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Image by Sarah Brown

Fundamentals of Watercolor Painting

Explore Fluid Color, Light Layers, and Expressive Techniques

Watercolor painting is a beautiful, expressive medium that’s known for its luminous washes and delicate details. In this course, artists of all levels will learn the foundational skills to confidently work with watercolor. From selecting materials and mastering brush techniques to creating simple paintings and troubleshooting common challenges, this class helps you build confidence and creativity with every brushstroke.

Children Painting Together

MODULE 1: INTRODUCTION TO WATERCOLOR

  • What makes watercolor painting unique, versatile, and popular?

  • A brief history and evolution of watercolor as an art form

  • Types of watercolor paint: student-grade vs. professional

  • The pros and cons of working with watercolor

Image by Gustavo Leighton

MODULE 2: BASIC MATERIALS

  • Paper: Learn how paper weight, size, and texture affect your painting

  • Brushes: Explore different shapes, sizes, and synthetic vs. natural fibers

  • Paints: Understand watercolor palettes, pans vs. tubes, and color mixing

  • Extras: Use palettes, masking fluid, sponges, and water containers to support your process

Image by Sincerely Media

MODULE 3: BASIC TECHNIQUES

  • Learn core methods like wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry

  • Master color mixing for vibrant and subtle effects

  • Explore techniques for shading, highlighting, and lifting color

  • Try masking to preserve white space and create contrast

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MODULE 4: BUILDING A SIMPLE WATERCOLOR PAINTING

  • Outline your composition before painting

  • Work from light to dark in gentle layers

  • Focus on basic shapes and strong form

  • Add detail and texture to bring your painting to life

Image by Elena Mozhvilo

MODULE 5: COMMON CHALLENGES & MISTAKES

  • Learn how to manage paper buckling and over-wetting

  • Troubleshoot color mixing and blending issues

  • Improve brush control and correct common beginner mistakes

  • Discover quick fixes when things go off track

Image by Art Institute of Chicago

MODULE 6: PRACTICE & IMPROVEMENT

  • Build confidence through simple shape and color exercises

  • Choose beginner-friendly subjects like still life or landscapes

  • Learn how to use reference images and find inspiration

  • Start building a personal portfolio of watercolor artwork

Children Doing Art

MODULE 7: KEEP GROWING AS A WATERCOLOR ARTIST

  • Continue experimenting and exploring your own style

  • Find helpful books, online tutorials, and other learning resources

  • Complete a final project that brings together everything you've learned

Discover the Magic of Watercolor

Whether you're just getting started or looking to refresh your skills, this course will help you connect with the fluid beauty of watercolor painting. With expert guidance, hands-on practice, and a supportive environment, you’ll leave with greater confidence—and your own collection of luminous artwork.

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