Tips for Mixing Darks and Shadow Colors

Do you have a hard time getting your darks and shadows dark enough? Do you struggle with shadows on yellow and red objects? These tips might help!

Planning Your Own Watercolors | Technical How-to

Dealing with “Problem Paintings”—Part 1: Too Boring for Words

If you’ve painted in watercolor for more than a day or so, I know you’ve been here: after hours of hard work, you’re struggling with a blotchy, overworked section that you know isn’t going to be right, no matter how much more effort you put into it. It’s tempting to conclude that you just don’t have what it takes . . . maybe it’s time to take up something easier to master, say, golf.

How do you deal with “problem paintings” like this? (click the picture to read more)

Supplies and Materials | Technical How-to

What’s a Cradled Board?

This must be one of the questions I get asked the most often! I used to mat and frame my watercolors. From time to time someone would ask if I could frame them without glass. I knew of some watercolorists who were painting on canvas or boards that were specially prepared to be absorbent enough…

Tips & Hacks

Less Messy Spattering with Watercolor Paint or Masking Fluid

A way to spatter without getting paint (or masking fluid) all over you and your studio.

Finding Your Style | Planning Your Own Watercolors | Tips & Hacks

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.

Color and Color Mixing | Technical How-to

It’s Not All About Hue – Imposters and Chameleons

Color-mixing is often discussed as if the only consideration is getting “the right color”, but watercolor pigments each have their own physical and chemical properties. This video presents some activities to help you develop a more sophisticated understanding of color-mixing so you become better at choosing and mixing pigments to create the artistic effects—including perceived color—you desire.