Watercolor Journal Day 21 (Simple Flowers)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we'll explore simple flower painting techniques using watercolor, inspired by Shana Circe's Watercolor Journal Day 21 video. This guide is perfect for beginners eager to express their creativity and build confidence in their artistic skills. Whether you're starting a new journal or simply looking for inspiration, these straightforward steps will help you create beautiful floral designs.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

To start, gather the following supplies:

• Watercolor Paints: Qor Paints by Golden are recommended.
• Watercolor Journal: Baohong Academy 100% Cotton Sketchbook.
• Brushes:
  • Princeton Aquaelite
  • Princeton Select
  • Silver Black Velvet
• Additional Paper: Arches 100% Cotton, Tumuarta Watercolor Journal, Baohong Watercolor Block, Bee Watercolor Sketchbook.
• Pens: For outlining or detailing, if desired.

Tip: Ensure your workspace is organized and well-lit to enhance your painting experience.

Step 2: Overcome the Fear of Starting

Many artists feel intimidated by a blank journal page. Remember, your journal is a safe space for experimentation. It is not meant for perfection but for growth and exploration. Embrace the process and allow yourself to make mistakes; they are part of learning.

Step 3: Prepare Your Workspace

• Open your journal carefully to avoid damaging the spine.
• Clamp the pages if necessary to keep them flat while you paint.

Step 4: Begin with Simple Flowers

We'll start painting three types of simple flowers: rose buds, thistle, and lavender.

Painting Rose Buds

1. Mix Colors: Use Qor magenta, watered down.
2. Create Bud Shape: With a size 3 brush, press down to form the shape of the rose bud.
3. Add Stems: While the paint is still wet, use sap green to paint the stems, allowing colors to blend naturally.

Painting Thistle

1. Mix Colors: Combine ultramarine and quinacridone magenta for a bluish-purple hue.
2. Form the Flower: Use scalloping brush strokes to create an upside-down heart shape, leaving white space.
3. Add Depth: Drop in darker blue where needed, and use sap green for the stem.

Painting Lavender

1. Prepare Colors: Use a darker purple for the flower.
2. Create Vertical Blooms: Start at the top, using tiny petals and spreading them down.
3. Add Stems: Touch the stem color to the base of the flower while everything is wet for a natural look.

Step 5: Experiment with Additional Flowers

You can also try painting:

Cone Flowers

1. Base Color: Start with a bright yellow for the center.
2. Petal Shape: Create long, leaf-like petals that connect to the center.
3. Add Detail: Once dry, use a fine liner brush to add darker lines to simulate texture.

Peachy Flowers

1. Mix a Soft Color: Create a peachy pink by mixing yellow with a bit of quinacridone.
2. Wet on Wet Technique: Paint water first, then drop the color into the wet area for a soft effect.
3. Add Greenery: Introduce green at the base of the flower to create a cohesive look.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing your simple flower paintings! Remember, the key to improving your watercolor skills is regular practice and experimentation. Don’t hesitate to revisit these techniques and explore your unique styles. Enjoy your watercolor journey, and share your creations with others to inspire them as well! Happy painting!