Watercolor is a painting technique that uses water-soluble pigments to create beautiful and vibrant works of art. When choosing watercolor materials, it's important to consider the quality and type of paper, paints, and brushes to achieve the best results. Here are some tips to help you choose the right materials for watercolor:
1 - Papers
Choose papers with a weight of at least 300gsm, which are thicker and denser to withstand the amount of water required for the technique. We recommend the "XL Aquarelle" paper pad and the "Montval" pad for beginners, as both have excellent textures and handle water well.
There are different types of paper textures for watercolor, from smooth to granulated, which can affect the final outcome of your painting. It's interesting to experiment with different paper types to find the one that suits your technique and style best.
2 - Paints
Watercolor paints can be found in tubes, pans, or tubes. Tube paints are often more concentrated, allowing them to be diluted with water to create lighter shades. Pans are more practical and portable but may have less pigment than tube paints. Tubes are an intermediate option between the two.
The 15-color Van Gogh set is a good choice for those looking to invest in intermediate quality paints. Its composition consists of high-quality ground pigments and can vary in quality and price. If you're just starting out, you can opt for more affordable paints from well-known brands like Pentel or Faber Castell.
This fish in the image, for example, was painted with school watercolor by Faber Castell and it worked, I really liked the result. A more viable and recommended option for children.
As you progress in the technique, you can invest in higher quality paints, such as the professional White Nights paints. It's important to remember that the quality of the paint is essential for the quality and fixation of the pigment in the final artwork.
3 - Brushes
Watercolor brushes are usually softer. They are made of natural or synthetic bristles and can vary in shape, size, and texture. Round brushes are more common and versatile for watercolor, allowing for both fine and broad strokes.
For beginners, it's recommended to use brushes from Faber Castel or Keramik's 311 series, in round shape, sizes 6 and 8. These are affordable options that offer good results. Additionally, these brands are known for their durability and quality, meaning the brushes should last a long time if well cared for.
Remember to research before purchasing materials, checking prices and brands available in the market. With these tips, we hope you feel more confident to embark on your watercolor journey! And if you want more tips and inspiration, follow the blog and my social media @brisaaquarelas.
