Guides

Gouache‌ ‌vs‌ ‌Watercolor‌: What’s the Difference? (A Detailed Comparison)

by

Gouache‌ ‌vs‌ ‌Watercolor‌

Gouache and watercolor are two of the most popular water-soluble pigments and binders. And for beginners, it can be a little tricky to tell the two apart.

Gouache‌ ‌vs‌ ‌Watercolor‌: in a Nutshell

Despite their similarities, gouache and watercolor have very distinct differences that any aspiring painter (or hobbyist) should know about.

Differences

Gouache Watercolor
Opaque and has a matte finish Transparent and fluid
Contains more pigmentation Tends to seep into other colors
Dries quicker Easier to blend
Can be used on many types of paper Harder to fix mistakes/errors
Easier to cover up mistakes/errors Requires a specific type of paper
Is tougher to learn how to use and control Takes longer to dry
Tougher to blend It’s inexpensive and easy to find
Can be a little more expensive than watercolor Requires the use of softer brushes that hold a lot of water
Can be used with more brittle or hard brushes You use more water to create lighter colors
You use white paint to lighten colors Watercolor pigment particles are smaller

Similarities

  • They are both waterbased paints, made of similar materials and pigments
  • They require similar preparation and clean up
  • They both can be bought in tubes
  • Both need plenty of practice and diligence to master

Let’s take a closer look at the differences and similarities between gouache and watercolor, and find out how each medium can be applied.

Read more

Famous and Modern Watercolor Artists You Should Know

by

Watercolor — one of the oldest media in the history of art — is also one of the oldest painting methods in the entire world. Due to its simplicity and fool-proof painting techniques, it’s not surprising how it’s become one of the most popular painting methods today. It’s also one of the most versatile and flexible mediums.

Because of its popularity, watercolor has gained a lot of supporters — artists — who use the medium for their pieces.

Below, we’re showcasing the works of several watercolorists who are dedicated to this technique. Many stick to the traditional forms of art while others dare and experiment with different genres.

Read more

How to Use Watercolor Pencils: A Series of Step by Step Guides

by

How to Use Watercolor Pencils

Most people learn to write their first words and draw their first shapes using a pencil. That’s why I think it’s pretty safe to say that pencils are the most famous media there is. Although when it comes to art, pencils come in many types and purposes. Pencils have varying tones of graphite and charcoal pencils. They also have tons of colors from colored and watercolor pencils. And pencils also get precision for technical and detailed illustrations from the thin leads of a mechanical pencil.

Today, we’re going to find out how to use watercolor pencils properly. This type of pencil is easily mistaken for standard colored pencils. Unlike colored pencils, watercolor pencils are much softer, more vibrant, and it’s water-soluble. Without water, you can put down thicker layers and produce more vibrant shades with the more delicate tips, and it’s far from the experience of using colored pencils. Brush a bit of water with your illustration, and the watercolor pencils pop out and show broader capabilities and possibilities. But, it won’t be as straightforward as you might think. So here are tons of tips to help you ensure the best results on your first try. Are you ready?

Read more

How To Make Oil Paints Dry Faster: 6 Easy Tips To Improve Your Painting Habits

by

It’s evident that oil paints existed and have been used as early as the 7th century. Then it became famous in the renaissance period. And up until now, oil paints are still the most trusted by artists. Especially for artists who are painting on canvas. Why is that? Well, for instance, oil paints give more confidence to the artists since these are incredibly customizable. And it’ll give off better color, texture, and overall quality than acrylics, watercolors, and more.

How to Make Oil Paints Dry Faster

Although you might expect a good result, you’ll need to work hard and smart to get the product you want. You’ll face problems like uneven drying, cracking, and painting stress. In this article, we’ll teach you how to make oil paints dry faster and make your painting habits a bit better. And most importantly, the things we’re going to teach can be your tool to achieve that masterpiece your mind holds. Grab a drink or a snack, relax, and keep reading. Enjoy!

Read more

How to Use Watercolor on Canvas: Professional Tips for Preparing and Choosing Your Canvas

by

Watercolor is a unique medium to create beautiful artwork. For novice artists, watercolor is the easiest medium to learn. Artists find it honest, transparent, and spontaneous, as mistakes in watercolor may actually be used as an artistic effect.

There are also practical reasons why some artists prefer to use watercolor over oil. One factor is the faster drying time compared to oil. Watercolor does not smell as strong as oils, and it’s easier to carry around a watercolor palette than tubes of oil.

Read more

How to Blend Oil Pastels: Quick Guide to Improve Your Pastel Skill

by

Have you been wanting to experiment with oil pastels for your next project? Or are you already painting with oil pastels but are struggling to get the results you want? Working with oil pastels, especially when it comes to blending, can be really tricky. If you’re getting frustrated, I don’t blame you!

It doesn’t have to be this way. I’m here to help you learn how to blend oil pastels with detailed step-by-step instructions. You’ll be blending pastels like a pro in no time once you’re done reading this article. Creating whimsical oil pastel paintings will be a piece of cake, even if you’re just a beginner!

Read more