Watercolor: Watercolor 1

Special Techniques

WATERCOLOR IS IDEAL for experimenting with different techniques and special effects—for example, one of my favorite techniques is using ordinary table salt to create mottled textures, as I have done on the owl on the opposite page. By using the simple methods shown below, you will be able to produce a wide range of fascinating textures, create white areas and highlights, and even correct mistakes.

Creating Texture

Variations in texture make paintings more dynamic and lifelike, and they are a lot of fun to create. I add textures to my paintings for two reasons: either to add visual interest with a special effect or to copy the textures found in nature, such as fur, bark, or sand. Some special effects are achieved by adding paint, ...