I just recently got on my own case because I’ve been so afraid of “wasting” my precious supplies, that they’ve literally sat and gathered dust! But I had a sudden “NO MORE!” moment, as the only true way to waste art supplies is to never use them. Hell, even making mistakes is still making! So glory to all our messes, may our tubes run empty and our paper drip in a rainbow of colors!
I’m still struggling with this, with my success rate changing every day. But watching these videos is helping. Happy for you that you’ve reached that point!
Haha I laughed out loud with this statement. I remember when I used to quiver before cleaning off the old paint on the palette… waste.. ha! After years of making messes I enjoy the beauty of clean white and LOVE to squeeze out more paint! Means I can go shopping for more. Nothing more satisfying than squeezing out that last bit of pigment from a tube! Means I have used pigment and have been painting! Thanks for that statement! Will share with my beginner students.
Excellent. One other tip is when you have your brush loaded with paint but you’re aware there might be too much water in it, you can dab the part by the ferrule with a paper towel and that will remove excess water but keep the pigment in the tip and lower half of the brush. Then you don’t waste the paint or your time by redoing it all when in doubt.
Outstanding instruction. I can't get over how wonderful it is to watch a master like this -- I live in the sticks, yet I get to stand at his elbow! Thank you, Mr. Mitchell. You got me started in 2017.
2:00 Not making brush and paper moisture level changes when needed 10:51 Using your brush as a water manager, not just a paint applicator 15:12 Being too precious with palette mixtures
Wow! Essential information, not “just basics!” There’s something valuable in this video for every watercolor enthusiast, beginner to professional. Thanks for improving the lives of art geeks everywhere! :)
I’m learning to watercolor so I’m watching LOTS of videos. I don’t know why but something connected in my brain when you were talking about water as a medium like acrylic or oils. “Painting with water….” Lightbulb moment! Eureka! I found myself using too much pigment and wasn’t achieving the sheer beauty of this medium. Keep in mind, I am so so so new at this. I am learning so much from you. Granted, a lot of your videos are way over my head in execution. But man, they are beautiful! (I think I may be a touch older than you😜 but when I heard your music today, I thought Herb Albert!)
Same, I was mentally forehead slapping myself, like geez! But thinking on it, I’ve only really done acrylic and a little oil, but mostly stuck with dry mediums like charcoal and graphite. This is literally the exact opposite but I was treating it the same, now my brain has done a somersault and I’m excited to get playing with my paints again 😃
thank you *so much* for making this video. i've been dancing around watercolour for a few years because every time i paint it goes badly and i haven't dived in because i don't know what i'm doing. every person i've seen approach the subject of water control exclusively deals with wash strength, which hasn't helped at all because wash strength is only one small part of the role of water in watercolor! just the opening of the video alone, when you said that watercolourists are painting with water - my mind was blown! it makes sense, of course it does, but that's not how i've been thinking about water - i've been thinking about it as a temporary pain in the butt that i can overcome if i can get pigment-to-water ratios correct in my mixes on the palette - as if the palette itself is the only water management tool. your tips on blotting materials and not being shy about changing up water while painting, showing your setup and how to use the stuff - all of this was so, so useful.
I have not even finished watching and can’t wait to say how much I LOVE your water control vids. A long time ago, In the beginning of my learning journey in a galaxy far far away I found YOU! And the light bulbs came on! No one explained more clearly and simply and made me laugh at the same time. Water and pigment control on GOOD paper are essential to less frustration and more success. You are just the best and so clear! I send everyone to your beginner series when they ask for more RUclips help. Thanks for all the years of your sharing. 🙏🥰
Among the huge numbers of watercolourists on RUclips you are one of the very few I follow religiously Steve. Every one of your videos teaches me a little something in an area I thought I had covered already. I thanked you many times and I’ll do it again: thank you for the time you spend on us.
I am a newbie and I follow several artists, but I totally enjoy (and chuckle) at your delivery! I so appreciate the in detail guidance you provide. So many artists just don’t go in to detail on HOW things are done. And, I love how you go over even the “duh” things because you are directly speaking to me! LOL Love it!
Thanks for the "news you can use" Steve! I dunno how you seem to get the RIGHT mixture of subject matter (spontaneous, abstract, realist, landscape, still life) - but you get the PERFECT balance! I absolutely need that "back to the basics" information over and over again ... so keep it up! Thanks again!
Thanks for another great tutorial! Controlling the amount of water is one of my biggest problems, but I didn't understand how to fix it. This is also a MARVELOUS reason for using up paints! While watching I thought, "Is there any reason I can't do this kind of practice with my cheap, "junkier" paint? I have very little quality paint. It's on my wish list from several sites, but I can't justify buying any more since I have quite a bit of my crafting paints & student stuff I inherited from my kids' college supplies. As you say, I've been really precious with my "GOOD" paint. I am treating my supplies so VERY precious that I haven't been painting at all, especially after seeing the blends you get with DS paints & knowing why I should be using the "good stuff." Sincerely, Thanks for the inspiration and instruction, God Bless You, Teresa
Great video, Steve! I’ve been playing with watercolor for a few years and have taken classes from 3 different instructors. Keep asking for help with the paint/water ratio, but none of the instructors talks about that. I feel like that’s where I’ve been stuck…basically painting with pigment instead of water with some pigment as you mentioned. Really appreciate this “back to the basics” video!
Now that I finished the whole thing I will add that if I do the LAZY and forget to blot or dry the brush etc I go back to the frustrating place. I sit and ponder and remind self that blot , blot, control that water is the key. I bought a pack of facecloths at Costco and use them instead of paper towels as much as I can to control the water. It is now a habit and all thanks to you. Love that squirt bottle idea for wetting paint too. Thanks .
Great advice! Several tips in there I hadn't really thought about. The 'painting with water' concept struck a cord with me. It explains (to me) why I have so much trouble with other types of paint. lol I definitely fall into the 'paint is precious' club. In the past I could never get myself to remove any of the watery paint from my brush because I didn't want to waste any. The trick that got me past that was to remove the excess water from only the belly of the brush on the edge of a folded towel, leaving the tip untouched. The excess water is removed and all/most of the lovely pigment is left in the tip of the brush. I also have a few mixing surfaces (mainly small white plates) that I use for each color 'family'. One for blues, one for reds and so forth. It got me over the fear of wasting paint, because I rarely have a need to completely clean my mixing surfaces. ... And the inevitable neutral mud is great for shadowy areas or backgrounds. Thanks, as always, for all you do!
As for being "precious" with your paint, being afraid to waste it. I almost always find use for a colour I mix, even if it's using it for an under painting or adding more pigment to make a "black". So... don't be afraid of wasting paint just enjoy the process and playing with the paint that's half the fun! 😉
This Water Control video was just what I was needing this week with my painting, especially #3. I have a huge bad habit of watering down my pigments way too much. About the only way I can really get my watercolor control is with the water brush (water filled barrel). I am wanting to be to do it with the traditional brushes so it’s taking quite a bit of practice. 😁But that’s what I need to do. I also need to add quite a few more of the items you have (rags, sponges 🧽, towels) besides just the paper towels. Thanks for sharing this informational video & showing us with examples how to get better results and mastering these techniques and skills.
Wow, impressive that you can control water/pigment with a water brush! I always take one for outside sketching but can never achieve anything like the same look. You inspire me to keep working at it.
Funny, i just commented the opposite. I've been used to painting at home with normal brushes, and now that I'm trying to paint outside with a reservoir brush, everything is always too wet. I guess it's a matter of figuring out and getting used to something new for both of us. Good luck!
I bought good quality microfiber washcloths which are a little bigger than traditional bath washcloths. They soak up a bunch of liquid, can be folded in halves/ thirds/ quarters, and rinse out fairly easily in clear water (except for stainers like the thalos). They also dry really quick when I hang them over my box fan. Cheap (at walmart) and efficient.
Thanks for the enlightening video, with some great tips on what should be a common sense feature of watercolour painting, but sadly common sense is NOT as common as it is reputed...at least not where I am concerned. I am going to practice all of your tips until I get it right...Cheers !!!
This is really good, sound advice. So happy to have seen this and half way through I went and set up my watercolour station now with plenty of cloths, paper towels etc. Feeling really empowered with this knowledge.
This really helped to change to thinking of it managing water not just putting down paint! Also helping to not be afraid to mox larger amounts to start with! Thanks Steve.
My biggest problem is letting the paint layers dry enough, I’m always to impatient and start the next level to soon. Have to listen to myself and walk away. Thanks Steve good video.
I just have to tell you Thank You! This video has actually turned on a light bulb for me! Learning water color online has been fun but I haven't improved as much as I think I should have. This video has really made a difference for me in my creations! I don't want to put the paint brush down now!!! Thanks Steve! I Have always enjoyed your videos.
I absolutely love your channel! The water control and mixing tutorial is wonderful. I’m a newbie and would like for you as you teach to do a bit of a scene to show the actuality of water control and value control. The theory is great I just need a picture! Mind of watercolor is a blessing!
I found that shop towel paper towel was good to aid me and it’s more absorbent than regular paper towel. Tip: you can remove water by touching the back of the brush with paper towel
This was very informative. I hadn't even thought about water management. Adding more water washes out the brilliance of color I use in a painting. Now I see how I'm making this mistake. Gonna start thinking my paint is so precious that I become afraid to use more paint and less water. DUH...learned something so obvious from this lesson. Thanks Steve Mitchell!
Haven't checked in to your site for a while but now I remember how much I love your tutorials. Love revisiting the basics because I often forget them. Also love your style of teaching along with your calm and relaxed style. Thanks so much!!!
Thanks for another terrific video! Such a great way to put it, we are using water as a medium!! Realizing I have been guilty of not using enough water!! Afraid of it?! Thanks for this lightbulb moment!
Being precious with paint is truly ridiculous with watercolor. By nature, watercolor stretches very, very far. It’s nice to watch these basics to see how far I’ve come along. Once I discovered moving the paint to another well if I wanted a tea consistency it was a true Eureka moment. Thanks for all your wise words Steve. Blessings to you and everyone!
Thank you for these great reminders and tips. I am guilty of not allowing my work to completely dry. Too impatient on my behave. Your tips and been so helpful on my journey to this Art. Thank you
This video hits right where my frustrations have been lately. Thank you for all the great tips! I have been telling my non painter husband that if I don't learn how to control the water the water controls me!! Waiting for the paint to dry is the hardest part but taking a break to move a bit or do a small chore seems to help with that.
Thank you so much, I just started to use a nr 8 round pencil. Always used the small pencils and... I cannot believe it, but it is soooo much easier and faster. So happy find your channel, I guess i learn even much more than i realise ! Can't wait for more ;-).
My paint dries really fast! I have Daniel smith, pentel and Windsor newton … I think the temp in my room might be warmer than most but I cannot change that. Just surprised at how fast they dry. Definitely having to add more water before finishing. I tend to paint in sections because of this.
This was excellent. All of it was helpful. I need to remind myself that the water ratio within the brush is very important and not to add so much water to the pigment. My washes tend to be too light.
Steve, once again.....you are absolutely the best teacher! You have a special gift for explaining things in a way that makes it easy to understand and learn the details from all your videos. Thank you VERY MUCH!
Thank you for reminding us about these. I not consciously been thinking about these as they are automatic of how I’m employing these brush and water management.
This was so incredibly helpful, Steve, thank you so much! So many useful reminders about the basics - you can’t repeat them often enough, specially for rookies like me!
This was a excellent lesson! I need to learn how to control water to pigment even when making swatches. I’ve found that I don’t always have a good balance, so therefore I’m not really able to capture the true value of my pigment. Of course, the quality of paper I’m using matters plenty also! Thank you for another helpful lesson 😍.
Despite painting with watercolors for a while now, I'm always excited when you post a video like this, with the fundamentals of the media. Thank you for doing this.
Steve, thank you! This is exactly what I needed, to be hit over the head, lightbulb moment as another viewer said, ah-HA moment, and practice practice practice! Break those bad habits! Thanks again
@@mindofwatercolor I'll be back! I have new large paintings for a gallery that's got it's grand opening coming up in Montana this summer 😳 I love your videos cuz I always learn so much! Stay cool my friend!
As a beginner, I continue to gravitate to your tutorials because they are so useful as well as inspiring. I have been using water and brush with little-to-no control because i hadn't been instructed what to do. THANK YOU! This tutorial has completely changed how i approach my pallette and paper!
Thanks for this video!! I have problems getting the paper to stay wet. It just seems to dry way too quickly no matter how much water I start with. I've tried several different papers and still have the problem. I know I don't use enough pigment too sometimes do maybe I can to better after this. I don't know, it's hard. Lol
Thank you so much! I started watercolor (and drawing) a week ago and your videos, as the way you explain things in general, have been among the most instructive and useful in helping me understand why I was not getting anything close to what I expected, what I should try to do otherwise and how. It almost feels like you're standing next to me while I paint and explain what I did wrong ;)
Thanks for these basic tutorials! I'd like to see more tips on glazing. Especially when applied to real paintings...meaning more practical use cases instead of painting a couple of glazed swatches on a piece of paper. I never really learned much from watching swatches.
I always have trouble with gauging how dry my paper is. It's either wetter than I think it is, or then within 5 seconds it's completely dry... it's mind boggling to me. I'm using 100% cotton paper, but I can't gauge humidity to save my life.
How many different papers have you tried, Romilly? I ask because I had this issue for a bit, but with trying other cotton papers I discovered that I am actually not that bad. It's just that some papers give you a very tiny window of time to gauge these things, and some give you a bigger window. Having a bigger window is a big help for some of us! 💕
It's a feel you gain over time. Judging paper wetness can sometimes be elusive even with experience. But what you can and should be able to learn is how to adjust quickly and adapt to it once you determine that dampness level.
Thank you for an excellent presentation! I am a retired oldster new to watercolor, and I have a tendency to use too much pigment, resulting in "coloring book" looking pictures. I love the transparency and variations I see in good watercolor pictures, but still am having a hard time creating just that. I now realize I need to spend more time in with light and middle tones using the water more effectively as you demonstrated. This lesson really resonated with me. Thank you again!
Okay, you need to stop watching me paint.😂 Seriously, I think I do…all of these? Maybe? Although I object to being called lazy, I am impatient, thank you very much-especially when it comes to letting a layer dry completely before going back to it. My tips for dealing with that are: 1. If the paint looks totally dry but the paper feels cool, the paint is not actually completely dry and therefore I need to let it dry some more; and 2. Have multiple projects going so I can work on something else instead of literally sitting around watching paint dry. Both of these things have helped me keep my colors from getting too muddy because I didn’t let the paint get absolutely dry.
Great tips. But fyi, impatience is just another form of laziness. LOL! ok yes I'm poking fun. And we've all done these mistakes. They still pop up for me from time to time even after 40+ years of painting.
I just recently got on my own case because I’ve been so afraid of “wasting” my precious supplies, that they’ve literally sat and gathered dust! But I had a sudden “NO MORE!” moment, as the only true way to waste art supplies is to never use them. Hell, even making mistakes is still making! So glory to all our messes, may our tubes run empty and our paper drip in a rainbow of colors!
Guilty as charged! I've been using cheap materials while the good stuff is locked up for when I get better.
Amen to all of this!! I got to that point 3 weeks ago and haven’t looked back since!!!!
this was a very informative video for me….painting with water makes a lot of sense, i never thought about it that way, thank you so much👍🏼
@@imjesssayin1706 good for you!! 🤗
I’m still struggling with this, with my success rate changing every day. But watching these videos is helping. Happy for you that you’ve reached that point!
“If you’re being precious with your paint and are afraid to waste it, you’re not painting.”
Thank you! 🎨 👍
Absolutely!
Haha I laughed out loud with this statement. I remember when I used to quiver before cleaning off the old paint on the palette… waste.. ha! After years of making messes I enjoy the beauty of clean white and LOVE to squeeze out more paint! Means I can go shopping for more. Nothing more satisfying than squeezing out that last bit of pigment from a tube! Means I have used pigment and have been painting! Thanks for that statement! Will share with my beginner students.
Excellent. One other tip is when you have your brush loaded with paint but you’re aware there might be too much water in it, you can dab the part by the ferrule with a paper towel and that will remove excess water but keep the pigment in the tip and lower half of the brush. Then you don’t waste the paint or your time by redoing it all when in doubt.
Finally a teacher who can teach. You really cover all your topics with such honesty and knowledge. Brings back the joy again.
Outstanding instruction. I can't get over how wonderful it is to watch a master like this -- I live in the sticks, yet I get to stand at his elbow! Thank you, Mr. Mitchell. You got me started in 2017.
Exactly how I feel. I could never afford instruction like this. What a great guy.
Good video. I use a doggy diaper pad next to palette as a towel, and also paper towels
My favorite method of water control is what I call the W.O.S.S method. Wipe On Sweat Shirt. :)
😂
2:00 Not making brush and paper moisture level changes when needed
10:51 Using your brush as a water manager, not just a paint applicator
15:12 Being too precious with palette mixtures
Wow! Essential information, not “just basics!” There’s something valuable in this video for every watercolor enthusiast, beginner to professional. Thanks for improving the lives of art geeks everywhere! :)
I’m learning to watercolor so I’m watching LOTS of videos. I don’t know why but something connected in my brain when you were talking about water as a medium like acrylic or oils. “Painting with water….” Lightbulb moment! Eureka! I found myself using too much pigment and wasn’t achieving the sheer beauty of this medium. Keep in mind, I am so so so new at this. I am learning so much from you. Granted, a lot of your videos are way over my head in execution. But man, they are beautiful! (I think I may be a touch older than you😜 but when I heard your music today, I thought Herb Albert!)
Oh my goodness, me too!!! This video is exactly what I needed.
Same, I was mentally forehead slapping myself, like geez! But thinking on it, I’ve only really done acrylic and a little oil, but mostly stuck with dry mediums like charcoal and graphite. This is literally the exact opposite but I was treating it the same, now my brain has done a somersault and I’m excited to get playing with my paints again 😃
I do that too, that’s why I let my paints dry instead of using fresh paint.😭
Me..too..! Super saturation…
thank you *so much* for making this video. i've been dancing around watercolour for a few years because every time i paint it goes badly and i haven't dived in because i don't know what i'm doing. every person i've seen approach the subject of water control exclusively deals with wash strength, which hasn't helped at all because wash strength is only one small part of the role of water in watercolor! just the opening of the video alone, when you said that watercolourists are painting with water - my mind was blown! it makes sense, of course it does, but that's not how i've been thinking about water - i've been thinking about it as a temporary pain in the butt that i can overcome if i can get pigment-to-water ratios correct in my mixes on the palette - as if the palette itself is the only water management tool. your tips on blotting materials and not being shy about changing up water while painting, showing your setup and how to use the stuff - all of this was so, so useful.
I have not even finished watching and can’t wait to say how much I LOVE your water control vids. A long time ago, In the beginning of my learning journey in a galaxy far far away I found YOU! And the light bulbs came on! No one explained more clearly and simply and made me laugh at the same time. Water and pigment control on GOOD paper are essential to less frustration and more success. You are just the best and so clear! I send everyone to your beginner series when they ask for more RUclips help. Thanks for all the years of your sharing. 🙏🥰
I really appreciate these basics - not a lot of other instructional videos do this, and I guess they just assume you already know.
Among the huge numbers of watercolourists on RUclips you are one of the very few I follow religiously Steve. Every one of your videos teaches me a little something in an area I thought I had covered already. I thanked you many times and I’ll do it again: thank you for the time you spend on us.
Thanks a great video . For me having scrap of same paper to test on is a big help.
Excellent tutorial!
I am a newbie and I follow several artists, but I totally enjoy (and chuckle) at your delivery! I so appreciate the in detail guidance you provide. So many artists just don’t go in to detail on HOW things are done. And, I love how you go over even the “duh” things because you are directly speaking to me! LOL Love it!
This is really helpful! Water control is definitely a problem for me and it's not typically discussed in beginner tutorials. Thank you Steve
Fantastic tutorial. Thank you
Thanks. Here’s another problem. Being too precious with your paper!
Great tutorial. Thanks a lot
Great lesson thank you
Thank you so much. Some really helpful tips there. I have always struggled to mix enough paint. I always seem to be having to add more. Thank you.
Always love you videos and delivery of info
Thanks for the "news you can use" Steve! I dunno how you seem to get the RIGHT mixture of subject matter (spontaneous, abstract, realist, landscape, still life) - but you get the PERFECT balance! I absolutely need that "back to the basics" information over and over again ... so keep it up! Thanks again!
Thanks for another great tutorial! Controlling the amount of water is one of my biggest problems, but I didn't understand how to fix it. This is also a MARVELOUS reason for using up paints!
While watching I thought, "Is there any reason I can't do this kind of practice with my cheap, "junkier" paint? I have very little quality paint. It's on my wish list from several sites, but I can't justify buying any more since I have quite a bit of my crafting paints & student stuff I inherited from my kids' college supplies. As you say, I've been really precious with my "GOOD" paint. I am treating my supplies so VERY precious that I haven't been painting at all, especially after seeing the blends you get with DS paints & knowing why I should be using the "good stuff."
Sincerely, Thanks for the inspiration and instruction,
God Bless You, Teresa
Great video, Steve! I’ve been playing with watercolor for a few years and have taken classes from 3 different instructors. Keep asking for help with the paint/water ratio, but none of the instructors talks about that. I feel like that’s where I’ve been stuck…basically painting with pigment instead of water with some pigment as you mentioned. Really appreciate this “back to the basics” video!
Now that I finished the whole thing I will add that if I do the LAZY and forget to blot or dry the brush etc I go back to the frustrating place. I sit and ponder and remind self that blot , blot, control that water is the key. I bought a pack of facecloths at Costco and use them instead of paper towels as much as I can to control the water. It is now a habit and all thanks to you. Love that squirt bottle idea for wetting paint too. Thanks .
Good tips and tricks. 👍🏻
Loved listening to this video. I've been too stingy with my paint pigments!
Very helpful thanks
Thanks very helpful.
Great advice! Several tips in there I hadn't really thought about. The 'painting with water' concept struck a cord with me. It explains (to me) why I have so much trouble with other types of paint. lol
I definitely fall into the 'paint is precious' club. In the past I could never get myself to remove any of the watery paint from my brush because I didn't want to waste any. The trick that got me past that was to remove the excess water from only the belly of the brush on the edge of a folded towel, leaving the tip untouched. The excess water is removed and all/most of the lovely pigment is left in the tip of the brush. I also have a few mixing surfaces (mainly small white plates) that I use for each color 'family'. One for blues, one for reds and so forth. It got me over the fear of wasting paint, because I rarely have a need to completely clean my mixing surfaces. ... And the inevitable neutral mud is great for shadowy areas or backgrounds.
Thanks, as always, for all you do!
That's really smart! I'll have to try that. Thanks!
As for being "precious" with your paint, being afraid to waste it. I almost always find use for a colour I mix, even if it's using it for an under painting or adding more pigment to make a "black". So... don't be afraid of wasting paint just enjoy the process and playing with the paint that's half the fun! 😉
Exactly! Well said.
This Water Control video was just what I was needing this week with my painting, especially #3. I have a huge bad habit of watering down my pigments way too much. About the only way I can really get my watercolor control is with the water brush (water filled barrel). I am wanting to be to do it with the traditional brushes so it’s taking quite a bit of practice. 😁But that’s what I need to do. I also need to add quite a few more of the items you have (rags, sponges 🧽, towels) besides just the paper towels. Thanks for sharing this informational video & showing us with examples how to get better results and mastering these techniques and skills.
1
Wow, impressive that you can control water/pigment with a water brush! I always take one for outside sketching but can never achieve anything like the same look. You inspire me to keep working at it.
Funny, i just commented the opposite. I've been used to painting at home with normal brushes, and now that I'm trying to paint outside with a reservoir brush, everything is always too wet. I guess it's a matter of figuring out and getting used to something new for both of us. Good luck!
I bought good quality microfiber washcloths which are a little bigger than traditional bath washcloths. They soak up a bunch of liquid, can be folded in halves/ thirds/ quarters, and rinse out fairly easily in clear water (except for stainers like the thalos). They also dry really quick when I hang them over my box fan. Cheap (at walmart) and efficient.
@@katepanthera7265 Oh thanks 😊. I actually have got a few of those around the house from my husband’s workshop. I will definitely give it a try.
Thanks for the enlightening video, with some great tips on what should be a common sense feature of watercolour painting, but sadly common sense is NOT as common as it is reputed...at least not where I am concerned.
I am going to practice all of your tips until I get it right...Cheers !!!
This is really useful!!! I'm learning a lot from this video!! Thank you so much!!!!!!
This is really good, sound advice. So happy to have seen this and half way through I went and set up my watercolour station now with plenty of cloths, paper towels etc. Feeling really empowered with this knowledge.
This really helped to change to thinking of it managing water not just putting down paint! Also helping to not be afraid to mox larger amounts to start with! Thanks Steve.
My biggest problem is letting the paint layers dry enough, I’m always to impatient and start the next level to soon. Have to listen to myself and walk away. Thanks Steve good video.
Very thorough, comprehensive and clear instruction on these essential skills.
OMG I LOVE YOUR SHIRT
As a new painter, this kind of instruction is invaluable. Knowing things like this will save time, aggravation and money
sir, you nailed every single critical aspect of control here! One of the best instructional videos ever!!!
This is so simple but I never heard it explained so well. sSeeing the pictures of varied drying cloths and surfaces etc. really helpedI
Pled
I just have to tell you Thank You! This video has actually turned on a light bulb for me! Learning water color online has been fun but I haven't improved as much as I think I should have. This video has really made a difference for me in my creations! I don't want to put the paint brush down now!!! Thanks Steve! I Have always enjoyed your videos.
Thank you Steve, much needed 🙏
I absolutely love your channel! The water control and mixing tutorial is wonderful. I’m a newbie and would like for you as you teach to do a bit of a scene to show the actuality of water control and value control. The theory is great I just need a picture! Mind of watercolor is a blessing!
Yes, thank you, Steve. This is just what the doctor ordered! You covered lots of problems in this one video. There is hope
Since I have found your channel, I've learned so much. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
🙏 Thank you !!!!!!
I found that shop towel paper towel was good to aid me and it’s more absorbent than regular paper towel. Tip: you can remove water by touching the back of the brush with paper towel
Thank you so much. This video showed me everything I was doing wrong with the water/paint ratio I was using. I guess I am stingy on paint. 😂
This was very informative. I hadn't even thought about water management. Adding more water washes out the brilliance of color I use in a painting. Now I see how I'm making this mistake. Gonna start thinking my paint is so precious that I become afraid to use more paint and less water. DUH...learned something so obvious from this lesson. Thanks Steve Mitchell!
Haven't checked in to your site for a while but now I remember how much I love your tutorials. Love revisiting the basics because I often forget them. Also love your style of teaching along with your calm and relaxed style. Thanks so much!!!
Such a well-presented resource, Steve!
Well hey there! Thanks Denise. I appreciate you stopping by.
Thanks for another terrific video! Such a great way to put it, we are using water as a medium!! Realizing I have been guilty of not using enough water!! Afraid of it?! Thanks for this lightbulb moment!
Being precious with paint is truly ridiculous with watercolor. By nature, watercolor stretches very, very far. It’s nice to watch these basics to see how far I’ve come along. Once I discovered moving the paint to another well if I wanted a tea consistency it was a true Eureka moment. Thanks for all your wise words Steve. Blessings to you and everyone!
Thank you for these great reminders and tips. I am guilty of not allowing my work to completely dry. Too impatient on my behave.
Your tips and been so helpful on my journey to this Art. Thank you
We all do it from time to time. Thanks!
This video hits right where my frustrations have been lately. Thank you for all the great tips! I have been telling my non painter husband that if I don't learn how to control the water the water controls me!! Waiting for the paint to dry is the hardest part but taking a break to move a bit or do a small chore seems to help with that.
Eureka! Love the idea of so many blotting options and water management. Really helpful.
As ever, I find your approach super accessible, and your narration of the video really clear and helpful. Thank you
Thank you so much, I just started to use a nr 8 round pencil. Always used the small pencils and... I cannot believe it, but it is soooo much easier and faster. So happy find your channel, I guess i learn even much more than i realise ! Can't wait for more ;-).
Thank you for some very helpful tips. Could you please let us know what palettes you showed in this video? Thanks!!
Thank you for being patient enough to explain in detail without being repetitive
Very helpful, thanks. I do often have trouble not mixing enough paint.
This is very helpful. I will be rewatching it as I work. Thank you so much.
My paint dries really fast! I have Daniel smith, pentel and Windsor newton … I think the temp in my room might be warmer than most but I cannot change that. Just surprised at how fast they dry. Definitely having to add more water before finishing. I tend to paint in sections because of this.
That was really helpful and I really wanted to see you apply those mixes onto the paper as an image to watch how you control the intensity
That was super helpful! Thank you Steve. As always great contents
I am new and watch lots of videos. I have found this to be one of the most helpful regarding this subject. Thank you.
This was excellent. All of it was helpful. I need to remind myself that the water ratio within the brush is very important and not to add so much water to the pigment. My washes tend to be too light.
Steve, once again.....you are absolutely the best teacher! You have a special gift for explaining things in a way that makes it easy to understand and learn the details from all your videos. Thank you VERY MUCH!
Thank you for reminding us about these. I not consciously been thinking about these as they are automatic of how I’m employing these brush and water management.
This was so incredibly helpful, Steve, thank you so much! So many useful reminders about the basics - you can’t repeat them often enough, specially for rookies like me!
Wow, wish I would have known this when I started painting a year ago. Very helpful!
This was a excellent lesson! I need to learn how to control water to pigment even when making swatches. I’ve found that I don’t always have a good balance, so therefore I’m not really able to capture the true value of my pigment. Of course, the quality of paper I’m using matters plenty also! Thank you for another helpful lesson 😍.
Yep... guilty of being too stingy and having to remix and "hope" I get that next ratio right.
When you teach it makes sense. I like your back to basic videos. Thanks
Despite painting with watercolors for a while now, I'm always excited when you post a video like this, with the fundamentals of the media. Thank you for doing this.
Steve, thank you! This is exactly what I needed, to be hit over the head, lightbulb moment as another viewer said, ah-HA moment, and practice practice practice! Break those bad habits! Thanks again
Great advice . Nothing worse than trying to colour match when you run out of the mix. Good tips. Thanks
-----"Are You Still Making These 3 Watercolor Control Mistakes?"
•Yes
•Yes and
•YES
Hey buddy. Thanks for stopping by. Hope we get to see another video from you soon.
@@mindofwatercolor I'll be back! I have new large paintings for a gallery that's got it's grand opening coming up in Montana this summer 😳
I love your videos cuz I always learn so much! Stay cool my friend!
Thank you! This is so very helpful as I still struggle with using too much water.
Thank you so very much!
As a beginner, I continue to gravitate to your tutorials because they are so useful as well as inspiring. I have been using water and brush with little-to-no control because i hadn't been instructed what to do. THANK YOU! This tutorial has completely changed how i approach my pallette and paper!
Thanks for this video!! I have problems getting the paper to stay wet. It just seems to dry way too quickly no matter how much water I start with. I've tried several different papers and still have the problem. I know I don't use enough pigment too sometimes do maybe I can to better after this. I don't know, it's hard. Lol
One thousand likes for this video!! Thank you! There's no one who doesn't need reminding.😊
I always run out of paint in the middle of a nice big wash ! Grr haha I need a huge pallet like yours
Thank you so much! I started watercolor (and drawing) a week ago and your videos, as the way you explain things in general, have been among the most instructive and useful in helping me understand why I was not getting anything close to what I expected, what I should try to do otherwise and how. It almost feels like you're standing next to me while I paint and explain what I did wrong ;)
Boy did I ever need that. Thanks so much.
This is great, Steve! Thank you so much. I definitely found this useful.
Thanks for these basic tutorials! I'd like to see more tips on glazing. Especially when applied to real paintings...meaning more practical use cases instead of painting a couple of glazed swatches on a piece of paper. I never really learned much from watching swatches.
Make sure you check out the videos I've done on glazing on actual paintings. There are several actually.
Ha ha #1 and #3 Thank you so much. This reminder was so helpful. 😊💛👍
Super helpful Steve..I think I add too much water and not enough pigment for my desired effect!
Thank you for this information, Steve. I'm wondering why you only use one cup of water instead of two? :) Thank you!
I do use two when I'm painting. This was just a demo.
I always have trouble with gauging how dry my paper is. It's either wetter than I think it is, or then within 5 seconds it's completely dry... it's mind boggling to me. I'm using 100% cotton paper, but I can't gauge humidity to save my life.
How many different papers have you tried, Romilly? I ask because I had this issue for a bit, but with trying other cotton papers I discovered that I am actually not that bad. It's just that some papers give you a very tiny window of time to gauge these things, and some give you a bigger window. Having a bigger window is a big help for some of us! 💕
It's a feel you gain over time. Judging paper wetness can sometimes be elusive even with experience. But what you can and should be able to learn is how to adjust quickly and adapt to it once you determine that dampness level.
Thank you for an excellent presentation! I am a retired oldster new to watercolor, and I have a tendency to use too much pigment, resulting in "coloring book" looking pictures. I love the transparency and variations I see in good watercolor pictures, but still am having a hard time creating just that. I now realize I need to spend more time in with light and middle tones using the water more effectively as you demonstrated. This lesson really resonated with me. Thank you again!
Okay, you need to stop watching me paint.😂 Seriously, I think I do…all of these? Maybe? Although I object to being called lazy, I am impatient, thank you very much-especially when it comes to letting a layer dry completely before going back to it. My tips for dealing with that are: 1. If the paint looks totally dry but the paper feels cool, the paint is not actually completely dry and therefore I need to let it dry some more; and 2. Have multiple projects going so I can work on something else instead of literally sitting around watching paint dry. Both of these things have helped me keep my colors from getting too muddy because I didn’t let the paint get absolutely dry.
Great tips. But fyi, impatience is just another form of laziness. LOL! ok yes I'm poking fun. And we've all done these mistakes. They still pop up for me from time to time even after 40+ years of painting.
Thanks! I needed that! Very helpful and empowering advice.
Carol in Bostob