Valentines' day is right around the corner, so I spent an afternoon painting a few cards. Choosing the color pallet was the fun part and we will dive into all the materials so you can make one.
What I like most, this card has a lot of white space, for balance though I may have to cut down the top.
This was all freestyle which is how I paint 98% of the time. This is a direct style using good brushes, clean water and of course adding color on good paper.
Then you take a deep breath, relax and let the magic happen.
Watercolor is something you just can't control and once you figure that out it becomes an enjoyable way to pass time.
Watercolor Materials
A good watercolor project begins with paper and there is a lot to choose from. At some point I will write a lengthy post about this, but for now, we'll keep this short.
- I used "Artists Loft" watercolor 140Lb. 9 x 12, from Michaels.
- A 6 x 9 bulk pack can be purchased on Amazon at a great price.
Brushes are always an important part of the process, and I have three favorite brands. This is another post I will be writing in the future. I used a Princeton Round #12 and a Grabie #2.
- I love the Princeton #12; it's my main go to brush and can be purchased on Amazon.
- Grabie brushes are sold in a pack, I love them for very loose painting. Purchase here.
Now comes the fun part, the colors, to begin all my watercolor paints are Windsor Newton. I love to mix and find they match how I was taught many years ago.
- This starter set is a good place to being from Windsor Newton.
To bring this painting together I mixed my own green and allowed the Mauve and Alizarin Crimson opportunity to blend once lightly applied.
- Ultramarine Blue with Cadmium Yellow to make green for leaves.
- Burnt umber with a tad of Ultramarine Blue for vines.
- Sap Green for leaf highlight.
- Mauve and Alizarine Crimson for flowers and heart shape.
My awesome ceramic color pallet was perfect for mixing. My complete review can be read here as I couldn't help but share it, I LOVE this!
So that was how I spent one of my cold afternoons, painting watercolor valentine cards.
Let me encourage you to do the same and discover your own style of watercolor creativity.
Make some handmade cards because when you share a little love and kindness it has a tendency to spread.
Encouraging Goodness,
Carole West
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