Watercolor painting is a timeless art form that captivates with its delicate washes and vibrant hues. Understanding the essential supplies is crucial for creating compelling watercolor artworks. In this guide, we’ll explore three fundamental tools every watercolor artist should have: quality paints, suitable brushes, and appropriate paper.
Pss. On each tool you’ll find an Amazon link that will redirect you to my favorite product.
1. Quality Watercolor Paints
The foundation of any watercolor painting lies in the quality of the paints. High-quality paints offer better pigmentation, transparency, and longevity. Brands like Grumbacher and Winsor & Newton are renowned for their professional-grade watercolors. When I started to use watercolor paints my dad gave me a Koi Watercolor Sketch Box, which was super useful and has my heart for its great quality and low cost. If you can’t afford a professional watercolor paint such as the Grumbacher or the Winsor & Newton, the Koi are the perfect option thanks to its pocket size kits.
2. Suitable Paintbrushes
Selecting the right brushes is vital for achieving desired effects in watercolor painting. Common brush shapes include:
- Round: Pointed tip, ideal for detail work.
- Flat: For spreading paint evenly over a surface.
- Filbert: Flat brushes with domed ends, allowing for good coverage and some detail work.
- Fan: Used for blending broad areas of paint.
Natural hair brushes, such as those made from sable, are prized for their ability to hold water and maintain a fine point. Synthetic brushes have also improved significantly, offering durability and versatility.
My favorite paint brushes are the Artify 3 Brush Set, Golden Maple 6 Brush Set, and the best for reduced budget the Flydom Art 4 Brush Set.
3. Appropriate Watercolor Paper
The paper you choose can significantly impact your painting’s outcome. Watercolor paper is typically made from cotton or wood pulp and comes in different weights and textures:
- Hot-Pressed (HP): Smooth surface, suitable for detailed work.
- Cold-Pressed (NOT): Slight texture, versatile for various techniques.
- Rough: Pronounced texture, ideal for expressive strokes.
Heavier paper (140 lb or more) is recommended to prevent warping when applying washes.
The ones I used when I was learning was the Winsor & Newton sketchbook and the Canson XL Bloc.
Embarking on your watercolor journey requires the right supplies: quality paints, suitable brushes, and appropriate paper. Investing in these essential supplies for watercolor painting enhances your creative process and the final artwork. In GlobalTirely, you’ll be able to find multiple videos where we use tons of tools and brands, so you can find the perfect one for you. We invite you to share your experiences and insights in the comments below, fostering a community of learning and inspiration.