How to Use Watercolour Pencils: Easy Guide + Best Watercolour Pencils for Beginners! - Artsydee

Watercolour pencils are a fantastic medium for both novice and experienced artists alike, allowing for a seamless transition between drawing and painting. If you’re just starting your artistic journey, here's a simple guide to help you make the most of your watercolour pencils!

Getting Started:

1. Choose Your Pencils Wisely: For beginners, it’s essential to pick quality watercolour pencils that blend well and offer a wide range of colours. Brands like Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer, Derwent Watercolour, and Caran d’Ache Supracolor are highly recommended for their smooth application and vibrant hues.

2. Prepare Your Materials: You’ll need your watercolour pencils, a good quality watercolour paper, a fine paintbrush, and a container of clean water. Optional items include a pencil sharpener and a paper towel for blotting.

3. Sketch Your Design: Begin by lightly sketching your design or drawing with the watercolour pencils directly. The beauty of these pencils is that you can layer colours to create depth before adding water.

4. Activate the Colour: Dip your paintbrush in water and gently apply it to the areas where you want to activate the colour. Start with small strokes, as the pigment will spread quickly. You can control the intensity of the colour by varying the amount of water you use.

5. Blend and Layer: Experiment with blending different colours while wet for beautiful gradients. Allow each layer to dry before adding more for a richer effect.

6. Finish Your Piece: Once you’re satisfied with the watercolour effect, allow your artwork to dry completely. Consider using a fixative spray if you want to preserve your piece.

Best Watercolour Pencils for Beginners:

1. Faber-Castell Albrecht Dürer - Renowned for their excellent lightfastness and smooth blending capabilities.
2. Derwent Watercolour Pencils - Versatile and vibrant, they work well for both detailed and broader strokes.
3. Prismacolor Scholar Watercolour Pencils - An affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality, perfect for tossing in your art bag.

With just a few simple steps and the right tools, you can create stunning watercolour artwork that expresses your creativity. Dive into the world of watercolour pencils and enjoy the process of bringing your ideas to life!