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Writer's pictureNihal Özdemir Köse

Perfect Watercolor Techniques for Beginners

Watercolor is a type of water-based transparent paint and is usually applied on paper. Watercolor is a technique in which water-based paints dry much faster and brushes can be cleaned easily, and Watercolor painting is an art form in itself where these paints and techniques are used. Watercolor techniques, like any art, require a lot of practice.


What are Watercolor Techniques?


1. Wet on Dry or Wet on Wet Technique


Among the watercolor techniques, the first techniques that come to mind are the techniques of using paper dry or wet. The movement and distribution of the paint are different in both. Before starting to paint in the wet-on-wet technique, the paper is wetted with water. Paint moves more easily on wet paper and transitions are smoother. In the dry-on-wet technique, painting starts without wetting the paper, using as much water as the water in the brush. With this technique, you can achieve more distinctive colors and sharper results.



2. Layering


In watercolor, one starts with light tones and gradually progresses to dark tones. Water is often used instead of white to lighten the color. But don't be in a hurry to get the colors you want, it will come with practice over time. I recommend you to try on a paper that you don't use before you start painting



3. Watercolor Splash Technique

It is the splashing of paint on the paper by holding the brush between the thumb and middle finger, pulling back the bristles of the brush with the index finger. This technique is often used with white paint to give the effect of snowfall. It can also be used for many different effects. It should not be forgotten that paint will splash around during this technique.



4. Watercolor Drip Technique


With this watercolor technique it is possible to achieve magical random patterns. In this watercolor technique, the paint is dripped onto the paper. After a large drop, a smaller drop of another color is applied into it, then a smaller drop. This technique is enjoyable but requires attention. When mixing colors, it should not be muddy.



5. Using the Texture of Paper


A thick watercolor paper offers the opportunity to use textures effectively. More realistic results can be achieved, especially when painting objects with textures.







6. Creating Tissue with Salt


Creating texture and transitions is important in watercolor. Ordinary table salt can produce a surprising result. Salt crystals absorb water and leave a unique texture in the color pigment. I have observed that rock salt crystals have much stronger effects than sea salt. Salt paint comes off when wet. It is expected to dry completely. Once dry, the salt can be swept away or retained in the paper by squeezing the stabilizer.



7. Painting with a Sponge


Dish sponge or natural sponges are preferred for this watercolor technique. For more incredible textures, natural sponges are recommended. Beautiful results can be achieved for plants, shrubs, wetlands or clouds.




8. Masking Tape


Paper tapes (also known as masking tape) that do not stick to watercolor paper or any painting paper can be glued to the desired areas and painted. It is generally preferred to obtain a framed appearance, to obtain clean edges and to fix by sticking so that the paper does not swell when it meets water.


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