Delving into the world of watercolors may seem a little daunting at first. Like all new hobbies you might be unsure where to start or whether it’s worth all the effort. But exploring with watercolors can open up many artistic opportunities and adventures for you. Learning to watercolor is a fantastic skill to have and a great way to spend your free time. So here are 5 top reasons why you should start watercoloring!
1. The most convenient painting medium
You don’t require a lot of excess tools to start watercoloring. In fact your watercolor essentials can be boiled down to three: watercolor paint, paper and paintbrush. Giving you the flexibility of impromptu painting sessions whenever the mood strikes without the need for a full set up. Their lightweight portability also allows for on the go painting. Whether you’re in the park, riding the train or out on the beach they're easy to whip out. Side note: Swapping your paintbrush for a water brush pen takes this convenience to another level. You can do away with the need for a jar of water and keep things neat and compact.
2. One color is all you need to create a masterpiece
Image credit: @artbysinch and @pena_art
The really great thing about watercolors is that you can control the opacity. Changing the ratio of paint to water will totally change the look of a color. Increasing the water will create a washed out and subtle hue where as limiting the water will create a much more bold and dramatic color. Look at how both @artbysinch and @pena_art have created their stunning art pieces using a one-color palette. The array of beautiful hues have been achieved by controlling the amount of water added with each brushstroke.
3. An abundance of fun techniques to explore
Watercolor is a very versatile medium. You can create a multitude of different effects and textures depending on how you mix, layer and apply the paint; from wet-on-wet (wetting the paper before applying the paint) to wet-on-dry (painting onto a dry surface) to creating an ombre water wash using a piece of plastic to even adding salt. Each technique yields different results and the more you experiment the more fun you’ll have. If you’re interested in finding out more about these techniques see here for a comprehensive video guide.
4. You aren’t limited to just using paints
Did you know you can create wonderful watercolor work using brush pens? For example, the tip of our Single Brush Pen is just like a real brush giving you all the flexibility of a paintbrush. While its water-based ink blends effortlessly with water. With a brush pen you can mix colors and create gradients just as you would with paints but with the mess-free ease of a pen. You can see why brush pens are fast becoming a must have tool for all artists, crafters and letterers.
5. Lettering made easy
Image credit: @arobinsonart
Lettering with watercolors couldn’t be easier. We recommend using watercolors as an interesting alternative to the traditional ink calligraphy pens. It’s a more forgiving medium and allows for more creativity. There are a plethora of lettering styles out there from big and bold, delicate and swirly to ombre or multicolor. With so much choice watercolor lettering is perfect art form for decorating your journal, creating wedding invites and upping your card making game.