The Joy of Slowing Down
Watercolour isn’t just painting — it’s a form of mindfulness. As you dip your brush into water, watch colours swirl and fade, and see forms emerge from puddles of pigment, you're reconnecting with a quieter part of yourself.
So grab your brushes, find a patch of light, and let the water guide you.
Watercolour painting has a unique charm — it's luminous, unpredictable, and wonderfully expressive. Whether you're a complete beginner or rekindling a love for art, watercolours invite you to slow down, observe the world around you, and express it with softness and light.
Why Watercolours?
Unlike oils or acrylics, watercolours are portable, relatively inexpensive, and require minimal setup. They're perfect for sketchbooks, travel journals, or quiet afternoons at home. What makes them special is their transparency — layers of light build upon one another to create stunning depth and glow.
What You Need to Get Started
You don’t need a studio or a massive investment. Just a few quality tools will do:
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Watercolour paints (start with a basic set of 6–12 colours)
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Brushes (round size 6 and 10 are good starters)
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100% cotton watercolour paper (300gsm or 140lb)
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Mixing palette, two water jars, and paper towels
Optional: Masking fluid or tape, white gel pen for highlights, or a board to tape your paper down.
5 Essential Techniques to Try
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Wet-on-wet – Apply water to the paper, then drop in colour. Watch it bloom!
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Wet-on-dry – Paint on dry paper for crisp, clean lines.
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Lifting – Blot with tissue or brush to pull paint and reveal highlights.
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Dry brush – Use minimal water to create texture like bark or fur.
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Glazing – Layer colours after drying to build depth.
Easy Projects to Build Confidence
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A sunset sky with blending clouds
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A single flower or leaf with loose edges
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A cup of tea or a favourite mug
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Mini landscapes with trees, fields, and mist
These mini-studies help you learn how water behaves — and that’s the secret to mastering watercolour: it’s about flow, not control.
Watercolour Wisdom
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Don’t overwork an area. Let the paint breathe.
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Embrace "happy accidents" — blooms, drips, and textures can add life.
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Start light. Watercolour is all about building layers.
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Practice swatching your colours — it helps to know how they behave.
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Most importantly: keep going. Every brushstroke teaches you something new.
📚 Resources I Love
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YouTube: Try Emma Lefebvre, Jenna Rainey, or Shayda Campbell for beginner-friendly tutorials.
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Books: “Everyday Watercolor” by Jenna Rainey is a great intro.
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Instagram & Pinterest: Search #watercolourpractice or #watercolourbeginner for endless inspiration.