To use watercolor pans effectively, the key is to activate the dried paint with water. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Activating the Paint
The Essential Step: Adding Water
The primary step in using watercolor pans involves rehydrating the paint. Since they are dried, you cannot use them as they are. The reference states that the best way to use watercolor pans is to add plenty of water to activate the dried paint.
Quick Activation Method
- Use Your Brush: Dip your brush into clean water and then swirl it gently on the surface of the paint pan.
- Activate the Pigment: This allows the water to dissolve and activate the pigment, making it usable for painting. The reference notes this is the fastest method to prepare your paints.
Getting Started with Watercolor Pans:
Here's a simple table that breaks down the steps:
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wet Your Brush | Ready the brush to collect water |
| 2 | Swirl Water on Paint Pan | Activate the paint pigments with the water |
| 3 | Pick Up Paint | Begin using paint on your brush, building intensity by how much water you activate |
| 4 | Begin Painting | Start bringing your creation to life |
Tips for Working with Watercolor Pans
- Use a Palette: Transfer activated paint to a palette to mix colors and adjust consistency, keeping your pans clean.
- Control Water: Use varying amounts of water for different effects, from washes to intense strokes. Too much water will create watery and pale color, and too little will be dry.
- Clean Your Brush: Clean brushes between colors to maintain color vibrancy.
Considerations
- Water Quality: Use clean water to avoid muddy or dull colors.
- Brush Type: Experiment with different brushes for varied line thickness and paint application.
- Paper Quality: Use watercolor paper to prevent buckling and to handle the water.
By understanding how to activate the paint in watercolor pans, you can use them effectively. Remember to add plenty of water when starting out and control the amount of water used to manage the color consistency.
