How to use watercolor pencils

How to prepare watercolor paper:

Watercolor paper is one of the most commonly used supports with watercolor pencils. Here's how to prepare it:

• Mist the paper with a wet brush or by spraying water onto the surface.
• Allow the paper to dry completely before starting to draw with the pencils.

How to prepare canvas or cardboard:

If you want to use canvas or cardboard as a support for watercolor pencils, you need to apply a layer of acrylic gesso on the support before starting to draw. This way, you will create a smooth and waterproof surface that will allow the colors to adhere better to the surface.

In general, it is important to make sure that the support is completely dry before starting to draw with watercolor pencils. This way, you will avoid colors mixing and creating unwanted effects.

Basic techniques

Watercolor pencils are a versatile and fun tool to use, but they require some basic techniques to achieve the best results. Here are some tips on how to use them at their best:

1. Use the right paper

The paper you choose is important when using watercolor pencils. Watercolor paper is the best choice because it is thick and absorbs water well without deforming or breaking. However, you can also use thicker drawing paper or sketch paper with a smooth surface.

2. Start with a light drawing

Before starting to color with watercolor pencils, create a light drawing with a soft pencil. This way, you can correct any mistakes without damaging the paper.

3. Use water

Watercolor pencils can be used both dry and wet. If you want to create a watercolor effect, use a wet brush to blend the color and achieve a more uniform finish.

4. Experiment with different blending techniques

There are many blending techniques that you can use with watercolor pencils, including wet wash, dry blending, and wet blending. Experiment with these techniques to find out which one works best for you.

5. Use colors strategically

Watercolor pencils are available in a wide range of colors, but you don't need to use them all. Instead, choose some key colors that fit your drawing and use them strategically to create a more harmonious effect.

• Use complementary colors to create contrast
• Mix colors to create different shades
• Use neutral colors like gray or brown to create depth and definition

By following these basic techniques, you can achieve amazing results with your watercolor pencils. Remember to experiment and have fun while expressing yourself through art!

Advanced effects

By using watercolor pencils, you can create advanced effects that can make a work of art even more interesting and appealing. Below are some of the advanced effects you can achieve with watercolor pencils:

Shading

Shading is one of the best ways to use watercolor pencils. To create shading, choose two or more similar colors and apply them to the paper, slightly overlapping them. Then, use a wet brush to blend them together, creating a soft and gradual transition effect between the colors.

Washed-out effect

The washed-out effect is ideal for creating the feeling of light and shadow. Apply color to the paper as you would normally paint, but then use a wet brush to "wash" the color evenly over the entire painted area. This creates a transparency effect that can be used to give depth to your artwork.

Visible brushstrokes

If you want to create a more expressive work of art, try leaving the visible brushstrokes. Paint with watercolor pencils as you normally would, but instead of blending the color with a wet brush, leave visible brushstrokes. This creates a texture effect that can give more depth and interest to your artwork.

Rubbed effect

The rubbed effect is a way to create a sense of movement in your artwork. Apply color to the paper as you normally would, but then use a wet brush to gently rub the color in a circular motion. This creates a "smudging" effect that can be used to create the impression of wind or movement.

• Experiment with these advanced effects to see what works best for you and your art.
• Remember that watercolor pencils are highly versatile and can be used in many different ways to create unique and interesting works of art.

Conclusion

Watercolor pencils are a fantastic tool for artists of all levels. They are easy to use and offer many creative possibilities. With the right technique and practice, you can achieve amazing results with watercolor pencils. Always remember to experiment and have fun with your art!