7 Things I WISH I Had Known BEFORE I started Watercolor Painting!

[@juiceytee]

Respect for sticking to your guns re sketchbooks, inside vs. outside etc. Helpful vid!

[@wallen308]

I love your sense of humour! I snorted my coffee when you said you were losing your will to live after drawing for hours. Nothing like a laugh to make something more enjoyable. Thank you Michele!

[@chelseamatthews3510]

I adore how clear and concise she speaks, 90% of the youtubers i watch stumble and say, "Umm..." and think out loud. And it's so annoying! Great to listen, too!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yay, thank you!

[@writeondesign]

Indeed!!! I took note and said to myself" oh yeah, she doesn't dilly dally‼️"

[@bobartex1812]

Very true

[@Shaze-haze]

i love how funny you are. i find myself pausing your videos to tell my wife about something funny you just said. great teaching style, keep up the great work!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I appreciate that!

[@freewoman4434]

" You can't copy another artist's style". I've been painting for a long time (I went to art college in the 90s) and I have to say I still get excited by the way other artists paint and I think "Oh, I'm going to try that". Without fail this culminates in a week of frustration until I go back to my own style, muttering about wasting time. I don't know why I keep doing it, although I do remember one of my art tutors saying to me in my first year "Find an artist you love and copy them!" Hmmm! These days I blame the internet (Pinterest, in my case) With that said, when you're starting out, it is really helpful to look at other artists, but you'll never know their techniques and secrets so your work will never be the same as theirs - but over the years artists develop their own style, and that's the most desirable thing!

[@deriale6015]

I had a writing instructor who has us start by immulating one of the prolific short story authors we were studying. None of us developed the style of those writers, but working in their style was something I found very informative. I wouldn't say trying to adapt to a certain style is a waste at all. If anything it sounds like you always try to go outside of your box and that's AMAZING! So many people do what they do and never want to do anything different. It's awesome that you're never settling with what you do.

[@karistone1297]

Donna, so much truth there! It's incredible...I started with a very basic gouache painting book and the images are incredibly simplistic. But no matter how I try, I CANNOT replicate the artist's style, even the way they paint simplistic flowers! I've now let it go, and as I develop more confidence I'm slowly finding my own style, so all Good! Guess we all need to believe in ourselves and our abilities more...

[@yvonnekremers4354]

This does sound like a good learning experience though!

[@rhondaporro7116]

Historically , hasn't been copying of Master Artists Works been used as a teaching and learning tool? I'm not sure though, which is why I'm asking? Maybe that just happens in the movies Lol..

[@rhondaporro7116]

Maybe, I am an unusual artist- because I am not sure I see the it necessary to "FIND YOUR STYLE" MY SUBJECT MATTER IS ALL OVER THE MAP- I JUST LOOK FOR WHAT I AM AM ATTRACTED- AND ATTEMP TO RENDER BY OBSERVATION_ IT USUALLY WORKS OUT RATHER WELL FOR ME. BUT, RIGHT NOW I AM USING JUST A FEW OF THE MEDIUMS AVAILABLE TO AN ARTIST ( WHICH IS VAST) I ENJOY ARTIST QUALITY COLORED PENCILS, ANY FORM OF WATERCOLOR PAINT, PENCILS , TUBES, STICKS,PANS AND AM EXPLORING ALL THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PASTEL MEDIUMS. I AM TOTALLY SELF TAUGHT NO FORMAL ART EDUCATION, YET. BUT, I AM LOOKING INTO TAKING SOME COLLEGE ART CLASSES. MAKING ART IS JUST SUCH A JOY FOR ME! I AM DISABLED AND SPEND MOST OF MY TIME IN BED. MY QUALITY OF LIFE IS SO MUCH RICHER DUE TO FINDING A PASSION FOR ART AND AN OUTLET FOR MY CREATIVITY- IT'S LIKE AIR- I NEED IT!

[@danhutchson896]

Michele you are the only thing I wish I had known before I started watercolor painting. Thanks for all of your good quality instructions.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Ah thanks so much Dan!

[@marcosdeoliveira6072]

Michelle, I'd like to thank you so much for all your videos❤. Some time ago I got into a school of Arts that killed my creativity- my drawings were never good, my paintings didn't represent anything and most of all, teachers didn't listen to me when I told them what I meant through the painting itself. Of course, if you go into an academy you are supposed to improve and find the mistakes you probably made, but the problem was that the teacher seemed to look down on me for asking too many questions and didn't seem to empathize. In a nutshell, after watching your videos, and how you explain so didatically everything made me realise that there are people who will get the message. And I am back to painting and drawing again thanks to your tips and tutorials ❤ I want to express all my gratitude because Painting and drawing have always been a very important aspect in my life and I had lost pleasure in doing it. But now I am pure ideas and creativity thanks to you ❤

[@joanwright8845]

very helpful to add drawing lines along the way and getting rid of some along the way

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@GiGiWinter]

Thank you, your comments regarding not needing to be any certain type of artist is quite freeing.

[@monahli1597]

Thank you SO much! Specially about painting outside and getting and staying up late! I needed to hear that we are who we are and as long as I’m not causing pain with how I like to live, it’s no one’s business but my own. That’s the upside of being a grownup. I like the way you teach and I’m so glad I found you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are very welcome!

[@susanburns276]

Me too 👍🇭🇲

[@kathytincler2446]

Finding your channel this afternoon was a God send....a happy accident? I am 73 and find it time to shift from crafting....some jewelry making and other fun crafting over the years, knit/crochet etc. and decided to learn to paint. I've bought watercolor paints, acrylics, watercolor crayons, watercolor pencils, a pad, some brushes and they are all in in box waiting for me to finish watching a million how to vids before I start (I'm nervous) but you are my stopping point for looking. I watched about 8 of yours today and will continue....you are smart and such a good speaker/explainer, teacher. I could never draw as a kid and what has kind of been holding me up is that sketching business. I have arthritic hands and although they do not shake my drawings are uneven and minute wiggley lines. After watching this vid I am so encouraged to be able to do me, what ever I can manage, no shame, no laws just freedom to play.....like a kid haha. Thank you so much for your insights and fresh takes Tfs and con't to stay safe!.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much Kathy, one of my students has very arthritic hands and she still finds a way to make lovely things. ☺️

[@kathytincler2446]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Thank you.

[@stormy439]

This video was priceless to me! 😃 I am a photographer, but a beginner watercolor painter. I showed a friend some of my paintings and regretted it instantly. "Oh my! You could be in a gallery!" she said. I immediately said no, that's not my thing because I just paint for enjoyment. For months I didn't hear the end of it! I was simply painting from tutorials. (I follow instructions WELL after 22 years in the Army.) I haven't even figured out my OWN style yet! You covered all my concerns in this one video! Thankyou!😃👍

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it helped!

[@tonybmore4929]

Me too!

[@MrDs131]

I wish I had known I needed less paint colours and less brushes but how important good paper is. Great video.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for watching!

[@abassage655]

Thank you Michelle! I am restarting drawing and watercolors after 40 or 50 years of doing nothing. I very much appreciate your easy gentle style of teaching. I will be a regular!

[@paivi800]

These are all great tips! Thank you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you like them!

[@barbara6204]

Thank you, you lifted some of my frustration

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad to hear it

[@hellodenise9612]

So glad you spoke about drawing being boring or not your favorite thing to do! Non artist don't understand that. I like your take on this.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much!

[@karistone1297]

Yes, I can relate to that...I always want to get to the good bit...the paint!

[@paintboxplayer8810]

OMG, this video is so incredibly wonderful & freeing! Thank you so much Michelle. No requirements to do a daily sketchbook, ok to use photographs as reference, ok to paint just indoors (it’s blazing hot here in Australia!), ok to do illustrations rather than full landscapes or portraits. It’s ok if I express myself doing just little bookmarks for Pete’s sake if I want to. I also especially appreciated your comments about “loose” painting. We see it just everywhere there is visual art & surface design including on cushions! It’s expressive & so many of us want to use art as a means of expression so we gravitate to it. But as you so wisely point out, our natures might really feel better & more authentic doing precise painting. Your comments about this applying to yourself really really rang true for myself! Lastly, our styles will find us on our journey. Cheers!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So glad you liked the video, thank you for watching!

[@sherrylee6719]

You made my day. Thank you for taking the guilt away and suggesting to just enjoy the process. I love your personality and humor.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much!

[@MarilynParker5865]

Wonderful......a way to accept ourselves ad our individuality.

[@ginettemelody1035]

Big thanks. I can relate to you in many ways! Blessings

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Same to you!

[@GrimdarkKing]

I've been watching your videos for a few months now and love them. I glean what bits of information I can. But in truth, you voice - the pace and tone - is very calming. That's half of the reason why I watch the videos. Life is stressful but when your video shows up on my home page I know that if I click the link and play it in the background of what I'm doing...by the end of the video I won't feel anxious anymore.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Brian, that's wonderful!

[@phylliswilliamstn]

I love your no-pressure approach to art. This was a wonderful video and helped me feel better about trying to discover my own art style.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

That's great, thank for watching ☺️

[@mycupoftea12]

I wish I had seen your advice much earlier. I am new to painting and tried acrylics. In each painting, I would state - look I got the trees correct but the bridge is horrible, or look I got the sky perfect, but the waves are too close to shore. So you are correct...start out slowly and don't try painting a full picture at the beginning of the learning process. I am taking many steps backward and starting with your advice. I will learn to master one thing at a time. The color chart makes so much sense and I will step back and do so. Thank you!

[@marilyntooke9015]

I’m a complete newbie and am doing your basic watercolour course and am LOVING it!! But watching this video has answered so many of my doubts and fears and has set me free simply to go on loving what I’m doing through your course. Thanks for being such an encourager and so real. I may even have the courage to share my efforts with the group - thanks Michele!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Marilyn, of course you should post your work!

[@itney2756]

every minute i spent watching this video was worth it. i got so much more out of this than from watching live demos. thanks so much for sharing. subscribed!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much!

[@gerriebell2128]

I just discovered you last week and this is one of your older videos. Really good info. What you said about learning to mix colours and how brushes and the paint behave is so true. When I first started to paint I took a beginner course on a site called Craftsy and the first thing we did was study colour theory and learned to mix colours from a limited palette of the 3 warm and 3 cool primaries. And we made charts. That helped me so much in everything I have done since. The things you said about style is so true. Just like we recognize the unique handwriting we each have, each person has a unique style of drawing and painting. I’ve painted along with artists’ videos not trying to copy their style, but trying to learn various brush strokes, use of colour, composition, etc. Along the way, after painting for a few years I’m seeing my style just starting to come out. And just like with writing, I’m coming to the conclusion that “style” comes from how we are coordinated, as in “eye-hand coordination”, how we perceive things, as well as personality. And part of my journey has included “self-acceptance.” There artists whose art and style I love. At best I can copy their subject matter choices. Although I can paint “American folk art” things or flowers or landscapes or more impressionistic or more detailed, it’s all going to be MY version of it, not just like someone else’s. I think trying out various styles is good, IF the purpose is trying out a variety of things like a “survey”, to see what you are good at or what you like a lot or detest. Just like we copied the teacher’s writing when we were learning to write, we learned how to make the letter shapes but still ended up with unique-to-us handwriting, the same process can help in painting, if the expectation is to use the copying as a means to find out how we draw or paint things. And it’s so much better to accept how you paint and stop wishing to be like someone else. I’ve come to this through several years on a journey, from a mindset of believing the lie that I can’t draw or do art.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Well it's wonderful that you are finding your own way now!

[@pragya360]

Your video made my day on exceptionally bad day when nothing is going right. I shall continue to endure and persevere thanks to your encouraging words.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I hope today is better. Absolutely, no giving up!

[@ackytrax7552]

Excellent advice Michele. I especially appreciated that photos are your sketchbook and that you prefer painting indoors. That certainly resonated with me :) Makes perfect sense!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are most welcome!

[@cheriekalel9578]

All of these apply to living life in general. I especially love the part about not paying attention to stereotypes, just finding what works best for oneself. We are all individuals. Yes, learning is important, but finding one's unique "voice" and expressing it, is the main point. Thank you for this!

[@susanburns276]

How right you are 👍 I didn't even realise the extention art takes me in life situations 😲 I seem to take time looking at thing's more visually and see so much more!

[@juded2997]

I am the perpetual beginner which is driving me insane. The more I read and watch watercolour for beginners, I seem to understand less and less ???? However, you are a breath of fresh air for me, so as of today, I shall start my watercolour painting with a new free attitude. Thank you 🦋

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You can do it!

[@kingfisherdesignsmetals]

I just started with watercolor 3 months ago and have learned more in a week of watching you in a week than I have learned before. Thank you.

[@veroniquequesnel76]

Oh, no gin in your morning tea?!!! 😃😉 You made me laugh, thank you also for that!!! I started watercolor one year ago. I am 61. I used to draw a lot during chidhood and youth until I was 20... and gave up for 40 years for several (bad) reasons! I don't know what is my style. Not yet! I try different things, and follow a few artists on KZbin and I get a lot of tips and techniques, but above all it makes me HAPPY!!! And it is a passion and an obsession ! It helps me also a lot during this terrible covid period. It is like a kind of meditation. When family and friends tell me they like my paintings or sketches, I appreciate of course, but I think: what am I going to do next ?! Thanks to your advice, I will manage drawing differently now, you are right, I will cut it in peaces and it will be easier. Have a good day, best wishes from Lomé, Togo!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I like a Jasmine green tea in the mornings, I am pretty boring like that. I gave up art for a while too, the key was stopping listening to advice!

[@devonbrennan6125]

Haha, love what you said about preferring to be indoors! Having all your brushes, paints, temperature control, no bugs, water, right there. I'm painting inside with you! Thanks for sharing all the good information, you're teaching is so appreciated. Watching from Florida.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Hi in Florida! You are very welcome :-)

[@susanbeckett9347]

Fantastic advice. My new watercolors arrive today and with a sigh of relief, the pressure is off.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Have fun!

[@Maxitone15]

Thank you so much for this very infromative video. I have been painting for 6 months and your videos are always great.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad to help

[@ewacollier4760]

Following your heart ❤️, I need to reminded of this on a regular basis. I also need to reconcile myself that I need to find my own style and not try to emulate another artist’s style. I think I’ll find that very hard. Thank you for a very encouraging video

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

The trick is to forget about finding a style. One day, out of the blue it will find you.

[@wolfpackred3034]

Love the point about not feeling pressure to sketch every day or keep a sketch book. That's analogous to not all writers feel pressure to journal every day/keep a journal. Focus on the craft/creating in the moment.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Oh I had no idea about the writing thing! Makes sense I guess. I have written all sorts of things, including for magazines. Didn't know you were supposed to practice lol

[@jimorlowski5051]

Helpful and inspirational. As an amature photographer, I love the way your photography has improved and is informed by your painting. One of the reasons I drawing and watercolor is to inform my photography. And my oh my, it is a big help to understand colour and composition, and in general, helped me understand why I take photos, and why I choose to draw or paint instead. These talks are a great help - thank you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you liked it Jim!

[@susanhepburn6040]

Thank you very much, Michele. Greatly appreciated.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Any time!

[@Cheeseygirl26]

I am so glad I found you when I did. I have been nibbling around the edges of drawing, painting, crafting for many years. I love to draw and paint and actually have developed some muscle memory over the years, but didn't know exactly what it was until you! I feel that experimenting with a variety of mediums and styles with an open heart, without judgement, hones skills you may not even realize you need to know! Thank you, as always 💜

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are most welcome!

[@tbm7187]

Such great information! I needed the pep talk also! Thank you!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad it was helpful!

[@susieunderwood4645]

Wonderful video, Michele - thank you for the great advice.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem Susie ☺️

[@lyndav458]

Thank you for this, especially the point about finding your own style rather than trying to copy someone else’s style. I love florals - loose, botanical, all of it - and I’ve been so frustrated that, no matter how much I try, my florals rarely turn out. Some are better than others, but they just never look right to me. So, I started thinking about what paintings did turn out the way I wanted them to, which of them, when I finished them, made me happy and excited and proud. And I realized it was fruit in a fairly realistic style. Apples, pears, peaches. And a lightbulb went off in my head. I’m not sure what it is about fruit - maybe the strong geometric shapes, maybe the consistency of color but with levels of shading, maybe the subject matter as that I am an avid cook and food lover. Whatever it is, it looks like maybe I’ve found my style. Today I’m going to work on a piece of bell peppers (capsicum) and find out if my love of painting fruit also includes painting vegetables.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I love peppers. I am vegan so the more veg the better in my opinion. I love to cook too. Curries mainly at the moment! Good luck with your paintings :-)

[@vanessamay3689]

I would love to do flowers and I love daisies but they don’t always look great but maybe a work in progress. I love doing leaves and they do come in many varieties of colour and species. Have enjoyed this video and newly subscribed.

[@fanatlarge]

Thank you, that were some useful ways to look at painting. I have painted for decades, on and off, and probably never made a 'complete' painting, and always felt bad about it, without realizing it until now. But I love sketches! Maybe for me, it's the journey, not the destination.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@yvonnecrowhurst8365]

So glad you spoke about your lack of use of sketchbooks because I too thought I was odd for not doing sketches! Also I too find en plein air very uncomfortable and prefer to be indoors. Love your advice and guidance. Thank you so much 👍👏😀

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yay, thank you!

[@rebecca5279]

WOW. That's so freeing to realize that yeah, I don't have to have every single detail completely done before I even go in with the brush, pen or marker...but I make all these OCD rules for myself that only leaves me rigid, frustrated and not any bit of progress made! I've lately made it an "art" within my art of taking all the fun & wonder out of it quicker than you can say STOP! Came across your videos by chance and it was bit of a cathartic moment for me in how to rescue myself from myself because i' ve just let myself wallow in dead-end drawing- drowning in tiny details!

[@conniewilliams2256]

I'm so thankful that I stumbled upon your videos. You're a wonderful instructor. I'm going from acrylics to watercolors and boy, what a whole new world!! Your videos are so helpful. I bought a set of 36 SCHMINCKE'S and they're wonderful. I originally bought a set of 36 Mijello from Korea; and to anyone reading this, I wouldn't recommend them. They have a grey chalky residue. I used a clear antique deviled egg service dish to mix my colors--which BTW didn't mix together very well-- when the paint settled, you could see a chalk like substance, in the little egg cups. I sent them back, and told them watercolors are supposed to be clear, not chalky. Happy painting!!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Chalky paint is usually a sign of a lot of fillers and opacity. Thanks for watching!

[@jilb1500]

Not only helpful, YOU SAVED my brain from destroying my desire to enjoy myself through art! You are a compassionate, intelligent genius. I will save this email and re-watch when feeling discouraged. Bad habit of compassions of art, although in reality I DO believe that we are individuals and will end up creating how OUR style is. Thank you a million times just for stating the obvious, logical thinking pattern of so many of us. You are really helping me in so many ways. Freedom to create in whatever technique I feel like, with or w/o drawing first (I find that the boring part) and just "going with the flow" of natural creativity, my own. You are helping me relax, enjoy, have fun and create. Wish I found your videos months ago when I started just playing around with old watercolors and acrylics.

[@petergamble6318]

Yes Michele, very well said. Everybody has a voice and the goal is to explore and nurture that voice. We may not sound like Adele or the Beatles from the get-go but they do inspire us to get better. Nobody's dream is to be a cover band but if it helps us to progress then I say rock on!

[@977400Dana]

Love your videos! And so wonderful to know you don’t like sketch books or plein air painting. I will stop beating myself up because I don’t like sketching and draw only because I can’t paint without a drawing. I also much prefer to paint in my studio. And love the suggestion of drawing in stages as I go along. Thank you so much!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Dana, you are very welcome!

[@stuartcooke2108]

Love your remarks about not having guilt about any non artist habits. Having sketched with pencil and pen for the best part of eighty years, I've never felt the need to keep or make a collection of anything. The pleasure was and still is in the doing, and having spent a happy hour or two, the joy of discarding my efforts into the trash or if safely in my croft, it's peat fire, is to complete the pleasure with it's duel protection from vanity or disappointment. Plus the chance that when I next pick up pencil or pen it will be as exciting as the first time I did so as a wee lad.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful attitude :-)

[@cherryj]

Thank you for this video. I only started my art journey 2 years ago for my own pleasure in retirement. I am absolutely hooked now! I love the way you say we can do what we want and not what everyone says we should be doing.

[@ChristinaTodd1970]

The “do your drawing in stages” is brilliant! Why did that never occur to me? I’ve gotten lost so many times.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You don't know what you don't know ☺️ Glad it helped!

[@ChristinaTodd1970]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber It's fabulous advise!

[@felixraphaelgilfedder7007]

Very helpful,thank you.

[@krisyoungsteadt9139]

Sometimes just taking a break helps you finish a painting. I have good drawing skills but I don't draw my paintings at this point, I just paint them. There's always problem solving involved. It's part of life. :)

[@ASTROYTGT]

Me too! I'm just starting and totally confused about the drawing part.

[@dowydarwim8945]

So practical, refreshing, uplifting and releasing. Thank you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're so welcome!

[@kathleenlussier4196]

Your words are what I was looking for. Well said :)

[@louisepage3842]

Great points. Thank you.

[@rachelconnor2327]

Thanks so much, Michele, this is very useful. Your comments on the stereotypes really resonate with me! I’m very private about art so I prefer to paint and draw at home, but I love all the paraphernalia of plein air artists, the notebooks, the beautiful little portable palettes and brushes, the collapsible water cups. Maybe I should do the equivalent of an indoor picnic sometime! I’m just starting out, and I’m finding a combination of playing with materials and singling out aspects of techniques to practise in small studies is very helpful. I’ve chosen part of a botanical photo that lends itself to lots of interesting practice and that I also find very pretty, so I’m always looking at, drawing, and working out how to paint one of my favourite subjects. I also find just painting squares and rectangles is really handy: no pressure to paint anything realistic, just seeing how different paints work in flat and graduated washes, and also feeling what the paint is like at different consistencies.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

An indoor picnic sounds delightful!

[@marcwheeler4406]

I concur with with..I also love the thumbnail palettes and easels and omgoddess the different paints out in the market😃🎨...I'm glad im.not a millionaire I'd have to many items I'd would be a watercolor supply hoarder..mikelle newyork mom learning new skill 👩‍🎨🎨😷👋

[@kathiecranston1577]

As much as I like painting out on my porch & yard, I keep wondering why I can't get myself to paint sitting on the couch (with all this 'cold,' even in my "studio"). I'm afraid it's probably because of the winter clutter that's developed here already. LOL Driving me nuts as it is! I can sit here & watch art videos now & be warm though 😉

[@itsalgud1459]

Michele thank you thank you! This is one of the best videos I’ve found. Almost every point you made describes me. The few that don’t will probably keep me from making that particular mistake later. Great video! I’m subscribing.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much!

[@pennybordelon707]

Thank you so very much for your comments as well as your wonderful sharing of your technique. Thank you thank you thank you for being you allowing me to be me!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

It's my pleasure

[@lindathaxton1994]

Love ur teaching style! Started painting at age 76 - now 78. Have learned most of what skills I have from U Tube & and am soooo grateful for you who spend you time, skills & energy to teach us out here.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@johnchapin7707]

Wow! My first MW video... I just love the rapid-fire editing -- hats off to the editor, MW or whoever! Oh, and the content is just spectacular. The highest compliment I can give is: simple and effective! Thank you so much.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I edit my own videos John, I am told I talk too fast, I try not to but I'm a bit hyperactive!

[@johnchapin7707]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber Don't change a thing! (and you even TYPE fast...!)

[@aliciashackley5830]

Super helpful Michele. Thx as always.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks Alicia!

[@lisalowe2355]

Thankyou very much, love your style of teaching and there is no ' waffling' like some videos.Straight to the point.Thankyou Michele.xx

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're very welcome!

[@palominox64]

What a beautiful video! If there were ONE thing I'd like to keep in my heart, it's your section on disregarding the stereotypes of what you 'have to be like' or 'what you have to do' to be an artist- and as you listed them, after each you said "Don't worry about that". Thank you! :)

[@CarolinaCanada]

Such a super useful video. Haven’t come across such tips elsewhere. Thank you for the honesty.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No worries!

[@maureenrich2805]

Very liberating indeed! I wish I had seen this 8 years ago but I might not have been able to believe it or do it. It's taken me all this time to see that exactly what you are saying has been true in my work and attitude. I'm going to make some changes.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Wonderful!

[@writeondesign]

Wow. I bumped into your channel and I love how you teach. I've only watched a few vids. I'm a Calligrapher and would like to incorporate little bits of color on a border,ivy, etc.... I think I have a leg up on the part where you said using just pencils for large painting doesn't yield same result. Luckily for me it's just the tiny color since the main star is the Calligraphy❣️Thanks a bunch.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

No problem at all, and thanks so much :-) Yes pencils will be especially good for you. I'm planning on doing an Inktense video in the next few weeks, they would be perfect for Calligraphy!

[@writeondesign]

@@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber I subscribed‼️ Woohoo. Thank you again🥰

[@ellenkropp-rogers4808]

Loved your comments on artist stereotypes - very funny & true! Thanks for your support!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Glad you liked it 🙂

[@mieczyslawapascoe7234]

Thank you, Michelle, I found your message encouraging. From my own experience, trying to be what others think you 'should' be is the most paralysing thing.

[@eleanorbenner1885]

Love all your tips and techniques; will pick up my brushes again.

[@LindaDaly-c4f]

This was very helpful to me. I love your videos. I am a water color teacher at a very busy senior center and work with older people trying water color for the first time after years of not having time for something they were interested in.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are very welcome. I have taught seniors in residential homes in the past too!

[@Deedster56]

This was my first time watching one of your videos and I am already totally impressed! I am a beginner and although I have accumulated a wonderful arsenal of paints and brushes, I have yet to produce anything but my swatches. I am subscribing for sure!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much!

[@sherylpiche9878]

Thank you for clearing up misconception that I need to be working in a Sketchbook everyday. I agree with you, teaching others helps me keep my skills and watching others helps me learn to do many things better. Thank you you do!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are so welcome!

[@corneliabeil-hernandez9469]

Thank you for your great advice. It seems to be so hard to learn how to paint just by watching videos but I love your advices. They help even when you are an absolute beginner. Looking forward to more videos from you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are so welcome!

[@barbararosen1641]

Thank you. And I love that you have a great sense of humor. Helps me.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I'm so glad!

[@deedunn9811]

What a breath of fresh air you are, Michele! I laughed aloud at your comments on trying to copy style. I was so frustrated when I first started painting because what I saw in my mind's eye and what came out on the paper could not have been more different. It was a long while before I started enjoying that shift from idea to creation and now I find myself curious and amused as to what comes out of my brush. Rather like channeling some artistic spirit from the beyond, lol. Sometimes I wonder if art may be far more the inner process than the outer expression. i am still sparring with the Imposter and your words on that were helpful and thought provoking. Thank you!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So glad you found the video helpful :-)

[@50andCountingcom]

I like painting indoors, partial drawings, using photographs as my sketchbook, and my workspace neat. What a freeing video! I have watched many watercolor artists with instructional videos and this is my first time watching one from you. You became one of my favorites immediately!

[@debraowen2616]

I love your "how to be a 'real' artist" attitude! Thank you for sharing that. That's taken a HUGE load off my shoulders, and I can NOW be free to enjoy MY art.

[@joys4524]

When I started painting, I too wanted to paint loosely. It wasn't until I stopped and painted my way that I became happy with most of my work. It is like your signature, everyone is different. I wish I had known that when I started pInt8ng 5 1/2 years ago.

[@sandraocallaghan8616]

Good sensible advice. Thanks.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're welcome!

[@loribaca9065]

I mostly love playing with color, watching watercolors mix and blend. I wouldn't mind getting to the point where I can share my paintings as cards or bookmarks. I've just started painting, thank you covid lockdown. I've learned a lot from you. Thank you.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are very welcome Lori!

[@ldrake3155]

I’ve never had the means to go into painting plus I just knew I was terrible with drawing and have absolute no sense of color or composition, but the thing I understood from what you said ( some I didn’t) is start small, I don’t have to do it in what I “think” is proper procedure or steps like I thought I should try to practice doing a sketchbook but I just couldn’t imagine enjoy doing that. Don’t try to create a whole piece of something, just practice what takes my fancy so if I like to practice making a leaf look right then I should do that and not worry about the whole bouquet. There’s more to what you said, but already some of the anxiety has lifted and I’m now more eager to get started and get the supplies and stuff. Thank you for taking time out to share your experience with us!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I am so pleased for you. One step at a time :-)

[@caroles5258]

Thank you for explaining that I can be however I wish to be in expressing my artistic whims. I've just started with the drawing and watercolour painting and I really appreciate all your videos.

[@annettefournier9655]

When I first wanted to learn to paint I was watching videos and became friends with a lovely human being who encouraged me . Albeit he suggested oils might be my medium because it came much easier to me. I'm stubborn and wanted to do watercolor. I would tell him my dream was to someday do Dave Usher skies. He told me; " you will do better than that. You will do Annette Fournier skies and whenever someone sees your work they will think oh that's a sky by Annette!" Such a kind encouragement. And true. Your style chooses you, not the other way around. Thanks Michele. 💜

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Lovely story, you are very welcome Annette!

[@marcwheeler4406]

I'm also so very glad I found this channel a year ago.. Michele has given me mental health lifeline, a laugh lifeline and a skill you can do this dont get discouraged lifeline...I thought due to my physical limitations at times I wouldnt be able to paint much but she suggested a small bucket next to desk to dump your dirty water jar into so I didnt have to keep getting up to change out waterjar and different ways to use a toothbrush with a knife etc for splatters and other small things that help when I just want to paint a bit and cant on those bad days.. I'm externally grateful that she thinks of these issues and has solutions and also ideas for people on limited budgets ..Its very kind.. at many times I always smile and feel encouraged after her videos, and to know I'll never probably ever physically be able to take a in person class from her but I can still receive her knowledge from her sharing her skills with me over time with these videos keeps me moving thru my day and I keep her videos as a postive goal if I accomplish this today I can reward myself with two extra tutorials classes(videos.lol).... mikelle newyork mom learning new skills during this challenging time 👩‍🎨🎨😷👋

[@junepatterson7928]

Thank you so much. This is exactly how I feel. Being an artist or a crafter is more personal perspective than academic definition. So there.

[@crystal338]

Nice video! I am a pretty seasoned artist with still a lot to learn. I had to laugh in your - can’t copy another artists style - section. Your OCD comment made me realize I’m the opposite, I am a mess. But I admire the most realistic, detailed paintings because I can’t do them. I would go crazy. I am a mess, my painting is messy but good. And different shaped jars make me happy. The same shape of every jar would bore me:) thanks

[@tonybmore4929]

Bravo 👏. I'm continually impressed everytime I watch your videos... I learn so much and unlearn traditional artists propaganda simultaneously. It's really baffling to me that I've been watching so many other KZbin art videos, and learn more on two weeks than i have in 11months since starting. MOST don't come nearly close to your teachings of the basic and savvy logic . I will be menbering your patreon soon. Being a videographer & photographer my budget has tightened a bit due to the pandemic; business has really slowed as I have worked for myself for the last six yrs. I've always loved watercolour and drawing, and would love to become a professional at both... so glad I finally began last year. Your efforts and manner of teaching will surely be recognized by peers I believe. Thank goodness you persisted thru thru the naysayers and adversities to do what you love. I truly understand the adversities having walked similar paths here across the pond. Thank you again.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks for your kind words, yes my business came to a grinding halt at the start of the pandemic when teaching venues closed, of course is how I ended up here on KZbin!

[@kjmav10135]

One tip before starting a whole painting-do a few small, quick thumbnails to figure out where to place things before beginning on the watercolor paper. I also do more than one thumbnail, just in case a better composition pops up on the fourth or fifth try. It usually does!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Yes indeed!

[@krisyoungsteadt9139]

Great advice, Kathryn.

[@valasafantastic1055]

Sketchbooks are perfect for this!

[@avibongo]

I'm learning or relearning watercolor and your videos are exceptional as well as your style of communicating.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you so much 😀

[@gardengal9478]

Excellent content, Michele. I’m with you about the sketch books and detailed drawing. I just want to paint. Sometimes it leads me to not plan. It’s a balancing act. Appreciate the reminders. This video will help many.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thank you!

[@EsseJD]

Oh my gosh, i do like you👍 thanks so very much 🌸

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So nice of you

[@jeanneberinato7211]

Thanks so much Michele! I am a true beginner in art. I have been looking for tutorials to help me get started … I love your style and will be following you daily! I have a bunch of videos to catch up on and look forward to your guidance on my journey. Time to start at the beginning …

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are so welcome, good luck with your painting journey!

[@monopinion8799]

You are so right and reassuring Michelle. I have this painting that is half drawn, my basic background wash done and a few of the same flowers halfway painter. I always painted that way. It suit me and I create by drawing my flowers of choices in my visual composition that I have in mind. Great tutorial. Thank you for your guidance!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You are so welcome!

[@juliec.]

Omg this is so full of valuable information and I appreciate the bits of humour 😂. I am so very much enjoying your videos. Thank you 🙏 from 🇨🇦. ❤️

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

I'm so glad!

[@unknown_feature]

This was enlightening. I was doing everything wrong:) I can’t stop watching your channel now. You are the best!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Thanks so much Anna!

[@LCLand]

So true about loose painting. But it’s good to try! I’ve tried many watercolorists methods and can’t really mimic it but because of that practice I’ve finally found my own way

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

So true!

[@skywatcher5725]

I enjoyed your presentation, Michele. I look forward to painting but am concentrating on drawing first. I have to do things in an orderly fashion.

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Good idea!

[@skywatcher5725]

I am having an awful time drawing my cone-shaped flowerpot. I will review your video on that. I found something in my art box called A Wonderful Perspective Machine. It is helpful but I wish to have one of a larger size. I am determined to master the basics. @@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber

[@classical3185]

This video is extremely helpful! I’ve wanted to watercolor paint for so many years. I’ve been drawing digitally since I was 14, but always wanted to do more traditional artwork. I bought some watercolors, paper, and brushes last weekend and I’ve been soaking up all the info I can on KZbin. Thank you!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

You're so welcome! Best of luck, it's a great journey!

[@megperry5586]

I have been disillusioned of many faulty ideas and I thank you truely. Love your videos!

[@IntheStudiowithMicheleWebber]

Happy to help!

[@cathyb52480]

Thank you so much! I am a real beginner (4 months in) and find your advice and tutorials very helpful.