Introduction To Watercolor Painting Techniques
By Ralph Serpe
Introduction To Watercolor Painting Techniques
This article will provide you with a general understanding of some of the more
basic watercolor painting techniques.
Flat Wash Technique - The flat wash technique is one of the more basic
and common of the various techniques. The flat wash technique is usually used
when large areas of the canvas need to be covered. You will want to lay out
the watercolor wash evenly and uniformly. First you will need to dampen the
area of your canvas where you will be applying the watercolor wash. Make certain
to have an adequate amount of water and pigment available before your start.
If you should have to stop for any reason, it will be difficult to match your
layers.. It is better to have more than less available. The angle at which you
apply the watercolor wash is important. If the angle is too steep your wash
will run down the paper. If the angle is too level, then you won't have enough
movement. Use a large brush for this technique and start your first stroke at
the top of the paper. Continue applying the watercolor wash going down the paper,
but alternate sides as you move down.
Glazing Technique - The glazing technique is when you apply a thin transparent
color over a completed dry layer of color. This technique creates some very
interesting blends of new color. You will need to use a non-staining, transparent
color for this watercolor technique. You should use a soft brush and don't apply
that much pressure.
Wet In Wet Technique - Wet in wet is simply applying a wet wash over
a wet surface. You start by evenly wetting the paper with a brush or spray bottle.
Have a sponge handy to absorb any excess water. You want your paper to be evenly
saturated. Then apply your watercolor.
Dry Brush Technique - With the dry brush technique, your paper is completely
dry. You then apply a fairly dry pigment with very little water to the paper.
The dry brush technique should only be used where you want to draw focus or
create texture in your painting. It's always a good idea to use various watercolor
brush techniques in a single painting. This results in a more interesting painting.
Lifting Off Technique - Artists use this technique when they want to
remove watercolor from a certain area of the panting. It is usually done by
first wetting the area that needs to be removed with a clean sponge and then
absorbing the color with a tissue. If you find that the color does not come
off right away, then let the water soak in a bit longer and try again. If you
still are unable to remove the color, then dampen a bristle brush and gently
scrub the area. You should use extreme care with this watercolor technique,
as there is a risk you can damage the paper.
I hope this article on watercolor techniques has helped. Happy Painting! About the Author Ralph Serpe is webmaster and founder of CreativeSpotlite.com. Visit Creative
Spotlite today for more watercolor
techniques, including free step by step demonstrations by experienced watercolor
artists.
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