Learn Watercolour Quickly: Techniques and painting secrets for the absolute beginner (Learn Quickly)

by Hazel Soan

There are some pigments that are called ‘lifting colours’ because they do not stain the paper. They can be lifted off with a clean, damp brush or sponge even when completely dry. Useful examples are Ultramarine, Burnt Sienna and Burnt Umber.

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Things to look for • Lines that lead the eye into the painting or towards the focus • Shapes that vary and make interesting brushmarks • Light that enlivens and breaks up areas of darkness • Shade that suggests form, offers a touch of ambiguity and provides areas of peace • Perspective to imply depth, distance and narrative • Proportion to enhance scale and a sense of space • Colour that entertains the eye

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Watercolour welcomes simplicity.

‘rule of thirds’

Don’t try to ‘tidy up’ your watercolour: ambiguity is one of the lovely characteristics of blending.

Most of all, do not fiddle. Overworking watercolours kills off freshness. If I am unsure whether something is finished or not, my motto is: ‘If in doubt, chicken out’!