Are You Still Making These 3 Watercolor Control Mistakes?

Learning water control in watercolor painting is a common hurdle for beginners. Here are 3 common mistakes that plague both the beginner and even the more seasoned watercolor painter in getting control of them watercolor medium.

0:00 Intro
0:48 You are Painting With Water
1:43 Mistake #1 Not Changing the Amount of Water
10:25 Mistake #2 Poor Brush Water Management
14:49 Mistake #3 No Bold Generous Paint Mixing
20:27 Conclusion

Mind of Watercolor, 10-color Watercolor Set (M. Graham)

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[christinajackson]

I just recently got on my own case because I’ve been so afraid of “wasting” my precious supplies, that they’ve literally sat and gathered dust! But I had a sudden “NO MORE!” moment, as the only true way to waste art supplies is to never use them. Hell, even making mistakes is still making! So glory to all our messes, may our tubes run empty and our paper drip in a rainbow of colors!

[BluJean]

“If you’re being precious with your paint and are afraid to waste it, you’re not painting.”
Thank you! 🎨 👍

[catherinelevison]

Excellent. One other tip is when you have your brush loaded with paint but you’re aware there might be too much water in it, you can dab the part by the ferrule with a paper towel and that will remove excess water but keep the pigment in the tip and lower half of the brush. Then you don’t waste the paint or your time by redoing it all when in doubt.

[omybeach]

Finally a teacher who can teach. You really cover all your topics with such honesty and knowledge. Brings back the joy again.

[todd.mitchell]

Outstanding instruction. I can't get over how wonderful it is to watch a master like this -- I live in the sticks, yet I get to stand at his elbow! Thank you, Mr. Mitchell. You got me started in 2017.

[marykendrick]

Thank you for being patient enough to explain in detail without being repetitive

[randommcranderson]

2:00 Not making brush and paper moisture level changes when needed
10:51 Using your brush as a water manager, not just a paint applicator
15:12 Being too precious with palette mixtures

[gigi]

I’m learning to watercolor so I’m watching LOTS of videos. I don’t know why but something connected in my brain when you were talking about water as a medium like acrylic or oils. “Painting with water….” Lightbulb moment! Eureka! I found myself using too much pigment and wasn’t achieving the sheer beauty of this medium. Keep in mind, I am so so so new at this. I am learning so much from you. Granted, a lot of your videos are way over my head in execution. But man, they are beautiful! (I think I may be a touch older than you😜 but when I heard your music today, I thought Herb Albert!)

[kellyhalligan]

Good video. I use a doggy diaper pad next to palette as a towel, and also paper towels

[alisonhendry]

I have not even finished watching and can’t wait to say how much I LOVE your water control vids. A long time ago, In the beginning of my learning journey in a galaxy far far away I found YOU! And the light bulbs came on! No one explained more clearly and simply and made me laugh at the same time. Water and pigment control on GOOD paper are essential to less frustration and more success. You are just the best and so clear! I send everyone to your beginner series when they ask for more YouTube help. Thanks for all the years of your sharing. 🙏🥰

[wkmwnji]

Wow! Essential information, not “just basics!” There’s something valuable in this video for every watercolor enthusiast, beginner to professional. Thanks for improving the lives of art geeks everywhere! :)

[dukeful]

I am a newbie and I follow several artists, but I totally enjoy (and chuckle) at your delivery! I so appreciate the in detail guidance you provide. So many artists just don’t go in to detail on HOW things are done. And, I love how you go over even the “duh” things because you are directly speaking to me! LOL Love it!

[dneel]

My biggest problem is letting the paint layers dry enough, I’m always to impatient and start the next level to soon. Have to listen to myself and walk away. Thanks Steve good video.

[dsimms]

As a new painter, this kind of instruction is invaluable. Knowing things like this will save time, aggravation and money

[plekang]

Thanks for the "news you can use" Steve! I dunno how you seem to get the RIGHT mixture of subject matter (spontaneous, abstract, realist, landscape, still life) - but you get the PERFECT balance! I absolutely need that "back to the basics" information over and over again ... so keep it up! Thanks again!

[madelcarreon]

This is really helpful! Water control is definitely a problem for me and it's not typically discussed in beginner tutorials. Thank you Steve

[pamsunstrom]

Not wasting paint was me as a newbie! I love your videos!

[meggraham]

Using the black paper was sheer genius! Again I have learnt a lot from this video.

[simpsonken]

Thanks a great video . For me having scrap of same paper to test on is a big help.

[natlisan]

As for being "precious" with your paint, being afraid to waste it. I almost always find use for a colour I mix, even if it's using it for an under painting or adding more pigment to make a "black". So... don't be afraid of wasting paint just enjoy the process and playing with the paint that's half the fun! 😉