How to Learn to Paint With Watercolors

Purchase watercolor paints and follow a tutorial.

Watercolor is a form of art where paint is mixed with water to create subtle, abstract and sometimes realistic effects. Watercolor may be used alone or with other media such as acrylic or colored pencils. If you have an interest in art, or watercolor, you have a variety of learning methods available to you. Whether you learn better with an instructor or in the comfort of your home, you will be able to find an option that works well for you. The best way to start is to purchase a beginner's watercolor kit and start painting.

Things You'll Need

• Watercolor paints
• Paintbrushes
• Water
• Cup
• Palette
• Instructional books
• Paper

Instructions

1. Sign up for a watercolor class in your community. Watercolor painting courses are available at community colleges, art galleries, schools and art supply stores. Check your local listings for class availability and schedules. Your church or other community centers nearby may also have a listing of various art classes including watercolor. Fees for watercolor classes may be per-class or for a group of classes plus the cost of materials.

2. Teach yourself watercolor painting with instructional books or DVD's. There are a variety of instructional books which show you the various techniques with step-by-step instructions. These books will also provide you with pertinent information on choosing the right paintbrushes, watercolor paper and the best paints to buy. You may find it easier to learn by watching an artist show you the painting techniques with a DVD. Books and DVDs to learn watercolor painting are available at art supply stores, craft stores and online retailers.

3. Learn watercolor painting by following an online tutorial. There are literally hundreds of options on the internet for learning the techniques required for successful watercolor painting. You will find many free lessons as well as more advanced lessons which ask for a small fee. You can purchase the materials first, then locate a tutorial meant for beginners. As you progress through the courses, you will begin more intermediate and advanced online classes.

4. Get private watercolor painting lessons and benefit from one-on-one teaching. This may be someone you know who is an artist and willing to teach you the fundamentals, or somebody experienced with teaching various art techniques in watercolor. Check your local newspaper and other publications for a listing of individuals who might be giving these types of lessons.

References

• Yong Chen: Fun and Joy Learning Center
• Watercolor Painting Tips: For All Levels of Watercolor Painters

Resources

• Amazon.com; First Steps Painting Watercolors; Cathy Johnson; August 1995