~ PDF of this post ~ NLP Part 2 – Progress thus far   Since the beginning of this project, I have been exploring various YouTube videos to learn about watercolour painting.  Throughout the process, I discovered that not all introductory videos are created equal, nor do they adequately explain techniques.  The criteria I used to explore the sites were: clarity of instructions, presentation of materials, and visually appealing.  The videos identified below all met that criteria but, the second one explored the basics more clearly and their demonstrations were slower and thus better for a beginner.      Tips to begin ( video representation)   Exploration first began with Easy Watercolor Painting Ideas for Beginners Step by Step and then quickly added the information from   Watercolor Lessons for Beginners A compilation of six tips was created.   Using the right paper is essential, such as heavy papers. The su...

 I thought I would try to reproduce a photo in water colours.  I felt very confident and then I picked up the brush and got nervous. I began with a wet-on-wet technique in order to create the background.  As the page was divided in two, drying time was built in.  Each ayer must be done on a dry surface, otherwise the colours will blend,.   I layered the paints, mixing techniques and trying to use various shades of colour to add dimension to the painting.  

 Further fun and exploration - this time following this YouTube video. Watercolor Lessons for Beginners - YouTube 6 Tips for starting water colours     1. Pick the right paper - heavy papers are best and it was suggested to use 200 gram papers.  The heavier the better.  Also, the paper should have bumps as they gather water.  Here are some examples from Michael's.       2.  Choose your water colours.  They come in all sizes and prices.  In general, the better the colours the higher the price.  Again, here is a collection from Michaels.  We can see the varied prices and choice.       3. Brushes (shapes and sizes).  The tips come as either synthetic or natural bristles.  The share would be dependent on what you are planning to do.  I Suggest using a medium bristle brush to start.  Here is my collection of brushes:       There are such things called water brushe...

The learning continues as does the exploration.   `Following the following the following video, I explored the various elements discussed. How & Where to Wart with Watercolor Painting for Beginners The guidelines prior to beginning are to: Ensure purchasing good quality paints. As for paintbrushes, you don't need lots.  It is suggested you choose a few but with skill can use one large brush and achieve small think lines - it's a matter of control. Paper - need water colour paper....thicker and better quality as it's the foundation of the piece. Setting up the workspace is important.  You would need two jars of water - one clean to add to paints and one to clean brushes.  You would also need  mixing dishes.and tape to frame and hold down the paper when working.   Technique 1 - Wet-on-Wet  Wet on wet is, as the name implies. You wet your paper and with very watered down watercolours, begin to layer.  Wet-on-Dry is when you apply ...