Watercolors: Essential Tips & Supplies for Beginners
If you’re curious about watercolors but don’t know where to start, you’re in the right place. Watercolors feel magic because a few drops can turn a blank page into a vibrant scene. The good news? You don’t need an expensive kit to get going. Below you’ll find the basics you need, plus a few tricks that even seasoned artists use.
What to Buy First
Start with three things: paints, paper, and brushes. For paints, a student‑grade set of 12 colors covers most needs; you can mix to get any hue. Choose cold‑pressed paper with a weight of 140‑300 gsm – it holds water well and won’t buckle. As for brushes, a medium flat brush and a small round brush are enough to experiment with washes and details.
Don’t waste money on fancy palettes or synthetic brushes that shed fibers. A simple plastic palette for mixing and a zip‑top bag to keep your paints moist work perfectly. If you’re on a tight budget, a pack of watercolor pencils can double as paint when you dissolve the lead in water.
Quick Techniques to Get You Started
One of the easiest tricks is the wet‑on‑wet method. Wet the paper with clean water, then drop in pigment. The color will bloom and spread, creating soft backgrounds in seconds. For sharper edges, try wet‑on‑dry: apply paint to dry paper for defined shapes. Practice both to see which mood fits your project.
Another handy tip is lifting. While the paint is still wet, use a clean, damp brush or a tissue to pull up color. This creates highlights or corrects mistakes without starting over. It’s perfect for adding light to clouds or water surfaces.Finish each piece by letting it dry flat. If you want a glossy look, press a clean sheet of wax paper on top while it dries. This gives a subtle sheen without any extra products.
Now that you know the basics, explore the posts on our site. We have a guide called “Watercolor Painting for Beginners: What to Buy First” that dives deeper into choosing paints and paper. Check out “How to Blur Oil Painting Edges” for a similar technique that works in watercolor too. Each article is written to help you move from planning to painting quickly.
Remember, the best way to improve is to paint every day, even if it’s just a quick swatch. Try a new color mix, experiment with a different brush, or recreate a simple landscape. Over time you’ll notice what works for you and develop your own style. Keep your supplies organized, stay curious, and enjoy the process.
