Have you ever felt like herding cats when you tried watercolor painting? It’s not just you our website. It’s not just you. It’s worth it when you learn how to do it.

The first thing we’ll talk about is wet-onwet. This one is like literally dancing in the rain. Wet the paper first, and then paint it. Paint spreads out as if at a gathering of family members. You can use it to create dreamy backgrounds or soft background. It’s important to keep an active eye on the situation. If you’re not vigilant, things can go quickly from beautiful to dull.

Next is dry brushing. Imagine trying painting with a toothbrush which has seen better days. You might think it’s strange. The texture it adds is amazing. Dip your brush and wipe the excess paint off before you apply it to the paper. This will give you cool, scratchy edges that look great on fur or rough surfaces.

You’ve probably heard of the word glazing. This isn’t about donuts–although I’d like to eat one now. Glazing involves adding transparent washes onto each other when they have dried. To create depth, you can stack colored cellophane sheet to achieve the look.

Next, there is lifting out the color. Made a mistake? No worries! Use a dampened brush or sponge to remove that nasty boy. You can undo your mistakes in real life.

Let me tell you a story about my first use of masking fluid. Before I realized that I had painted more on myself, than on my artwork, I was convinced I was Picasso. Masking liquid is great for preserving the whites while you splash with other colors. You must let the masking fluid dry completely before removing it. Otherwise you will end up with a sticky mess, similar to chewing gum.

Next let’s discuss gradients–smooth, seamless transitions that look like butter melting into toast. Starting with one color, gradually add more water as you move along the paper. Or, blend two shades together for a magical ombre.

Ever tried salt sprinkling? The class isn’t about cooking, but it doesn’t hurt to grab the saltshaker. Sprinkle salt onto wet painting and watch the crystals create interesting patterns.

Remember to include blooms too, but only the good ones! Drop some water on the still-wet paint spot and watch as they spread out like ripples when you add pebbles to a pond.

But don’t undervalue simple splattering tricks either! Use a wet brush and flick it towards the canvas.

Last but not least, I assure you it will become secondnature over time. Try to treat each session like an exploration of a young child where serendipity is king.

Grab the brushes! You’ve got it. Take the plunge into watercolors, without hesitation. Even experienced artists started chaotically… Just ask Van Gogh.