Blending watercolor pencils effectively involves layering colors and using water to create smooth transitions. The key is to avoid a "muddy" look by using the correct techniques.
Techniques for Blending Watercolor Pencils
Here's a breakdown of how to blend watercolor pencils effectively, incorporating information from the provided YouTube reference:
Layering Colors
- Apply the first color: Begin by lightly applying your first color to the paper.
- Add the second color: Next, apply your second color, overlapping slightly with the first color. Avoid excessive pressure while layering the colors to maintain control and prevent over saturation.
Activating with Water
- Use a Wet Brush: Once you've layered your colors, use a brush dipped in clean water.
- Blend Gently: Carefully blend the colors using the damp brush. This activates the watercolor pigments, allowing them to flow together and create a seamless transition between the layered colours.
- Avoid overworking: If the colour becomes muddy, it could be that you're overworking the colours. Be sure to use light strokes to gently blend the colours.
Correcting Common Mistakes
- Avoid Overlapping Wet Colors: One common mistake that results in muddy colors, is blending layers while they are still wet. Always allow layers to dry before introducing more layers or water.
- Clean Water: Ensure your water is clean when blending colours, dirty water can introduce unwanted colours that may result in "muddy" blends.
- Clean Brush: Always clean your brush as you go along, this will ensure there are no unwanted colours when blending.
Quick Tips
Here are some tips to keep in mind when blending watercolor pencils:
- Use a Light Touch: When applying the pencils, do it lightly. Heavy pressure can make blending more difficult.
- Use Quality Paper: Use thick paper designed for watercolor, as regular paper can buckle when wet.
- Experiment: Practice with different color combinations and techniques to find what works best for you.
By using these techniques, you can effectively blend watercolor pencils and create beautiful, vibrant artwork.
