Watercolor Wet in Wet Technique for Beginners

The Wet in Wet watercolor technique allows artists to explore the freeness in watercolor painting and the unpredictability of using water as an artistic medium. The technique involves wetting the paper using a brush or paper towel and then applying color into the wet areas of the paper. This creates a smooth texture depending on how much water is applied. You can achieve beautiful “washes” by applying water and moving color across the paper. A flat wash is achieved with a flat brush and water. Artists use this technique often with landscapes.

This technique fascinated me for years because of how it captures the ephemeral nature of painting. Mastering this technique will level up your artistic skills; You will be able to leverage this skill when painting landscapes, leaves, and skies.

Wet in Wet

1. Grab water with a wide brush.

2. Apply water to the paper.

3. Pick up color in your brush.

4. Place the color on the wet areas of the paper.

5. Dry your brush and then move the pigment across the paper.

This is the first tutorial of three where I demonstrate foundational techniques used in watercolor painting, including wet on dry, and masking fluid.

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