watercolorvideo1 by christine corvin
Creating watercolor and ink pen art can be a joyful experience! I've compiled some expert tips and added a few of my own!--- to help you get started.
What materials do you need?
Honestly, if you are truly a beginner, you can begin with the basics.
Watercolor paints- I prefer the 48 color pan tray, available for under 10 dollars, which usually also includes a few starter brushes.
Brushes- if you order or buy a paint set that does not include brushes, you can again purchase a brush set for under 10 dollars. they do not need to be specific to watercolor. If you are planning to splatter some paint like I often do, an old toothbrush will do.
Paper- I sell quite a bit of artwork on Etsy that is created on handmade paper. I also use heavier watercolor paper and sometimes use canvas. For the beginner, a student pad is perfect.
Pen- a few black "sharpie' style pens with fine points
A cup of water and some rags or paper towels, maybe a pencil with an eraser.
Optional: workable fixatif. this is a product available at most large online shopping retailers. It comes in a spray can and costs under 10 dollars also. It "fixes' pencil marks and watercolor paint to paper so that you can layer it.
Optional: a board and clips or painters tape. clipping or painting your watercolor paper to a board allows you to apply a lot of water and not have your paper "buckle". I simply don't do it. I carry my pieces from one area to another depending on my mood and the lighting. If the paper buckles, I put something heavy on top to flatten it.
How to begin?
One approach is to begin by sketching your design lightly with a pencil on the watercolor paper. Do not be intimidated by this thought! Draw a circle, a flower shape or a square if that is what is comfortable. Another approach, which I use often when I am feeling intuitive, is to begin layering colors on the paper and let shapes emerge. Use light, transparent layers of paint to build up the colors gradually. Allow each layer to dry before adding the next to prevent colors from blending together.
Adding details with ink pens
Once your watercolor base is dry, you can add details with the pens. My approach to this step is very "mixed media". If I want to preserve what I have done so far, I will spray a light layer of workable fixative before adding the ink pen designs. The pens that I use will work on top of the watercolor paint.
Practice and experimentation
Like any art form, watercolor and ink pen art takes practice and experimentation. Don't be afraid to make mistakes or try new techniques. By continuously challenging yourself and pushing your creative boundaries, you'll improve your skills and develop your unique artistic voice.
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