Look for watercolor tubes that are labelled as “student-” or “academic-” grade. These paints don’t have quite the same quality as artist-grade watercolors, but they can save you a lot of money. [2] X Research source Watercolor paints come in both staining and non-staining formulas. Non-staining paint sits on the surface of your paper and can easily be removed for different “lift off” techniques, while staining paints set into the paper, creating a permanent color base.
The biggest advantage of using a paint tray is that there’s a small well for each individual shade. This can be useful if you want to keep your colors separated until you put them on paper. [4] X Research source Plastic watercolor palettes have a smooth, glossy finish that’s perfect for mixing. They’ll also keep your paints wet longer, so you won’t have to worry about them drying out.
The paint in watercolor tubes is highly concentrated, since it’s meant to be mixed with water. For most projects, a dime-sized blob will be more than enough. When you’ve got as much paint as you need, be sure to put the cap back on the tube to avoid potential messes.
It’s very important to keep your colors separated as best as you can. Once one shade has become mingled with another, it can be nearly impossible to recapture its original color. [7] X Research source
You can use just about any type of container as a water cup. However, those with large openings, such as drinking glasses, coffee mugs, and mason jars will work best. Be sure to use a container you can wash or throw away when you’re done so you won’t risk contaminating your dining ware.
A #8 round red sable watercolor brush makes a good all-around brush for painting with watercolors. [10] X Research source You may also want to keep a #4 brush and 1 in (2. 5 cm) flat brush around for fine detailing and filling large areas, respectively.
Make sure you’re starting with a clean brush. [11] X Expert Source Kelly MedfordProfessional Artist Expert Interview. 2 July 2019. If there’s any leftover pigment from past projects in the bristles, it will contaminate your new colors.
If you accidentally grab too much paint, wipe some of it off on the edge of the well or on a separate piece of scrap paper.
Remember, you can always add more pigment as needed, but you can’t take it away once it’s there.
Choose a type of paper with a weight of at least #140. Heavier papers not only absorb pigment better, but also prevent warping and wrinkling as you continue to layer on moisture. [14] X Expert Source Kelly MedfordProfessional Artist Expert Interview. 2 July 2019. [15] X Research source To paint broad areas, press more of the bristle into the paper, or switch to a brush of a different size (if you have more than one).
Mixing primary colors like red and blue or blue and yellow, for example, can give you secondary ones like purple and green. [17] X Research source Always start a new water pool when mixing colors so you don’t contaminate your other paints.
If you don’t keep your watercolor tubes clean, the excess paint around the cap can dry out and turn crusty, effectively gluing it on. Needless to say, this can be frustrating!
Consider investing in a small carrying case to keep your watercolors organized. One of these will help you keep track of your art supplies while also making it easier to transport them from place to place. Another option is to designate one entire section your work area for your watercolors so you’ll always know where they are. [20] X Research source
If you don’t have a suitable container for your watercolor tubes, at least tuck them away in a drawer or closet so they’re not left sitting out. The better protected your watercolor tubes are, the longer they’ll last and the more use you’ll get out of them.
