I nearly quit trying to learn watercolor because I didn't have drawing skills, and RUclips tutorials were not providing outlines for me to trace. Joining a Patreon was a game changer because I could download outlines, then focus on learning to work with the paint. I plan to focus more on my drawing soon, but would never have grown to love painting without the flexibility of low price of Patreon options. I wish more instructors would provide a free outline on RUclips from time to time, just to give new learners the confidence to move forward with paid lessons and content.
I have tried almost everything - in person classes are very hard for me to find where I live. For many reasons both from the student side and artist side I will never darken the doors of Skillshare or Domestika again. I do purchases classes from artists who have those classes on Etchr, Domestika and Udemy. From a students viewpoint Udemy is my favourite because they have an awesome learning schedule that ties to your calendar and the place where you are is kept. I do support Artists on Patreon who I really like and especially those whose classes are simply too expensive for me to afford in this lifetime. I like showing my support and no, if I get content or a class or two a month that is a bonus. I love You Tube and love supporting the artists that give so much of themselves freely on that platform. You have no idea how much I appreciate you. I love your videos, tutorials and the classes that I have purchased on your website. Classes on peoples websites or subscribing to artists websites - yes I do that too. One of my very favourites is a person who not only has his own website, but he also posts on You Tube and has some of his classes in Udemy. The trouble with the classes that most people have on their website is that you have to remember to record where you stop and what course you are on - I spend so much time restarting that I learned that lesson which was very frustrating. You are correct Michele about people getting so many courses - in my defense (because I am one of those people) - I just don't want them to go away. I want to do them all I just don't have enough time. I didn't start doing any art until I was 68 and I was like a kid in a candy shop. LOLOL I have now learned that sometimes the courses do go away anyway so that wasn't very smart - lololol!!!! I have had horrendous experiences with Skillshare and Domestika - so I totally understand teachers pain with these platforms but I absolutely can't believe what happened to you. I hope that you reported that teacher to You Tube as well. I absolutely know they would do something about that - whatever they could anyway because I know that they were totally behind my dear Cinnamon Cooney at one point. So, if it happened recently tell You Tube as well because they can block that person - not that the person couldn't some in through a different identity. Thanks for this Michele.
I once tried using a promotional link with Skillshare, from another artist here on RUclips. I had such a nightmare getting my details removed by Skillshare (I was being bombarded with unwanted emails!), I would never go anywhere near them again. Which is a shame, because there are some useful looking courses. I have quite a collection of books, but apart from the odd dip in and out of them, I think I could have saved myself a lot of money lol. I have found I learn more by watching and doing. I like to watch artists first, and then either just incorporate any techniques they have shown into my own work, or replay the video as I try and paint along. I am extremely grateful for all the free content put out by artists like you Michele. There are too many for me to support on a regular basis, but I am going to try and rotate on a month by month basis, to make occasional donations. Many thanks. 🙏💖
You were the first artist I found on youtube when I first started into watercolour. I have learned so much from you. I keep coming back to you as you offer the most skilled and best presentation on how to learn different techniques and mediums. Another positive for online courses is that you can do them whenever you like. I sleep different hours all the time and I may be up all night and sleeping in the day. When I have purchased an online course I just do it at night.
I have been to quite a few one day workshops. I feel you can really get into it in the 4- 6 or so hours. I have learnt so much from them. I can then put some of the skills learnt in my own art journey. It has helped me grow my style. It is particularly good for changing mediums by going to different artists. That one to one help in a small group is invaluable
Mine is to actually paint and draw more, not just watch videos about it. And to paint or draw for the sake of doing it, not only for a special occasion or need. This way I could remove the feel of needing every piece to be a masterpiece or even great. I.e. just painting interesting subjects for myself, not always when would need a card, a gift, etc.
I agree. There is too much pressure when trying to follow videos and classes. Just drawing and painting for the sake of doing it makes it most enjoyable for me.
I really enjoy your videos and courses because you focus on techniques and drawing. I also have many books because I'm a better reader than listener 😅 and I can learn from different artists. I think you idea of putting it on your coursework on calendar is a great idea! I have many projects going at once because I get easily sidetracked.
I learn so much from watching artists paint. Especially if they take the time to explain the process they are teaching. I also like books so I can take my time to review what I have just observed on a video. It seems to cement the new procedure in my brain! Then I will get my paint brushes wet and if needed go back and review if I need to either on a video or in the book. Michele I have enjoyed every video that I have watched of yours. You are excellent at explaining the hows and whys etc. Thank you for doing all you do for this community! Happy New Year. Wishing you the best in the New Year.
I own 6 or 7 books, watched hours of RUclips videos and have some of Michele’s online courses. All of these resources have aided in my development. I have not tried a live course a bit self conscious but I really think this is my next step. Putting paint to paper is so important so always set time aside to just paint. This video content is why Michele is simply head and shoulders above other artists. Michele exceeded 10,000,000 views on RUclips so I am not the only one of this opioion. Peace, love and good karma to all.
An interesting and informative video, Michele. Thank you. I really like your courses, there is the choice of buying the whole course or parts of them, depending on the depth of your pocket, without being tied in. I do watch other artists, but you teach. You don't just paint pretty pictures. Thank you again.
I found your channel just months ago, and for some time now I've been watching many of your videos. You are such a good teacher, the content you provide is incredible ... I can't thank you enough. I'm looking into signing up for something, soon. I always give a thumbs up.
I’m lucky enough to be able to take in person classes with a great artist very near me. They work for me because I work full time and am often tired by the end of the day, but like yourself, when I’ve paid the money, I’m going! This means that I show up and actually paint for two and a half hours each week. Since we’re required to have our paper stretched and our drawing done before class, that adds roughly another hour depending on the subject. I also watch a lot of free content on RUclips. There are some fantastic and really generous teachers like yourself who put out regular free content, although I must say, I’m a little guilty of watching rather than doing! That said, I still learn a lot from watching and I then can go back to the artist’s play list when I need to look at a technique or subject down the track (a good example is your spider web video, I’m planning a painting with a spider web so I’ll watch your video before I start my own). Great video as always Michele. I also think free content on RUclips gives an indication of what to expect if you want to have a go at a more in depth course with a particular artist. Thanks as always ❤
Wow a great explanation of each of these ways to get started to draw ✍️ or paint 🎨! I have only used RUclips videos/tutorials, many books 📚, and online courses to learn & build my art skills. I am hoping to do an in person art course/workshop soon. Hope you & Gimlet are enjoying this 2025 New Year as much as I am. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts & knowledge! Enjoy your weekend Michele 🫶🏻!
I do most of these ideas to learn. I teach at a large Senior Center where there are two classes with over twenty in each.I co-teach one of us demonstrates and the other moved around to students.I love your short technique online videos.
I have tried Patreon and I agree with what you said, it is about commitment and discipline. To educate myself in art I have tried RUclips videos, books, and one virtual class. I did not enjoy or learn much in that virtual class and felt it was a waste of money. I have never been in a real art class, but I just signed up for an art retreat in February. Let's see how that goes. Now, I would like to add a couple of comments to this video. For example, another con for RUclips is that one has to be selective and search extensively, because anybody can create videos, and not necessarily be an expert. Also, another con to platforms such as Skillshare and Coursera is that they require computer expertise one may or may not have. Thanks again for this video Michele, I like it because it is thought-provoking.
I prefer live in person classes however since I work, anything at the college level or even local ateliers are either at an inconvenient time or hideously expensive. So I like the RUclips tutorials and patreon. I do have some books because they make nice references but as you said, it's much easier to see somebody do it than to try to figure it out from a book. Classes get you exposed to other people's work and how they see things because we don't often see the same thing the same way
Yes I used to teach on a Saturday and it was very popular with workers, however I found when I taught in the evening no one wanted to come out in November and the light was poor too!
I can totally relate to that lol! I think I should have been born in warmer climes, or should have been a squirrel haha - I tend to hibetnate in the winter months, going anywhere in evenings is a big no for me.
Very interesting I now know a bit more about many options I’ve heard about. I think the planning you talk about is correct, a teacher takes you step by step along the learning curve. And, in the net we’re drawn to skip perhaps too far ahead of ourselves or try things we’re not advanced enough for. I enjoy following your tutorials & video. And, I like seeing other artists & how they work. And, I like art books very much. A happy new year. Look forward to your new videos. Thank you.
I go to art classes, but also at our senior centre a group of us meet once a week and just get on with whatever we are working on be it sketches or watercolour or acrylic. You name it. The camaraderie between us all is really special and some of us go to the pub or restaurant after. All good. If you love art and you are perfectly happy to stay at home, honing your craft, I think it's immensely important to find a club and join, or classes. Just my opinion of course and it works well for me.
I have been tempted to sign up for art platforms but it does get expensive, and you have to use it or you just waste your money. From experience, Facebook is terrible for taking no action regarding scammers - when people pretend to be someone that you know and nothing gets done about it, it's so frustrating. Anyway, Michele, thank you for your great art tips!
I purchased a couple of your online courses this last week (the tomatoes and the gouache succulents - loved both of these based on snip-its in RUclips videos) as they are on sale at the moment (held off based on your advice: 30% off between Christmas and New Year!!). I have only watched some of both at the moment as unfortunately I have a full time job (😞) and am waiting to have a block of time to properly dedicate to them. But just wanted to say that it was my choice to purchase them and if (very unlikely based on what I've seen so far and your RUclips content generally) I felt they were not for me and a poor choice there is absolutely no way I would attempt to get a refund. You provide us with enough information to make an informed choice and if we don't love what we've purchased too bad - at least we have supported an artist that we love who provides us with so much invaluable content and advice. Hurrah for cats! 😽
I consume lots of free online content and bookmark even more for watching/reading in the future (which I may or may not eventually get around to). I have books that I don't open. Have paid for online classes that I never get around to watching. Therefore, live in-person classes are best. Just too easy to passively consume, rather than actively create. ugh!
Hello! I have been shopping around guidance on starting my exploration into using watercolors. I have taken drawing courses in the past (like 25 years ago) and have never considered it a particular forte but am somewhat competent. Do I need to refresh my drawing skills before taking your beginning watercolor class?
My basic watercolor course for beginners requires almost no drawing, as it's based in simple techniques and paint control. It's always good to practice drawing but you don't need it for that course :-)
Have you tried Patreon, Skillshare or real Classes? What's your favorite way to learn art? Share your experiences below!🎨
I nearly quit trying to learn watercolor because I didn't have drawing skills, and RUclips tutorials were not providing outlines for me to trace. Joining a Patreon was a game changer because I could download outlines, then focus on learning to work with the paint. I plan to focus more on my drawing soon, but would never have grown to love painting without the flexibility of low price of Patreon options. I wish more instructors would provide a free outline on RUclips from time to time, just to give new learners the confidence to move forward with paid lessons and content.
I have tried almost everything - in person classes are very hard for me to find where I live. For many reasons both from the student side and artist side I will never darken the doors of Skillshare or Domestika again. I do purchases classes from artists who have those classes on Etchr, Domestika and Udemy. From a students viewpoint Udemy is my favourite because they have an awesome learning schedule that ties to your calendar and the place where you are is kept. I do support Artists on Patreon who I really like and especially those whose classes are simply too expensive for me to afford in this lifetime. I like showing my support and no, if I get content or a class or two a month that is a bonus. I love You Tube and love supporting the artists that give so much of themselves freely on that platform. You have no idea how much I appreciate you. I love your videos, tutorials and the classes that I have purchased on your website. Classes on peoples websites or subscribing to artists websites - yes I do that too. One of my very favourites is a person who not only has his own website, but he also posts on You Tube and has some of his classes in Udemy. The trouble with the classes that most people have on their website is that you have to remember to record where you stop and what course you are on - I spend so much time restarting that I learned that lesson which was very frustrating. You are correct Michele about people getting so many courses - in my defense (because I am one of those people) - I just don't want them to go away. I want to do them all I just don't have enough time. I didn't start doing any art until I was 68 and I was like a kid in a candy shop. LOLOL I have now learned that sometimes the courses do go away anyway so that wasn't very smart - lololol!!!! I have had horrendous experiences with Skillshare and Domestika - so I totally understand teachers pain with these platforms but I absolutely can't believe what happened to you. I hope that you reported that teacher to You Tube as well. I absolutely know they would do something about that - whatever they could anyway because I know that they were totally behind my dear Cinnamon Cooney at one point. So, if it happened recently tell You Tube as well because they can block that person - not that the person couldn't some in through a different identity. Thanks for this Michele.
I once tried using a promotional link with Skillshare, from another artist here on RUclips. I had such a nightmare getting my details removed by Skillshare (I was being bombarded with unwanted emails!), I would never go anywhere near them again. Which is a shame, because there are some useful looking courses. I have quite a collection of books, but apart from the odd dip in and out of them, I think I could have saved myself a lot of money lol. I have found I learn more by watching and doing. I like to watch artists first, and then either just incorporate any techniques they have shown into my own work, or replay the video as I try and paint along. I am extremely grateful for all the free content put out by artists like you Michele. There are too many for me to support on a regular basis, but I am going to try and rotate on a month by month basis, to make occasional donations. Many thanks. 🙏💖
Hands on and shown.
Since you mentioned helicopter chasing, are you a secret agent?
You were the first artist I found on youtube when I first started into watercolour. I have learned so much from you. I keep coming back to you as you offer the most skilled and best presentation on how to learn different techniques and mediums. Another positive for online courses is that you can do them whenever you like. I sleep different hours all the time and I may be up all night and sleeping in the day. When I have purchased an online course I just do it at night.
I have been to quite a few one day workshops. I feel you can really get into it in the 4- 6 or so hours. I have learnt so much from them. I can then put some of the skills learnt in my own art journey. It has helped me grow my style. It is particularly good for changing mediums by going to different artists. That one to one help in a small group is invaluable
RUclips and a notebook are usually my go-to for learning new things.
Happy New Year!
Happy new year!
Mine is to actually paint and draw more, not just watch videos about it. And to paint or draw for the sake of doing it, not only for a special occasion or need. This way I could remove the feel of needing every piece to be a masterpiece or even great. I.e. just painting interesting subjects for myself, not always when would need a card, a gift, etc.
I agree. There is too much pressure when trying to follow videos and classes. Just drawing and painting for the sake of doing it makes it most enjoyable for me.
same here. I just drew a little bird's head last night because I only have 20 minutes before bedtime 😄
I really enjoy your videos and courses because you focus on techniques and drawing. I also have many books because I'm a better reader than listener 😅 and I can learn from different artists. I think you idea of putting it on your coursework on calendar is a great idea! I have many projects going at once because I get easily sidetracked.
I learn so much from watching artists paint. Especially if they take the time to explain the process they are teaching. I also like books so I can take my time to review what I have just observed on a video. It seems to cement the new procedure in my brain! Then I will get my paint brushes wet and if needed go back and review if I need to either on a video or in the book. Michele I have enjoyed every video that I have watched of yours. You are excellent at explaining the hows and whys etc. Thank you for doing all you do for this community! Happy New Year. Wishing you the best in the New Year.
Thank you so much Lori - Happy New Year!
I own 6 or 7 books, watched hours of RUclips videos and have some of Michele’s online courses. All of these resources have aided in my development. I have not tried a live course a bit self conscious but I really think this is my next step. Putting paint to paper is so important so always set time aside to just paint. This video content is why Michele is simply head and shoulders above other artists. Michele exceeded 10,000,000 views on RUclips so I am not the only one of this opioion. Peace, love and good karma to all.
Thank you!!
An interesting and informative video, Michele. Thank you. I really like your courses, there is the choice of buying the whole course or parts of them, depending on the depth of your pocket, without being tied in. I do watch other artists, but you teach. You don't just paint pretty pictures. Thank you again.
I found your channel just months ago, and for some time now I've been watching many of your videos. You are such a good teacher, the content you provide is incredible ... I can't thank you enough. I'm looking into signing up for something, soon. I always give a thumbs up.
Thank you!
I’m lucky enough to be able to take in person classes with a great artist very near me. They work for me because I work full time and am often tired by the end of the day, but like yourself, when I’ve paid the money, I’m going! This means that I show up and actually paint for two and a half hours each week. Since we’re required to have our paper stretched and our drawing done before class, that adds roughly another hour depending on the subject. I also watch a lot of free content on RUclips. There are some fantastic and really generous teachers like yourself who put out regular free content, although I must say, I’m a little guilty of watching rather than doing! That said, I still learn a lot from watching and I then can go back to the artist’s play list when I need to look at a technique or subject down the track (a good example is your spider web video, I’m planning a painting with a spider web so I’ll watch your video before I start my own). Great video as always Michele. I also think free content on RUclips gives an indication of what to expect if you want to have a go at a more in depth course with a particular artist. Thanks as always ❤
Just watching is still a great way to learn!
Wow a great explanation of each of these ways to get started to draw ✍️ or paint 🎨! I have only used RUclips videos/tutorials, many books 📚, and online courses to learn & build my art skills. I am hoping to do an in person art course/workshop soon. Hope you & Gimlet are enjoying this 2025 New Year as much as I am. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts & knowledge! Enjoy your weekend Michele 🫶🏻!
Happy New Year Colleen! Gimlet is taking the new year in his stride, but has mentioned that he deserves two breakfasts each day now.
@ 😁💕
I do most of these ideas to learn. I teach at a large Senior Center where there are two classes with over twenty in each.I co-teach one of us demonstrates and the other moved around to students.I love your short technique online videos.
Wow, big classes!
I have tried Patreon and I agree with what you said, it is about commitment and discipline. To educate myself in art I have tried RUclips videos, books, and one virtual class. I did not enjoy or learn much in that virtual class and felt it was a waste of money. I have never been in a real art class, but I just signed up for an art retreat in February. Let's see how that goes. Now, I would like to add a couple of comments to this video. For example, another con for RUclips is that one has to be selective and search extensively, because anybody can create videos, and not necessarily be an expert. Also, another con to platforms such as Skillshare and Coursera is that they require computer expertise one may or may not have. Thanks again for this video Michele, I like it because it is thought-provoking.
I prefer live in person classes however since I work, anything at the college level or even local ateliers are either at an inconvenient time or hideously expensive. So I like the RUclips tutorials and patreon. I do have some books because they make nice references but as you said, it's much easier to see somebody do it than to try to figure it out from a book. Classes get you exposed to other people's work and how they see things because we don't often see the same thing the same way
Yes I used to teach on a Saturday and it was very popular with workers, however I found when I taught in the evening no one wanted to come out in November and the light was poor too!
Patreon has made it easier to search content on. Creator's patreon. I do month to month@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber
I can totally relate to that lol! I think I should have been born in warmer climes, or should have been a squirrel haha - I tend to hibetnate in the winter months, going anywhere in evenings is a big no for me.
Very interesting I now know a bit more about many options I’ve heard about. I think the planning you talk about is correct, a teacher takes you step by step along the learning curve. And, in the net we’re drawn to skip perhaps too far ahead of ourselves or try things we’re not advanced enough for. I enjoy following your tutorials & video. And, I like seeing other artists & how they work. And, I like art books very much. A happy new year. Look forward to your new videos. Thank you.
Happy new year 🎊 😊
I go to art classes, but also at our senior centre a group of us meet once a week and just get on with whatever we are working on be it sketches or watercolour or acrylic. You name it. The camaraderie between us all is really special and some of us go to the pub or restaurant after. All good. If you love art and you are perfectly happy to stay at home, honing your craft, I think it's immensely important to find a club and join, or classes. Just my opinion of course and it works well for me.
Sounds fab!
Great good wishes for a happy, healthy 2025❣
I have been tempted to sign up for art platforms but it does get expensive, and you have to use it or you just waste your money. From experience, Facebook is terrible for taking no action regarding scammers - when people pretend to be someone that you know and nothing gets done about it, it's so frustrating. Anyway, Michele, thank you for your great art tips!
Great honest information thank you
My pleasure!
I purchased a couple of your online courses this last week (the tomatoes and the gouache succulents - loved both of these based on snip-its in RUclips videos) as they are on sale at the moment (held off based on your advice: 30% off between Christmas and New Year!!). I have only watched some of both at the moment as unfortunately I have a full time job (😞) and am waiting to have a block of time to properly dedicate to them. But just wanted to say that it was my choice to purchase them and if (very unlikely based on what I've seen so far and your RUclips content generally) I felt they were not for me and a poor choice there is absolutely no way I would attempt to get a refund. You provide us with enough information to make an informed choice and if we don't love what we've purchased too bad - at least we have supported an artist that we love who provides us with so much invaluable content and advice. Hurrah for cats! 😽
That's kind but I hope you love the courses! Cats rule 🙏🐈⬛
I consume lots of free online content and bookmark even more for watching/reading in the future (which I may or may not eventually get around to). I have books that I don't open. Have paid for online classes that I never get around to watching. Therefore, live in-person classes are best. Just too easy to passively consume, rather than actively create. ugh!
I understand, it's a modern life problem I think 😔
thank you
You're welcome
Hello! I have been shopping around guidance on starting my exploration into using watercolors. I have taken drawing courses in the past (like 25 years ago) and have never considered it a particular forte but am somewhat competent. Do I need to refresh my drawing skills before taking your beginning watercolor class?
My basic watercolor course for beginners requires almost no drawing, as it's based in simple techniques and paint control. It's always good to practice drawing but you don't need it for that course :-)
I’m finally back!!!!
Hi Rachelle!
Tik Toc is going away
In America, possibly, but I don't think even there it will, too much money involved on all sides. I'm not joining yet, let's see :-)