Watercolor Painting
This is one of the few activities I started before beginning this website. I wanted to start something creative and thought that watercolor would be the cheapest option since the paints last so long. Enjoy!
The Essentials
Watercolor paints (technically only 3 needed to make every color)
Watercolor paper
Brushes
Cup or jar for water (I use an old Rao’s Arrabiata sauce jar. Doesn’t have to be fancy, just make sure you clean it!)
Palette (Can be a plate if you don’t have anything else)
My suggestions
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Paints
Windsor & Newton tube paints
*I’ve linked an entire set, but you can start with just a few. If you’re only buying 3, get a yellow, blue, and red. Kristin Van Leuven (details below) suggests Lemon Yellow, Cerulean, and Quin. Magenta
Paper
Arches watercolor block, 100% cotton, cold press 140 lb
*The block is nice because the edges are held down. If you get loose paper I suggest also buying tape! Watercolor paper will warp as you paint so it needs help to stay flat.
Brushes
Utrecht Synthetic watercolor brush, size 8
*Capable of broad and thin strokes, holds pigment well.
If you’re going to paint large areas, you’ll need a large brush. I suggest size 8 only as you begin and figure out if you like it.
Palette
When I first started I bought this ceramic palette, but I actually like large palettes like this plastic one more because it can hold more colors. If you have space for the larger one, I recommend it.
*I got to talking with a woman in the art store once and she handed me the palette, saying, “You won’t use the colors if they’re not already out.” She was right! I incorporate many more colors now because they’re all right there, ready to use.
My teachers
Rich Vroom
In Person
The late Rich Vroom is first and foremost my best friend’s dad. He's also one of the only adults I've met who lived a life he seemed to truly enjoy. He biked to his painting studio, making a daily pitstop at a local coffee shop where the baristas knew him by name. His talent for painting was second only to his talent for turning strangers to friends and teaching everyone around him how to enjoy life a little bit more.
He taught me the basics free of charge, staying late after his other painting students had gone home. His love for his craft was evident in his teaching style and in his paintings. His Instagram is linked here if you'd like some inspiration!
Paul Clark
Youtube
I found Paul Clark’s channel when I wanted to learn how to paint skies. He’s got a sense of humor and helps you create beautiful scenes even if your skill level is pretty basic.
The painting in the photo at the top of this page is from one of his tutorials. You may notice on this painting that it looks quite textured. That’s because I was using a very heavy paper: 300 lb vs the 140 lb I recommend. If you’re going for a more textured look, 300 lb will be lovely, but I mostly use the 140 lb.
Kristin Van Leuven
Youtube and Instagram
This account popped up on my Instagram feed (it’s not all bad!) and I immediately saw its value. The technique videos are some of the best I’ve ever come across! She has amazing videos showing common mistakes beginners make and how to correct them, as well as teaching the basics.