25 Quick and Easy Watercolours Using Brushes and Tubes of Paint

Watercolours are a versatile and forgiving medium that can be used to create a wide range of effects, from delicate washes to bold, expressive brushstrokes. They're also relatively inexpensive and easy to get started with, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced artists alike.

If you're new to watercolours, don't be intimidated! With a little practice, you'll be able to create beautiful paintings in no time. Here are 25 quick and easy watercolour tutorials to get you started:

Take Three Colours: 25 quick and easy watercolours using 3 brushes and 3 tubes of paint

by Grahame Booth

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	317704 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	267 pages

FREE

1. Simple Wash

A simple wash is a great way to create a background or to add colour to a subject. To create a wash, simply dip your brush in water and then in paint. Brush the paint onto your paper in even strokes, starting from the top and moving down.

2. Graduated Wash

A graduated wash is a wash that gradually changes from one colour to another. To create a graduated wash, start by dipping your brush in the lightest colour. Paint a stroke onto your paper, then dip your brush in the next lightest colour and paint another stroke, overlapping the first stroke. Continue in this manner until you reach the darkest colour.

3. Dry Brush

Dry brushing is a technique that can be used to create a variety of effects, from subtle textures to bold accents. To dry brush, dip your brush in paint and then wipe most of the paint off on a paper towel. Brush the paint onto your paper in light, feathery strokes.

4. Wet-on-Wet

Wet-on-wet is a technique that can be used to create soft, blended effects. To paint wet-on-wet, dip your brush in water and then in paint. Brush the paint onto your paper while it's still wet, allowing the colours to blend together.

5. Wet-on-Dry

Wet-on-dry is a technique that can be used to create sharp, defined edges. To paint wet-on-dry, dip your brush in water and then in paint. Brush the paint onto your paper while it's dry, allowing the paint to sit on top of the paper.

6. Glazing

Glazing is a technique that can be used to create rich, luminous colours. To glaze, apply a thin layer of paint to your paper and let it dry. Once the first layer is dry, apply a second layer of paint, overlapping the first layer. Continue in this manner until you're satisfied with the colour.

7. Lifting

Lifting is a technique that can be used to remove paint from your paper. To lift, dip a clean brush in water and then gently brush it over the area you want to remove paint from. The water will reactivate the paint, allowing you to lift it off the paper.

8. Masking

Masking is a technique that can be used to protect areas of your paper from paint. To mask, apply masking fluid to the areas you want to protect. Once the masking fluid is dry, you can paint over it. When you're finished painting, peel off the masking fluid to reveal the protected areas.

9. Sponging

Sponging is a technique that can be used to create interesting textures and patterns. To sponge, dip a sponge in paint and then dab it onto your paper. You can use different sizes and shapes of sponges to create a variety of effects.

10. Salt

Salt can be used to create interesting effects in watercolours. To use salt, sprinkle it onto your wet painting. The salt will absorb the water and create white spots in your painting.

11. Alcohol

Alcohol can be used to create interesting effects in watercolours. To use alcohol, dip a brush in alcohol and then brush it over your wet painting. The alcohol will cause the colours to bleed and blend together.

12. Bleach

Bleach can be used to create interesting effects in watercolours. To use bleach, dip a brush in bleach and then brush it over your wet painting. The bleach will remove the colour from your painting.

13. Landscape

Landscapes are a popular subject for watercolours. To paint a landscape, start by sketching out the basic shapes of the scene. Then, add colour to the scene, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours.

14. Seascape

Seascapes are another popular subject for watercolours. To paint a seascape, start by sketching out the basic shapes of the ocean and the sky. Then, add colour to the scene, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours.

15. Cityscape

Cityscapes are a great way to capture the hustle and bustle of urban life. To paint a cityscape, start by sketching out the basic shapes of the buildings and the streets. Then, add colour to the scene, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours.

16. Still Life

Still lifes are a great way to practice your watercolour skills. To paint a still life, arrange a few objects on a table or other surface. Then, sketch out the basic shapes of the objects. Finally, add colour to the scene, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours.

17. Portrait

Portraits are a challenging but rewarding subject for watercolours. To paint a portrait, start by sketching out the basic shape of the head and face. Then, add colour to the face, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours. Finally, add details to the eyes, nose, and mouth.

18. Animal

Animals are a great subject for watercolours. To paint an animal, start by sketching out the basic shape of the animal. Then, add colour to the animal, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours. Finally, add details to the eyes, nose, and mouth.

19. Flower

Flowers are a beautiful subject for watercolours. To paint a flower, start by sketching out the basic shape of the flower. Then, add colour to the flower, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours. Finally, add details to the petals, stem, and leaves.

20. Tree

Trees are a great subject for watercolours. To paint a tree, start by sketching out the basic shape of the tree. Then, add colour to the tree, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours. Finally, add details to the leaves, branches, and trunk.

21. Sky

Skies are a great way to add drama and atmosphere to your paintings. To paint a sky, start by sketching out the basic shape of the sky. Then, add colour to the sky, starting with the lightest colours and working your way up to the darkest colours. Finally, add details to the clouds and other features of the sky.

Take Three Colours: 25 quick and easy watercolours using 3 brushes and 3 tubes of paint

by Grahame Booth

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	317704 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	267 pages

FREE