WATERCOLOR TECHNIQUES
Hard Edge Painting - To obtain a deeper, denser tone of color, pre-wet the desired paint with a brushful of water and stir gently. Let sit for 30 seconds. For more translucence, mix paint with water in a plastic mixing tray or plastic plate.
Color Saturation - Dampen paper with a wet sponge or briefly hold paper under water. Lay flat. Spread one color over the entire paper. Tilt the paper to help the color spread evenly.
Color Wash - Decorate a previously painted area by overpainting the dry surface with fine dots or lines. Try creating dots by dipping the tip of a brush handle into paint and then onto the painted surface. This technique is usually more successful if the overpainting is a deeper color than the underpainting.
Overlay - Overlay colors to build up dark colors or to mix hues. Once the bottom layer is dry, brush paint over it. Repeat until desired color effect is reached.
Wet vs Dry - Wet the paper before you begin, so colors will blend quickly and easily, spread evenly, and have a lighter shade. Begin with dry paper for colors that will be darker and won't blend as quickly or easily.
Salt Sprinkles - Sprinkle salt on wet paintings and let dry. Once dry, brush off the remaining salt. You'll have an interesting design because the color concentrates into the areas where the salt crystals form.
Plastic Wrap - While paint is still wet, press crumpled plastic wrap onto the artwork. This technique will leave an interesting texture. Or try laying plastic wrap flat on the wet painted surface. Pull with one strong stroke in one direction. As the wrap moves, it will pull the paint along.
