Watercolor: Doing a flat wash | Canson® (2024)

FAQs

How do you do a flat wash in watercolor? ›

This is watercolor basics. To apply a flat wash, you need to dilute some color in water, then apply it uniformly to part of the composition (to paint a sky, for example) or to the whole sheet of paper (to create the background).

What is a flat wash? A flat wash is a basic watercolor technique that you will use nearly every time you start a new painting. You usually use it when you need to cover a large area of your paper with paint. With the flat wash watercolor technique you end up with a flat or even area of color across the paper.

Be patient: Watercolour washes take time to dry, so be patient and don't try to add additional layers of paint before the previous layer is fully dry. This can cause streaks or unevenness in the wash.

The "washing out" process involves adding water on the artwork surface and washing the paint away. This technique can be used when paint is dry or semi-dry. Washing out can be done with clear water and also with light tints of paint. Small and large areas can both be washed out.

For mild buckling, place heavy, flat objects like books or boards on top of the paper and leave them for a day or two. This helps to slowly flatten the paper over time. Ensure even distribution of weight to avoid further damage. You can also press it behind glass in a picture frame.

Fortunately there's an easy solution: I iron my watercolors! This is a technique I've used for years that I was introduced to by artist Ann Breckon. First I prepare my tools, an iron and spray bottle. I make sure both are clean and filled with distilled water.

(I bet you can't guess what my favorite watercolour books are?!) 6. Leave to dry at least overnight. And there she is the next day, completely flat.

A wash is a term for a visual arts technique resulting in a semi-transparent layer of colour. A wash of diluted ink or watercolor paint applied in combination with drawing is called pen and wash, wash drawing, or ink and wash.

Definitions of flat wash. noun. ironing that can be done mechanically. synonyms: flatwork.

To do a graded wash on dry paper, start with a paint to water ratio of about 90 to 10. You want to start with as saturated of a color as possible. Then apply broad strokes back and forth. After a little bit, dip your brush in your water cup, and then blot quickly just to remove a little bit of excess water.

How do you get crisp lines in watercolor? ›

Use a “dry” brush.

If you want your brush to give a narrow line, it is very important that it is not full of color. A wet brush causes the straws to swell and the top becomes thick. When you need a really nice result, the brush just needs a little color in the hair.

Use a mild detergent or dish soap mixed with warm water on a damp cloth or sponge. Gently rub the scuff mark with the soapy solution using a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as it can cause the paint finish to fade or leave a noticeable shiny spot on the wall.

Flat watercolour brushes have a flat ferrule and usually short, squared bristles. They are great for lines, edges and geometric shapes, as well as watercolour washes. A large flat brush can cover the paper quickly, ensuring equal water content that's great for blending.