This FAQ has been compiled for the benefit of watercolour students who are at the beginning or in the early stages of their adventure into the wonderful world of watercolour. It has its roots in the accumulated wisdom of numerous Aquanet list members who have freely and generously shared their experiences with the rest of us. We hope that it will be of real benefit to those starting out on this challenging and exhilarating journey to master the art of painting in watercolours.
Throughout the FAQ you will see references to various books, brands, sites, and suppliers. These are not intended to be the best or only source of information or equipment. There are many other sources that could have been included had time and space permitted. If you wish to view work by members of the Aquanet list visit our Aquanet Members Web Site and Gallery. As well as members' paintings and links to their own websites you'll find various other goodies there.
EQUIPMENT:
What basic equipment do I need to get started?
What about lighting and workplace?
PAPER:
What do HP, CP (NOT) and Rough mean?
What do the different weights mean?
What is sizing and why is it considered important?
Do I need to stretch my paper, and how do I do it?
Are there any alternatives to stretching?
Should I use watercolour blocks or loose sheets?
What is the best way to store paper?
BRUSHES:
Which are preferable - natural or synthetic brushes?
What sizes should I buy and how many?
How should I care for and store brushes?
WATERCOLOUR PAINTS:
What is the difference between artist and student grade colours?
Which brand of paints is best?
How are watercolour paints made?
Should I purchase pans or tubes?
What are the various qualities of watercolour paint?
Is there a way of preventing the colours from drying lighter?
What books are available for learning more about pigments?
THE BASIC PALETTE AND COLOUR THEORY
What do I need to know about colour to get started?
What are complementary colours?
Which colours do I need for a basic palette?
Should I use black and white pigments in my watercolour work?
Are there some 'dark' mixtures I can substitute for black?
Why should I consider using a limited palette?
What do I need to know about using transparent and opaque colours?
How can I avoid mixing muddy colours?
Are there any good books on colour?
DRAWING
If I'm not very good at drawing - does that count me out?
What do I have to know about composition?
What books are available on composition?
Is learning about perspective important?
What books on perspective would be useful?
Are there any aids and devices that can help me with drawing?
How do I transfer my drawing to the watercolour paper?
What about photography as an aid?
BASIC PAINTING TECHNIQUES:
What are watercolour washes and how are they done?
What are the four basic methods of applying paint?
Is it better to layer washes or achieve a finished effect in one go?
What does value or tone mean and how do I use them?
How are different edges created?
My painting looks bland - how do I create some texture?
How can I keep portions of the paper white while I'm laying washes?
Are there any special tips on using masking fluid?
How do I lift out colour I don't like or if I need to lighten an area?
What are some general guidelines for developing a painting?
What is the best way to store finished paintings?
WATERCOLOUR PUBLICATIONS & ONLINE ADDRESSES:
What books are recommended for beginners?
Are there any magazines dealing with watercolour?
Are there any online suppliers of art materials?
Are there any online galleries and watercolour resource sites?