Easy DIY “Low-Stress” Watercolor Sketchbooks, Part 1
Some fast and easy watercolor sketchbooks you can make yourself from the paper you usually paint on. (Part 1 of 2)
Blog
Avoiding Overwhelm When Sketching on Location (or Working from a Photo)
To avoid overwhelm while sketching (or working from a complicated photo), collect “characters” now, arrange them to tell a story later.
Tips for Mixing Darks and Shadow Colors
A few tips for mixing darks and shadow colors in watercolor, including shadows on yellow and red objects.
Metamorphosis, a Better Way to Adjust Paintings in Progress (Art Invitation for Mar 2023)
Don’t ask “What do I need to fix?” about a painting. Here’s what to ask instead, and some tips for helping an unsatisfying painting undergo a creative metamorphosis.
More Tips for a Consistent Sketching Practice—Don’t Try to Do It All! (at once)
Ideas for how to keep your sketching going without discouragement. Enjoy sketching on location right now, with the skills you have right now, and still build the skills you need to create that beautiful “sketchbook as a work of art” you aspire to.
Creativity Booster— Try Improv Painting!
Here’s an exercise to help you stimulate your creativity, loosen up or find your own style.
Establishing a Consistent Sketchbook (or Painting) Practice
Tips for establishing a consistent sketchbook (or painting) practice.
Color and Color Mixing | Creative Energy Journaling | Finding Your Style | Planning Your Own Watercolors
Easily Create Symmetrical Circular Designs (January 2023 Art Invitation)
Make your own symmetrical circular designs for mandalas or other circular paintings. All you need are a plate and a piece of office paper! This video shows you how to do it.
Glow! (An Alternate Method for Softening Edges)
In this video, I demonstrate an alternate method for softening edges in watercolor, using a sponge instead of a brush.
Take It to the Limit (Find Your Style Exercise)
An exercise for exploring (and collecting) things you enjoy doing (not just seeing), as a way to expand and explore your personal style.
The Most Important Watercolor How-To
Having trouble finding the time and energy to paint? Try designing some Anti-Rules!
Art Supplies That Are a Joy to Use (Gift Ideas)
Here are three things in my studio that make me smile every time I use them. (Great gift ideas for artists!)