Hey friends, it’s Kate! Today, I’m excited to share my process for creating a beautiful abstract watercolor painting using some simple materials. First off, I freshened up my work surface with some brand new contact paper! What do ya think? It’s an easy way to have fun and not worry about paint ruining any surfaces, which I love.
Now, onto the painting! I’ve got my watercolor palette and paper ready to go. For the first layer, I’m experimenting with different brush strokes and a lighter color palette. I blend colors like Indigo and Raw Sienna, creating a soft, cloudy effect on the paper.
Moving on to the second layer, I add more contrast with deeper shades like Burnt Umber. Using a glazing technique, I build depth and texture on the paper. Then, I introduce mark-making with pens, creating delicate lines and abstract patterns.
For the third layer, I bring in acrylic ink for a pop of color and texture. I apply it with a dropper for a swirly effect, continuing to experiment with mark-making using brushes to create random, organic shapes and define certain areas of the painting.
Finally, I add gold ink for a touch of sparkle and highlights, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the painting. Throughout this painting, I loved experimenting with marks, textures, and color. This muted palette compared to the other colorful things I do has been so relaxing and fun. I hope you try it!
Whether you’re experienced or a beginner, anyone can follow along and create something beautiful with watercolors and simple tools. So grab your materials and let’s get painting!