Watercolor paint, also known as water paint, uses water to activate its pigments. This simple yet versatile technique allows for a wide range of effects and styles.
The Watercolor Process: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
-
Activation: Watercolor paints are composed of pigment suspended in a water-soluble binder. Adding water re-suspends the pigment, creating a liquid paint that can be applied to a surface. [Source: "Watercolour paints are activated by water so you can spread them on the paper. Then the water evaporates and leaves behind the pigment, which is your painting."]
-
Application: The diluted paint is applied to the chosen surface, typically watercolor paper, using brushes of varying sizes and shapes. The amount of water used controls the paint's consistency and intensity, creating light washes or bold strokes. [Source: "The more water you add, the lighter and more transparent the color will be."]
-
Drying: As the water evaporates, the pigment is deposited onto the surface, creating the painting. The paper's texture and absorbency significantly influence the final appearance of the painting. [Source: "Watercolor paper essentially lets the paint sit on top of the paper until it dries rather than allowing the paint to spiderweb out."] The absorbency of the paper is one reason that even inexpensive watercolors can produce excellent results in the hands of an experienced artist. [Source: "A set of cheap watercolor paints used by an artist with knowledge of value, composition, and who has a solid watercolor painting still has potential."]
-
Layering: Multiple layers of paint can be added, allowing for the creation of depth and complexity. The layering technique involves applying one color and waiting for it to dry before applying another. The amount of water used in each layer also affects how much each layer interacts with those underneath, allowing for blending and translucent effects. [Source: "I think water color does a lot of the work for you."]
Different Applications: Beyond Traditional Paper
Watercolor's versatility extends beyond traditional painting. It's used in:
- Kids' coloring books: These books utilize special techniques, activating hidden colors with water. [Source: Reddit thread on watercoloring kid's books]
- Gelli printing: Watercolor paints can be used with gelli plates to create unique prints. [Source: Gelli Printing with Watercolor Paint]
- Wood painting: While not as effective as on watercolor paper, watercolors can be used on wood. [Source: Adding Watercolor to Wood]
Choosing Your Materials: Paper and Paint
The type of paper and the quality of the paint significantly impact the final artwork. High-quality watercolor paper is designed to handle the repeated application of water without buckling or tearing. Similarly, better pigments will be more vibrant and lightfast.
