a certain level of confidence in order to "let go".
If everything is completely new to you, and the piece on hand requires methods, techniques and/or information that you've never practiced or learned before, it's going to be impossible for you to do this.
The process on hand needs to be familiar enough for you to get to a certain point relatively easily, but just challenging enough to feel like you're pushing yourself a tad past your comfort zone.
*Bonus tip:
Remember that not everything you create has to be a masterpiece or even "good".
As artists, it's not only healthy, but important, to give ourselves permission to experiment and even fail.
Practice creating art for the process and discovery it brings, not for the sole purpose of creating a perfect product.
Stop overthinking, allow yourself to play and let the chips fall where they may.
Check out my FREE Patreon-exclusive tutorial and class samples here!
*Articles on Creative Flow:
How to get into Creative Flow State by Jake McNeill
Traits of Flow According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi by Mike Oppland
Creative Flow as a Unique Cognitive Process by Charlotte L. Doyle
*Articles on Creative Flow:
How to get into Creative Flow State by Jake McNeill
Traits of Flow According to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi by Mike Oppland
Creative Flow as a Unique Cognitive Process by Charlotte L. Doyle
*This post contains affiliate links. I receive small commissions for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. These commissions help me keep this site up and running, in order for me to keep providing helpful and inspiring art content. :)
What is masking fluid, exactly? What can it be used for when painting with watercolor? How do you avoid damaging your paper and other accidents when bringing masking fluid into the watercolor painting process?
Though masking fluid is not necessary for beautiful watercolor paintings, it is a great tool to learn about and start exploring when you're looking to take your skills to the next level.
Masking fluid (otherwise known as liquid frisket) is, essentially, liquid latex.
It's placed on paper in liquid state and dries quickly, creating a "film" that will keep areas of your watercolor paper protected so that you can go about freely painting over them.
This is important because, when painting with watercolor, the white paper stands in place for our highlights and helps us create light value areas.
*No white paint is necessary as we're using the medium's translucency, in combination with the white paper underneath, to develop our different values/tones.*
If we don't plan for highlights or light value areas, our paintings are going to lack dimension and that "glow" that is so particular to watercolor.
If we don't find ways to integrate the paper as part of the painting, we'll likely end up with a piece that looks flat, heavy, and even overworked.
Yes, we can plan for highlight shapes and simply work around them without using masking fluid, but in some cases, this can be very challenging and it can feel like walking on eggshells.
Especially because, once we've painted our paper, there's no going back to the whiteness the paper once had.
What is masking fluid, exactly? What can it be used for when painting with watercolor? How do you avoid damaging your paper and other accidents when bringing masking fluid into the watercolor painting process?
Though masking fluid is not necessary for beautiful watercolor paintings, it is a great tool to learn about and start exploring when you're looking to take your skills to the next level.
Masking fluid (otherwise known as liquid frisket) is, essentially, liquid latex.
It's placed on paper in liquid state and dries quickly, creating a "film" that will keep areas of your watercolor paper protected so that you can go about freely painting over them.
This is important because, when painting with watercolor, the white paper stands in place for our highlights and helps us create light value areas.
*No white paint is necessary as we're using the medium's translucency, in combination with the white paper underneath, to develop our different values/tones.*
If we don't plan for highlights or light value areas, our paintings are going to lack dimension and that "glow" that is so particular to watercolor.
If we don't find ways to integrate the paper as part of the painting, we'll likely end up with a piece that looks flat, heavy, and even overworked.
Yes, we can plan for highlight shapes and simply work around them without using masking fluid, but in some cases, this can be very challenging and it can feel like walking on eggshells.
Especially because, once we've painted our paper, there's no going back to the whiteness the paper once had.
Masking fluid was used here to keep metal rings and white seems, and other light shapes protected throughout the painting process. It was placed with a paintbrush and toothpicks.
*This real-time, fully-narrated watercolor tutorial is available on Patreon.*
Aside from using masking fluid to protect highlight areas, it can be used to create textures and interesting effects.
You can place it on paper using different tools such as paintbrushes, pens, an old toothbrush, toothpicks, etc., depending on your objectives and the effects you're after.
Aside from using masking fluid to protect highlight areas, it can be used to create textures and interesting effects.
You can place it on paper using different tools such as paintbrushes, pens, an old toothbrush, toothpicks, etc., depending on your objectives and the effects you're after.
Masking fluid was used here to block out white flowers and to create grass texture. It was placed with toothpicks.
*This real-time, fully-narrated watercolor tutorial is available on Patreon.*
*A word of caution*
*A word of caution*
Because masking fluid is liquid latex, it's important to work in a well-ventilated area.
It's also important to take precautions if you'll be using paintbrushes.
I'd never recommend using your favorite watercolor brushes to place masking fluid, as it can very easily damage your paintbrush bristles.
While there are certain things you can do to protect your paintbrush bristles such as coating them with dishwashing soap or liquid hand soap before dipping them into masking fluid, they'll still get damaged them over time.
The 10 must-know masking fluid tips shared in the video below will help you use masking fluid more effectively and avoid undesired accidents.
If you enjoyed this video and found it helpful, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. I share a brand new video every week with art tips, drawing and painting tutorials and mindset/productivity tips for artists. *Subscribe HERE*
Using Masking Fluid With Watercolor- 5 Best Tips
1. Go in with a strategy and make time for practice whenever needed
Before placing your masking fluid, set specific objectives you have for it.
For example:
- Will you be using your masking fluid to block out highlight areas?
- Will you be using it to describe a specific kind of texture (wood, grass, etc.)?
I'd recommend writing down the phases/steps that you're thinking of going through in order to arrive at your desired outcome.
Decide at what point in the process you'll be removing your masking fluid.
*As an FYI: I tend to remove my masking fluid when I'm around 70%-80% of the way through the painting process.
Finally, would it be helpful for you to practice laying down thin lines, marks or shapes with your masking fluid placement tool on a scrap piece of paper before applying it on your final piece?
*If you've never used the tool before, the answer should always be 'yes'!
2. Explore different tools for placing your masking fluid
Don't close yourself off and use only one single tool for masking fluid placement!
Explore and experiment with different "alternative" tools that'll help you create different effects, such as toothpicks for thin/tapered lines or an old toothbrush for splattering effects.
I only use brushes when I have to fill in medium to large shapes or areas.
I love bringing in toothpicks to create grass textures in landscapes or scenes, and doing splattering with old brushes with stiff bristles for interesting textures.
Different tools will create very different effects, and exploring will open up your horizons to help you arrive at unique results.
3. When using paintbrushes, protect them!
As a rule of thumb, I never use watercolor brushes I like and use for painting, to place my masking fluid.
This is because masking fluid can very quickly damage those bristles and leave paintbrushes completely unusable.
Not only does masking fluid dry fast and hard on paintbrush bristles, but it's impossible to remove after it has dried.
Whenever you do need to bring in a paintbrush for masking fluid placement, I'd recommend using older/cheaper brushes that you don't care for much.
I's also suggest protecting its bristles by coating them with soap (liquid hand soap, dishwashing soap or bar soap all work), before dipping your paintbrush in masking fluid.
4. Mind your paper
Using masking fluid on cheap or thin paper is a huge no-no because it's highly likely that you'll damage it when it is removed.
If you're going to be bringing in masking fluid, you want to make sure that you're using quality paper that can tolerate this kind of technique, such as this one from Arches or this one from Canson.
I always make sure to use watercolor paper that's at least 140 lbs/300 gsm in thickness or weight, as well as 100% cotton.
If I'm trying out new paper, I make sure to do some tests before applying masking fluid on my final piece.
5. Allow things to dry
When you're using masking fluid for watercolor painting, make sure that you:
a) Place your masking fluid on dry paper. Unless you're really going for more explorational techniques which you've tried out before working on your final piece.
b) Allow it to dry completely before painting over it. If you're using colorless masking fluid, it should look yellowish and transparent, and no longer opaque white. When dry, it feels tacky but no longer sticky to the touch.
c) Make sure your painting is completely dry before you remove it. I wouldn't recommend using a hair dryer or other tool to speed up the drying process when masking fluid has been placed on paper as the heat can make the fluid adhere more strongly.
*How long masking fluid takes to dry will depend on how thinly or thickly its been placed on paper, as well as the temperature and humidity of the environment you're working in. It can take anywhere from 5 minutes to 30 minutes to dry.
*You can use clean, dry hands to gently rub off your masking fluid, or a rubber cement pick up.
6. Soften edges or making masked out shapes smaller whenever needed
If, after having removed your masking fluid, you feel that you've been left with stark white shapes that are too large, you can always soften edges or make those shapes smaller.
Soften edges by going over them with *gentle* scrubbing using a clean, slightly damp brush. I make sure to do this very gently and only 2-3 times max over the same area in order not to damage my paper.
You can also paint inside the shapes to make them smaller. When I do this, I make sure to go in with watered down/pale color and build up from there if needed.
Check out my FREE Patreon-exclusive tutorial and class samples here.
7. Don't shake your bottle!
Shaking your bottle creates air bubbles, which can make it more difficult to place your masking fluid on paper effectively.
Air bubbles can lead to undesired textures and effects, as the masking fluid is not placed evenly on your paper.
If you need to add in a bit of water to slightly modify your masking fluid's consistency (more on this in the next point), use a stick or tool to gently/slowly stir them together to create a homogenous mixture.
8. You can add a bit of water to change the consistency
Over time and as air enters your masking fluid bottle, it's likely that its consistency will change and become thicker.
You can add a bit of water to it to change its consistency if you're finding it difficult to place on paper, but make sure that you don't add too much!
Adding too much water will change the fluid's resistant properties and it won't be able to do it's work.
I'd recommend adding a drop of water at a time, mixing it in gently, and adding just a couple more if needed. You can use a pipette for this.
9. Make sure you're closing your masking fluid bottle tight
When you're done, close your bottle as tightly as possible and store it in a cool, dry place.
If air is able to get into the bottle, your masking fluid will thicken way faster and become unusable.
10. Don't leave masking fluid on your paper for too long
Because masking fluid can adhere more strongly to paper over time, be careful not to leave it on too long.
If you leave it on too long or pull it off too quickly, your paper can get damaged/torn. I've never had any problems with Arches paper, even after leaving it on for over two weeks, but other papers are more prone to tearing.
How long you're able to leave your masking fluid on watercolor paper is going to vary depending on the quality of the paper, its thickness, and the environment it's stored in.
As a rule of thumb, now-a-days, I try to not leave it on my paper for more than a week.
7. Don't shake your bottle!
Shaking your bottle creates air bubbles, which can make it more difficult to place your masking fluid on paper effectively.
Air bubbles can lead to undesired textures and effects, as the masking fluid is not placed evenly on your paper.
If you need to add in a bit of water to slightly modify your masking fluid's consistency (more on this in the next point), use a stick or tool to gently/slowly stir them together to create a homogenous mixture.
8. You can add a bit of water to change the consistency
Over time and as air enters your masking fluid bottle, it's likely that its consistency will change and become thicker.
You can add a bit of water to it to change its consistency if you're finding it difficult to place on paper, but make sure that you don't add too much!
Adding too much water will change the fluid's resistant properties and it won't be able to do it's work.
I'd recommend adding a drop of water at a time, mixing it in gently, and adding just a couple more if needed. You can use a pipette for this.
9. Make sure you're closing your masking fluid bottle tight
When you're done, close your bottle as tightly as possible and store it in a cool, dry place.
If air is able to get into the bottle, your masking fluid will thicken way faster and become unusable.
10. Don't leave masking fluid on your paper for too long
Because masking fluid can adhere more strongly to paper over time, be careful not to leave it on too long.
If you leave it on too long or pull it off too quickly, your paper can get damaged/torn. I've never had any problems with Arches paper, even after leaving it on for over two weeks, but other papers are more prone to tearing.
How long you're able to leave your masking fluid on watercolor paper is going to vary depending on the quality of the paper, its thickness, and the environment it's stored in.
As a rule of thumb, now-a-days, I try to not leave it on my paper for more than a week.
Recommended supplies:
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Daniel Smith Watercolor Tubes
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Hope this one was helpful.
If you have any other masking fluid tips of your own to share, or any questions, feel free to leave them below.
Enjoy your art practice!
*This post contains affiliate links. I receive small commissions for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. These commissions help me keep this site up and running, in order for me to keep providing helpful and inspiring art content. :)
Looking for new techniques to make your watercolor paintings more unique and interesting? What are watercolor blooms and how are they created?
Watercolor is a challenging, but extremely rewarding painting medium.
As opposed to mediums like acrylics or oils, watercolor encourages us to be light-handed, to embrace surprises, and to not overly describe our subjects.
Because plenty of water is brought in throughout the painting process, there's only so much that we can actually control.
In order to arrive at great watercolor paintings, we must learn to balance between strategizing and letting go.
Yes, it's important to think critically and go in with a plan in order to arrive at the results that we're after, but it's also important to allow the water/paint to do their own thing and to embrace surprises that happen along the way.
By learning new techniques, we develop a deeper knowledge of the medium and discover new ways to make more intentional use of the unique effects that watercolor allows.
Blooms are one of the effects that this medium is known for. They are a great technique to know about, as they can help us add great visual textures, as well as deliberate points of interest to our artwork.
Looking for new techniques to make your watercolor paintings more unique and interesting? What are watercolor blooms and how are they created?
Watercolor is a challenging, but extremely rewarding painting medium.
As opposed to mediums like acrylics or oils, watercolor encourages us to be light-handed, to embrace surprises, and to not overly describe our subjects.
Because plenty of water is brought in throughout the painting process, there's only so much that we can actually control.
In order to arrive at great watercolor paintings, we must learn to balance between strategizing and letting go.
Yes, it's important to think critically and go in with a plan in order to arrive at the results that we're after, but it's also important to allow the water/paint to do their own thing and to embrace surprises that happen along the way.
By learning new techniques, we develop a deeper knowledge of the medium and discover new ways to make more intentional use of the unique effects that watercolor allows.
Blooms are one of the effects that this medium is known for. They are a great technique to know about, as they can help us add great visual textures, as well as deliberate points of interest to our artwork.
Kingfisher watercolor painting by Erika Lancaster.
Today, I'm excited to share another very helpful guest blog post that shares lots of information about watercolor blooms, and 5 different ways they can be created.
Dee Maene is a London-based artist and art teacher. She has a deep love for watercolor and enjoys exploring different artistic mediums, including digital drawing and painting. Dee enjoys bringing in experimentation and play into her creative practice, and has a passion to encourage others to do the same. She likes pushing herself artistically, and strives to produce artwork that's not only beautiful, but meaningful.
Without much further ado, let's jump into her article!
5 Ways To Create Beautiful Watercolor Blooms
By Dee Maene
Watercolor blooms are a great way to add life to your paintings. They are also not only incredibly satisfying to create, but relatively easy to do once you get the hang of water control.
Blooms happen when a drop of water falls on wet paint and spreads, pushing the paint that's on the paper outwards. They can be created by dropping in clean water into paint, or by dropping in more paint into paint, as long as that initial layer of water/paint is still wet.
Watercolor blooms are one of the most magical things that can happen when painting with this medium. They are unique to watercolor and definitely add an element of surprise to the painting process.
Another reason why it's important to know different ways to create blooms, is because they enable us to create softer effects that have a more ethereal quality than regular brushstrokes, which can add variety and a touch of elegance to your paintings.
So, if you're looking to add a little bit of magic to your watercolor paintings, definitely try experimenting with blooms!
There's a variety of different ways blooms can be created and, in this blog post, I'll be sharing 5 techniques that you can start using today.
Technique 1: Dropping a Single Color On Water (Basic Watercolor Bloom Technique)
One of the simplest and most effective ways to create a watercolor bloom is to drop a single color into water that's been applied on your painting surface.
The bloom will happen naturally as the paint spreads out into the water. This technique is especially effective with darker colors, such as blues and greens.
Step-by-step process:
1. Pre-wet a section of your paper with clean water using a larger brush and going over the area at least 3-4 times to arrive at an even sheen.
2. Swivel your paintbrush in your container of water to pre-wet it, and load it with nice, juicy color you've prepared on your mixing palette.
3. Touch the tip of your brush to the surface of the water.
4. Allow the color to drop from the brush onto the water.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until you have achieved the desired effect.
6. Allow the bloom to dry before adding additional colors or details.
This basic technique can be used to create a wide variety of effects, from delicate flowers in landscapes and scenes, to textures and points of interest in abstract pieces.
With a little practice, you'll be able to produce beautiful blooms that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Watercolor blooms are a great way to add life to your paintings. They are also not only incredibly satisfying to create, but relatively easy to do once you get the hang of water control.
Blooms happen when a drop of water falls on wet paint and spreads, pushing the paint that's on the paper outwards. They can be created by dropping in clean water into paint, or by dropping in more paint into paint, as long as that initial layer of water/paint is still wet.
Watercolor blooms are one of the most magical things that can happen when painting with this medium. They are unique to watercolor and definitely add an element of surprise to the painting process.
Another reason why it's important to know different ways to create blooms, is because they enable us to create softer effects that have a more ethereal quality than regular brushstrokes, which can add variety and a touch of elegance to your paintings.
So, if you're looking to add a little bit of magic to your watercolor paintings, definitely try experimenting with blooms!
There's a variety of different ways blooms can be created and, in this blog post, I'll be sharing 5 techniques that you can start using today.
Technique 1: Dropping a Single Color On Water (Basic Watercolor Bloom Technique)
One of the simplest and most effective ways to create a watercolor bloom is to drop a single color into water that's been applied on your painting surface.
The bloom will happen naturally as the paint spreads out into the water. This technique is especially effective with darker colors, such as blues and greens.
Step-by-step process:
1. Pre-wet a section of your paper with clean water using a larger brush and going over the area at least 3-4 times to arrive at an even sheen.
2. Swivel your paintbrush in your container of water to pre-wet it, and load it with nice, juicy color you've prepared on your mixing palette.
3. Touch the tip of your brush to the surface of the water.
4. Allow the color to drop from the brush onto the water.
5. Repeat steps 3-4 until you have achieved the desired effect.
6. Allow the bloom to dry before adding additional colors or details.
This basic technique can be used to create a wide variety of effects, from delicate flowers in landscapes and scenes, to textures and points of interest in abstract pieces.
With a little practice, you'll be able to produce beautiful blooms that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Dropping paint into wet paper.
Technique 2: Dropping In Two Colors
The graded watercolor blooms technique is achieved by dropping two colors side-by-side on wet paper. The colors will mix together where they meet and create a bloom effect.
This technique is best achieved with two colors that have high levels of pigment, such as Magenta and Cobalt Blue.
It's important to work quickly when dropping the colors onto the paper, as you want them to mix together before they start to dry.
Also, make sure that you completely remove the previous color from your paintbrush bristles before loading your paintbrush with the next color.
To create a more pronounced bloom effect, you can drop the colors from a higher height, farther away from the surface.
This technique can be used to create beautiful and atmospheric paintings with a soft and ethereal quality. I often use this technique when creating galaxy watercolor paintings.
Dropping in a different color on or beside a previous color.
Technique 3: Using Salt
The salt technique is another great way to create blooms, though this one is more so used to create visual texture in larger areas.
By sprinkling salt on wet paint, you can achieve a variety of effects depending on the amount and type of salt used.
For example, coarse salt will create larger blooms, while fine salt will create smaller blooms. You can also experiment with different types of salt, such as Epsom salt and Kosher salt, to see what effects they produce.
In addition, you can control the intensity of the blooms by adjusting the amount of salt you use. A little salt will create subtle blooms and less visual texture, while a lot of salt will create more dramatic blooms and a higher visual texture.
Whether you're looking for delicate flowers in landscapes, or to add snow into snow scenes, using salt is a great way to add interest to your watercolor paintings.
Step-by-step process:
1. Paint a wash of color on your paper (I'd recommend using a darker color).
2. Sprinkle in salt, while the paint is still wet.
3. Allow paint to dry completely.
4. Dust off salt to reveal the beautiful visual texture.
Dropping in salt into wet paint. *Left image shows salt granules just dropped into wet paint. Right image shows the texture created once the paint has dried and salt hast been removed.
Technique 4: Dropping Clean Water Into Color
We can also create watercolor blooms by dripping clean water on wet paint.
The drop of water spreads and pushes the paint outwards, revealing more of the white paper underneath and creating a whitish bloom.
Step-by-step process:
1. Start by painting a shape on your paper with any color. You can drop in another color if you'd like.
2. While the paint is still wet, use a dropper, a pipette, or a paintbrush loaded with only a small amount of water, to slowly drip water onto the center of the shape.
3. Allow to dry.
You can control the size and shape of the bloom by adjusting the amount of clean water you drop in. Experiment with different colors and techniques to create unique blooms.
By splattering clean water on wet paint, a mottled texture can be achieved via tiny blooms!
Technique 4: Dropping Clean Water Into Color
We can also create watercolor blooms by dripping clean water on wet paint.
The drop of water spreads and pushes the paint outwards, revealing more of the white paper underneath and creating a whitish bloom.
Step-by-step process:
1. Start by painting a shape on your paper with any color. You can drop in another color if you'd like.
2. While the paint is still wet, use a dropper, a pipette, or a paintbrush loaded with only a small amount of water, to slowly drip water onto the center of the shape.
3. Allow to dry.
You can control the size and shape of the bloom by adjusting the amount of clean water you drop in. Experiment with different colors and techniques to create unique blooms.
By splattering clean water on wet paint, a mottled texture can be achieved via tiny blooms!
Dropping in water into wet paint. *Image on the left shows water that has been dropped into wet paint. Image on the right shows visual texture created when paint has been splattered onto wet paint.
Watercolor Blue Whale by Erika Lancaster. Mottled texture was created by splattering clean water on the blue-gray color while it was still wet.
Technique 5: Splattering Color Into Water
Flicking wet paint on wet paper, whether it's been pre-wetted with clean water or a colored wash has been applied, is an easy and fun way to create a speckled texture.
You can use any color paint you like, but I find that using two or three colors works best.
The consistency of your color mixture has to contain a good amount of paint in it, and some amount of water. Make sure your mixture doesn't have so much water that you start dripping water all over your painting and too much water runs down your paintbrush as you're doing your flicking.
Hold the brush close to the paper and then quickly flick your wrist so that the bristles hit the paper with a light tap.
Another way you can do this by loading up your paintbrush with paint, and use your Index finger to flick your paintbrush bristles. This second option works great when you're using synthetic brushes that have spring-y bristles that "snap" back.
You can experiment with varying the amount of paint on the brush, the type and size of paintbrush used, and the distance from the paper, to get different effects.
Once you've made a few dots, take a clean brush and blend them together lightly.
Add more dots if you want a fuller effect. Allow the paint to dry completely before framing or displaying your work.
Flicking/splattering paint on wet paper. *Image on left shows two different colors splattered on paper. Image on right shows red paint splattered on orange paint that was still wet. The wetter the paper is, the more "blurred" and soft the edges of those shapes will be.
Must-Know Tips For Better Watercolor Blooms
1. Choose the right type of paper
Different types of paper absorb water differently, and this can impact your painting. Choose a good-quality watercolor paper that is thick enough to hold the water without buckling or warping.
I recommend using a cold-pressed paper that is at least 140 lb/300 gsm. This type of paper is thick enough to hold the water without warping, and it will also give your painting a nice textured finish.
If you're looking for a smooth finish, you can use hot press watercolor paper. This type of paper has a smooth surface that is ideal for painting detailed blooms.
Just keep in mind that hot press paper is a bit more delicate and can warp more easily.
Must-Know Tips For Better Watercolor Blooms
1. Choose the right type of paper
Different types of paper absorb water differently, and this can impact your painting. Choose a good-quality watercolor paper that is thick enough to hold the water without buckling or warping.
I recommend using a cold-pressed paper that is at least 140 lb/300 gsm. This type of paper is thick enough to hold the water without warping, and it will also give your painting a nice textured finish.
If you're looking for a smooth finish, you can use hot press watercolor paper. This type of paper has a smooth surface that is ideal for painting detailed blooms.
Just keep in mind that hot press paper is a bit more delicate and can warp more easily.
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2. Use a light touch
When painting watercolor blooms, it's important to use a light touch. This will help prevent the paint from spreading too much and ruining your painting.
If you want more control over the way your watercolor paint flows, use a smaller brush and add the paint slowly, building up the color gradually. I use a size 3 or 4 round brush for most of my watercolor blooms.
And remember, you can always add more paint if you need to, but it's much harder to remove paint once it's on the paper. So start with a light touch and then build up the color gradually until you get the effect you're looking for.
3. Add water sparingly
Too much water can cause the paint to run and make your blooms look muddy. Add water sparingly, and only when necessary, to avoid this problem.
I like to use a small spray bottle to mist my paper before I start painting. This gives the paint something to cling to so that it doesn't run too much when I add water.
If you do accidentally add too much water, simply blot the excess moisture with a paper towel. Be careful not to rub the paint too hard, or you'll end up with a blurry bloom.
4. Use different colors for variation
One of the best things about watercolor blooms is that you can use any color you want. To add interest and variation, try using two or three colors instead of just one.
I like to use a light color for the base of the bloom and then add a darker color around the edge. This creates a nice contrast that makes the blooms pop.
You can also experiment with different color combinations to see what you like best. Just remember to stay within a similar color family so that you don't accidentally create a color you don't want when they start intermixing.
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5. Experiment and have fun
The best way to learn how to paint watercolor blooms is to allow yourself to explore, simply for the fun of it. Try different techniques, colors, and papers until you find a look that you love.
And don't be afraid to make mistakes. Watercolor is a forgiving medium, and even the most experienced painters make mistakes. Just relax and enjoy the process.
With a little practice, you'll be able to create beautiful watercolor blooms!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bloom in watercolor?
A bloom is a type of watercolor painting technique where paint is spread outwards from a central point, creating a flower or cauliflower-like effect.
How to avoid watercolor blooms?
There are a few things you can do to avoid watercolor blooms: use the right type of paper, use a light touch, and develop great water control.
It's all about making sure that the amount of water in your paint mixtures, in your paintbrush bristles, and on your paper is what you need for what you're trying to do. If there's too much water in any of these, or not enough, it'll be hard to arrive at the effects you're after.
This is why we have to constantly check on these three things during the painting process.
What causes watercolor blooms?
Watercolor blooms are caused by adding water to wet paint. The water disturbs the paint, pushing it outwards and creating a bloom effect.
How do you control watercolor blooms?
You can control the size and shape of watercolor blooms by adjusting the amount of water you add.
Experiment with different techniques to get the results you want.
What causes back-runs watercolor painting?
Back-runs are created when we drop in way too much water (or watery paint) on paint that is still wet.
If our paper is still wet, and we're going to be dropping in paint or clean water to create blooms, we have to be in control of the amount that we're dropping in. If too much drips down, it can flow into areas we don't want and we can create splotches.
It's all about water control!
The more you practice, the more easily you'll be able to tell when there's way too much water in the three key areas mentioned before (paint mixtures-paintbrush-paper).
You'll intuitively change the paint-to-water ratios in your mixtures, load up your paintbrush more or less, and add more water to your paper (or allow it to dry), depending on what you're intending to do in that point in time in the painting process.
Practice these five key techniques to create beautiful blooms in your watercolor paintings. Remember to experiment and have fun with this medium – the possibilities are endless!
I hope this post was helpful and inspiring for all of you getting started with watercolors!
Thanks so much to Dee Maene for so generously sharing all of this useful information with us.
Thank you for reading and I wish you tons of progress and enjoyment in your art journey.
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is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites
to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
www.erikalancaster.com
is a participant in the Shareasale.com Affiliate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Shareasale.com partner companies.
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