This section of my site is intended to be a useful resource for anyone who wants to learn more about watercoloring! If you want to share this or other links with your friends I would appreciate you using the hashtags #paintwithnatalie and #nataliebooneart when posting on social media. Thank you so much, and happy painting!

Color Theory

Color theory can open the door to endless possibilities. You can create a rainbow of colors with only a few tubes of paint!

Colors are called hues. Black is added to darken and is called a shade. White is added to lighten and is called a tint. Always work from light to dark in watercolor.

There are three primary colors: red, blue, and yellow.

There are three secondary colors: green, violet, and orange. They are made by combining the primary colors.

Tertiary colors are made by combining secondary colors with primary colors. They are red-orange, yellow-orange, yellow-green, blue-green, blue-violet, and red-violet.

Colors across from each other on the wheel are called complementary and are pleasing to the eye.

Professional tools are always better, but student grade is okay for practicing and learning

Watercolor paints come in student grade or professional grade. Student grade paint is called cotman paint and is great when you are first starting out. I use exclusively Daniel Smith professional watercolor paints.

Paper is the most important supply. 100% cotton paper is best. Paper comes in different textures: cold pressed (textured), rough (very textured), or hot pressed (smooth). It should be at least 140lb+ in weight.

Brushes can last for years with proper care. I use only synthetic brushes, but you can find real hair/fur brushes out there. Always rinse your brush thoroughly after use and lay flat to dry.

When you want to add ink or black lines to your work, make sure the ink is waterproof.

Other supplies: a jar + water, paper towels, salt, alcohol, eraser