STEPS NED USES TO CREATE A WATERCOLOR PAINTING

1. Select a subject that interests you and has the characteristics for a well designed painting.
2. Do a small sketch including color references. Also take photograph references when possible.
3. Using pencil and paper draw small thumbnail sketches (2 inches by 3 inches in dimension) to work out the design (relationship of shapes) and values (lights and darks).
4. Prepare your watercolor paper by soaking it in water and attaching it to a board using staples or tape. FIne watercolor paper is made from 100% cotton. Stretching and mounting the paper keeps the paper from buckling which can cause puddles of watercolor and other undesirable effects in the painting.
5. Lightly draw your final design onto the prepared watercolor paper.
6. I recommend using only the finest watercolor paints like Winsor and Newton and finest watercolor paper like Arches.
7. Begin by painting your lightest values and softest colors. Don't forget to save white areas where you want some additional contrast. NOTE: No white paint is used in watercolor painting.
8. Continue working from light to dark layering colors.
9. Don't be afraid to step away form the paininting for a couple of days and then finish it off with a "fresh" eye.
10. Watercolor painting takes patience and persistence to master. I recommend taking classes, studying books, and practice all you can. I enjoy learning new techniques all the time.

WATERCOLOR BOOKS RECOMMENDED BY NED

• "Watercolor - You Can Do It" by Tony Couch, published by North Light Books. Great book that covers all the basics of watercolor painting.
• "How to Make Watercolor Work for You" by Frank Nofer, published by North Light Books. Very good book that shows another artists complete approach to watercolor painting.
• "Making Color Sing" by Jeanne Dobie, published by Watson Guptill. A great book on using color in watercolor painting.
• "Painting Beautiful Watercolors from Photographs" by Jan Kunz, published by North Light Books. Good book for those who are pressed for time and have to paint in their studio using photographs.
• "Fill You Watercolors with Light and Color" by Roland Roycraft, published by North Light Books. Very interesting painting and pouring techniques that will loosen up your painting style.
• "How to Make a Watercolor Paint Itself" by Nita Engle, published by Watson Guptill. A master painter teaches you how to go with the flow and stay loose with your painting.