Watercolor Painting Step by Step

One of the most frequent requests I receive is to show the process of my work from start to finish. There are many different methods to use in watercolor painting. I work a little differently than many other artists, but there is a common technique I use regularly. I build the painting in layers, allowing each layer to dry before attempting the next. I do not work in a wet-on-wet style.

I begin with a pencil drawing that is sometimes detailed and at other times barely there at all. I like to get most of the surface covers with at least one layer of color as soon as possible. It is rare that the first layer put down is close to the final color.

Once I have built up enough layers to achieve the values Im looking for, I begin to add the details. If I add them too soon there is a great likelihood that they will be diminished or even disappear as other layers are applied.

Notice how loose the painting is in the beginning. With watercolor, there are many ways to refine your work as you go along, including lifting the paint from the paper if you need to make corrections. The tightness in my work comes near the end.

You will find there is a lot of information in these photos if you take some time to study them. I wish you success in your watercolor adventures.