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@h-jones

I’m gonna pop in, because I’ve done watercolor for quite a while know and I’ve noticed some things that just make life a whole lot easier when it comes to messing with paints. XD

1. Use good paper. Hobby Lobby is…. not the best paper. I’d recommend getting a mixed media Strathmore sketchbook, or a watercolor specific sketchbook. It may not sound like it’s worth it, but believe me, it makes painting sooooo much easier. I prefer cold pressed, just because it looks better to me artistically and it also seems to hold up better. Hot press…. I don’t like hot press very much. It’s not very absorbent, so washes don’t turn out very well. It does look nice and bright though.

2. Brush work. Honestly, I’ve never bought watercolor-specific brushes before, and I’ve never really seen the need to. They probably help some, but I think brush technique is what makes up the most part. Watercolor is… tricky. Once you get the hang of it though, it’s surprisingly easy to control, despite common belief. I’d recommend just messing around with it some. Paint sunsets, paint characters, paint still life–just experiment some. Watercolor only goes where you put the water. The biggest thing I can say to keep it from bleeding and spreading is to simply be patient, and let it dry. There’s no hack or tip to change this–you just have to be patient and let things dry, otherwise it’s going to bleed like nuts. By drawing a variety of things, you’ll figure out how to use the brushes to your best advantage.

Also, don’t be afraid to get that paper wet–it’s made to withstand a puddle. If you get a little too much water on your paper, use your brush to soak it up or a paper towel even if it’s just a wash.

3. Paints. I only have one thing to say about this–don’t use Crazy Artz. Or Crayola. Get a decent case of watercolor, and you’ll see an insane difference in the quality of your art and how well you can apply techniques. I have both liquid and tray watercolors, and honestly I don’t see much of a difference in them. The liquids are a little easier to mix, but that’s all I’ve noticed so far. Personally, I prefer a decent set of tray watercolors simply because I can take them places easier and they often come with a built in palette on the lid or such.

Take note that when I say get a good brand of paper or a good case of watercolors, I don’t mean you need to go all out and buy insanely expensive art supplies. You can get pretty good paper, watercolors, and brushes all for less than $30 at Walmart. (In fact, that’s where I buy most of my art supplies unless I’m looking for something specific, like alcohol based markers or something. Then I’m off to Michael’s. XD)

As for tape…. I don’t really like using tape so I don’t have a ton of experience with it. I’d say just don’t press it down as hard? Or maybe try a different kind of tape, like masking tape that’s made to come off easily?

If you have any questions, please ask! I’m always happy to chat art stuff. 😉