327 - Beginning Watercolors
Adult Class | Registration opens 5/1/2026 12:00 AM CDT
Explore the fundamental techniques and expressive possibilities of watercolor painting. Learn to work with transparency and fluidity through techniques such as washes, wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, lifting, layering, and color mixing to create both controlled and expressive images. Through a variety of subjects, including still life, landscape, portrait, reference images, and personal or abstract projects, you will develop skills in composition, value, light, and color while gaining a deeper understanding of how water and pigment interact on paper. This class blends technical skill development with creativity and experimentation, offering personalized guidance and collaborative group feedback.
This is an 8-week class. No class June 19 and July 3.
Watercolor Paint
• Watercolor paint set (pan or tube)
• Student or professional quality, both acceptable
Recommended brands: Daniel Smith, Winsor & Newton, Schmincke Horadam, Holbein, Cotman, and Sakura Koi.
https://www.dickblick.com/categories/painting/watercolor-paint/
Watercolor Paper or Pad
• 140 lb (300 gsm) cold press watercolor paper
• Pad, block, or loose sheets
Recommended brands: Canson XL, Strathmore 400, Fabriano Studio, Arches, Fabriano Artistico https://www.dickblick.com/search/?q=Watercolor%20Paper%20or%20Pad
Brushes
• Round brush: Small(size 4 or lower), medium (size 6), and large (size 8-12) (one of each size is essential)
• Flat brush: ½" or 1" (recommended)
Recommended brands: Princeton, Winsor & Newton, Da Vinci
https://www.dickblick.com/categories/brushes/watercolor/
• Palette (for mixing colors)
• Water container (jar or cup)
• Pencil (HB or 2B)
• Eraser
• Paper towels or cloth (Recommend)
• Masking tape
Optional:
• Watercolor pencil