Watercolor Wash

Create soft backgrounds with this watercolor technique.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   Add a drop of re-inker to the palette.
   
   Add another drop in a second compartment if a gradated wash is desired.

   

2. Step 2

   Add water to the re-inker. Add more water to one than the other, and mix.

   

3. Step 3

   Spray watercolor paper with a water misting bottle to dampen the paper. This will help the colors spread and blend.

   

4. Step 4

   Wet a watercolor brush. Dip in the darker re-inker solution.

   

5. Step 5

   Apply ink wash from one side of the watercolor to the other with a single stroke.
   
   Hint:
   I am left handed and brush from right to left. Right handed people will probably do the opposite.

   

6. Step 6

   Dip watercolor brush in re-inker solution and add a second stroke underneath the first. Make sure the brush strokes overlap.

   

7. Continue adding color.

   

8. Step 7

   Repeat until the entire watercolor paper is covered. Let dry.
   
   Variation:
   For a gradated wash, use the darker mixture for the first half of the paper, then continue with the lighter color. Last go over the upper part with just a wet brush to get the lightest color for the bottom of the paper.

   

9. Step 8

   Stamp your main image.
   
   Here, Real Red, Pink Passion and Always Artichoke Watercolor Crayons were used with the Wet Watercolor Crayon technique.

   

10. Step 9

    Over-stamp with an outline stamp and add sentiment.

    

11. Step 10

    Add shading with the re-inker mixes and a smaller watercolor brush.

    

12. Step 11

    Finished card.

    

Video!

Variations

1. Add Resist!
   Try adding Embossing Resist or Crayon Resist to your card.
   
   Spray it
   There are several Color Wash sprays out to make this technique easier.
   
   Multiple Colors
   Add more than one color to your background.

   

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Watercolor Wash. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!

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