Basic Watercolor Techniques 3 - Wet in Wet Washes

In this basic wash control episode we'll take a look at wet in wet washes, how simple they are and how fun it can be to let watercolor do some of the work.
Others in this series
Basic Wash Control Part 1 - Flat Washes
• Basic Watercolor Techn...
Basic Wash Control Part 2 - Graduated Washes
• Basic Watercolor Techn...
Products used
Master's Touch #14 round from Hobby Lobby
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[@fourroadsnorth2723]

I have found these techniques incredibly helpful as I was not making progress. Realized it was time to go to the basics and focus. The author does not over-explain, but points out important details and illustrates well. Thanks so much! I will continue to view!

[@kenleyojones]

I dont understand why there is any thumbs downs? This guy is freely giving out loads of good information. Thanks MOW for your videos!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thank you!

[@crosswind76]

maybe they dont want info given out for free, after they spent thousands for Design & Art school? Lol. who knows. Sometimes I think FB automatically labels some Videos with thumbs down, for competition? who knows. Maybe just Trolls!

[@zoweegeewhiz]

Who would give a thumbs down....trolls abound!

[@jlroussin]

Trolls who don't have a life, so they have to give thumbs down to great videos.

[@mebendickson]

Some people think their opinion is more important than it really is. It doesn’t matter anyway, because KZbin counts both a thumbs up and a thumbs down in the same manner, as a public response. 😏

[@rachelstewart1809]

In December I decided to start playing with watercolor. It's super fun, but unlearning 50 years of oil, acrylic, and pencil is a challenge. Your videos are absolutely the best regarding how to work with this medium!!! Blotting water from the ferrule end (another vid of yours) was better than sliced bread. Thank you so much💦💙🙏🖌️

[@lorrieg4498]

I never cease to be amazed. I have been struggling away with watercolor without the basic know-how explained by Steve in this video and others. It is like wow is that how you do it, and that apples to his entire series on basics for washes, brush strokes, paper, etc. Lots of other videos available on watercolor painting, but The Mind of Watercolor by Steve is the best, by far. There is so much to learn. It is one thing to be an artist, but to be able to teach is yet another gift.

[@filmsnotdead]

After teaching in public schools and colleges for 62 years, i now have time to try to learn new skills. I have attempted watercolor inthe past, but now I have found an excellent teacher. Thank you for this well designed and presented series. Jim

[@user-jz4ff4en4y]

You are without a doubt the best water-colour related channel I've ever found. Kudos!

[@mindofwatercolor]

+Ｓ／／＼＼ＳＨ why thank you very much!

[@jenniefrench1338]

I love the clouds that use a thirsty brush to pull the whispy grays in different directions. I suppose it is a wet technique but really helps to show how the brush can pull those shapes and it looks so beautiful. I don’t think I ever get tired of looking at the sky.

[@elliebenton4770]

I am 72 and finally have the time to learn to watercolor. This artist is terrific.

[@TheAgelessdiva]

I’m so happy to have found your videos! I used to draw in high school back in the 80’s and every so often I did fairly well with a piece and I would take it to my farther for approval and he would tell me he liked it but would also tell me to stop putting my energy into it because you can’t make a living doing it. I finally stopped and didn’t draw till this year. That’s over 30 years of experience I allowed to go by without enjoying. I came across a few videos that made my inner artist sing and you are one of them. I now dream in watercolors. I love how you teach, you are calming and explain the technique in a simple manner. Thank you 🙏

[@karenturner-cf7vq]

I have watched all three demonstrations, I think you can always learn with watercolour, and gain inspiration, Thankyou

[@phyllisbrochu7867]

I've been watching watercolor tutorials for about 3 months. I agree with the previous comments...your instructions and commentaries are the best! Thank you for sharing . I have lots more of yours to watch!!

[@jillross9383]

It is now starting to make sense thanks to you Steve. The best watercolour tutorial ever.

[@deborahgiuffre5494]

I’m definitely going to practice your wash exercises. They are the cornerstone to achieve everything else that follows.

[@rainbowfox1934]

Those techniques can be used for so many things.

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

You’re kidding me 😮🤯! Wow!!! The technique of getting the paint to move on a dried shape. I have to give it a try. Great examples! Thanks for giving me the boldness to keep on going.

[@Frieda_Kamstra]

Im an absolute beginner in watercolor and was struggling with the washing. After looking at your videos it finally goes the right way! Thank you soo much! 👍🏼

[@KarunGajria]

Learning these techniques is so much fun and fulfilling. You are a master magician imparting some magic to everyone around. Cheers!

[@deso5626]

This guy knows his rules. Learning lots !

[@philwattis6748]

I have tried and tried over the last 6 weeks without success, after watching you on KZbin, and persevering it is starting to make sense I am still practising the basics and with the inspiration and fun you make these steps I feel I'm on my way. I must add I'm 64 years, and from the UK thanks Steve keep up the great work, and happy painting Phil

[@mindofwatercolor]

Phil Wattis Thanks Phil. Happy painting to you!

[@michellesmith2420]

I've learned so much from you in the last few nights of no sleep cause I can't get enough . I went and finally bought paints and paper . I'm committing to this . Poor Reese has been kicked to the curb today 😜 🌞 Thankyou so much for being crystal clear in every way .

[@katepanthera7265]

Terrific video! That 'tip' about wetting a larger area than you intend to paint, so not to get hard edges - genius! Wish I'd figured that out a lot sooner - but hey, better late than never. At 5:11, that looks like trees (darker) with a snow (lighter) blanket around it. The 'haystack' - it's a group of rocks, silly! Very 'impressionist"! Very nice tree at the end, too!

[@yeahgirl11]

Haha glad someone else caught those too lol

[@happymv5350]

Oh my goodness....this is the stuff that makes watercolor so appealing to me. The possibilities are endless! "Dig" watching the paint respond to water and whatever ever else it comes in contact with. Love it.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Marjolein Vanderhoeven Couldn't agree more! :-)

[@BornAgainFarmGirl]

I already found a mistake I’ve been doing in lesson 2, very helpful Steve . Never think your done learning 👍🏽 folks .

[@jia01510]

This is so helpful! Thank you for your detailed explanation of the wet-in-wet technique!

[@colleenlever976]

Thank you for all this help. I watch and rewatch you all the time.

[@meggraham7564]

Another marvellous tutorial. I really like how you make sure everything is explained clearly and then give examples of usage. 😃

[@bethmiller4266]

Thank you, Marty for your time and effort. Your tutorials have really pushed my work forward 👍🌻

[@LaLa_ArtGal]

I'm so happy to have discovered your early videos! These are WONDERFUL! I'm learning such good specifics, and it's already making a difference in the splashing around that I do. THANK YOU! 😁🖌😍

[@christinebell2294]

Best watercolour channel ever.Thankyou x

[@mindofwatercolor]

Why thank you!

[@m072049]

In feel so blessed to have found your teachings...by far the most understandable and comprehensive information I could wish for! I am most grateful! Thank you so much. Marguerite

[@maryriley6163]

Love this wet in wet demonstration. The wet wash on tree trunk was the bees knees and I envision it for mossy ground as well. Thanks so much.

[@dipanjanjana9518]

Really helpful understanding the basics. The best thing is he shows clearly how things work & can be implemented. Thanks a lot!

[@alandryer9861]

These episodes are so helpful - very clear! Thank you so much!

[@bridgette7546]

Thank you for the tutorial! I'm kind of shy about the water coloring, but I love it. Your videos have given me the courage to take the step into water coloring. Thank you, again! 😅

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yeah! Glad to hear it!

[@PamelaRubel]

I am so glad you make videos! Very very good 💗 thank you!

[@Griesinho]

Your videos really inspire me. And they lead me to practise, excercise and experimenting. I‘m getting better just by following your excamples and loosing the „fear“ of this wonderful medium

[@cheekymonkey6573]

I just love the way you explain watercolour - so professionally and jet everything seems so simple. Every time I tried wet in wet I would mess everything up - after watching your tutorial I think I used to much water. Thanks for help!

[@braelia2585]

Oh my god thank you so much for aaaaaaaaall of these videos! Seriously you are a GREAT help for a beginner!

[@emobitch1027]

Thank you so much. Very educational. I love watching your videos to learn more about watercolor because you do such a fantastic job at explaining everything.

[@Savvypriya]

These episodes are so good. I am just starting out with art and watercolors. I tried doing a few backgrounds after watching some KZbin videos but was not able to get the desired result. I watched all 3 episodes in this series and now I know the problems I was facing. These videos also help understand how to begin playing with watercolors. So good. Thank you

[@delphinewood7519]

Thanks for making simple to understand videos. Enjoy all I’ve seen and looking forward to seeing more. Keep posting! 😊🌵

[@micheleburnett5418]

Thank you! Thank you! I was armed with expensive paints, brushes, paper and a strong wish to paint with watercolour. I was almost ready to throw in the towel until I came across your channel. Your videos make it all possible to achieve for me. I am re-inspired and cannot stop practicing now that I have a little practical knowledge in my paint box. Thank you again!

[@maggiedoor6093]

The second example was a great help. Never thought to make my wet area bigger and let it fade out itself. It looks more natural to me than blending it out. I liked the effect on the tree too.

[@franciscogil7473]

i'm new to using watercolor and was kind of lost because i've never painted anything, and this channel gave some good tips.

[@barbaraelliott7078]

Your videos are so comprehensive and helpful in de mystifying watercolour. Barbara

[@tinak5765]

Excellent demonstration. Simple,clear easy to follow.

[@TerrieJohnson731]

I tried the onion like your haystack- 2 mistakes, should have waited for it to dry more, and used my new rigger with thicker paint. Will practice on spheres tomorrow! Trying for expressionistic contour lines.... 2 thumbs up. I feel like I am learning! Many thanks to you and Reece!

[@Ruby-wise]

Thanks! I really like painting trees-this helps so much in creating natural looking bark.

[@lauriepeterson8441]

Can't wait to learn more so helpful.

[@jparker59able]

Thank you. These videos are very helpful.

[@belindahall5220]

Thanks so much for your help and ideas!

[@christineeverett2309]

Congratulations... on this thorough series of lessons... you know your stuff... And this will sure make water coloring a less risky business... Good luck with your community...

[@grahamheywood4426]

All good stuff. Thank you.

[@michaelannfitzgerald8742]

Thank you! This will be great practice :)

[@cindykingsland766]

Thanks for all of the great basic instructions. I am new to watercolor painting. Your tips and basics have helped to clear up some of my questions about this medium.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Cindy Kingsland You're welcome!

[@GeorgeDeep]

Loving this series. Thank you!

[@mindofwatercolor]

3dxstudios Glad to hear it!

[@kasulu57]

understood after long gap the application of water wash..thanks a lot

[@paulettevandenbosch6265]

Thank you ! Such good videos! 🎨

[@anniv3894]

The hay . I see a lion sleeping with its back to us 😁 thank you for the blessings you share . Happy thanks giving

[@marinadossantos7822]

Wow, finally it all makes sense to me! oh this technique seems so much fun!!! Now i understand the "magic" ....it's time to practice!!! You really are the best watercolor teacher I've encountered!!! Thanks Steve, God bless you!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thank you!

[@jojoFranklin]

Just brilliant! - Thank you

[@margehermann9690]

Thank you so much, and for the word of God , blessing

[@quetz.143]

you sir are amazing. you are able to convey your knowledge very well :) thank you for sharing your talent!

[@valeriachilders]

That is amazing! Thanks.

[@jhs7384]

Thank you for sharing.

[@AnaCarboneChambel]

YOU ARE AMAAAAAZING, thank you so much

[@sandycraton934]

so glad I found your site

[@briayanlopez]

I just found my water color teacher!!

[@Roslyngal]

I’m just a bit envious of anyone getting to experience Steve for the first time. Wait until you see how many vids you get to binge! 🤣

[@PeterPalmiotti]

Lessons learned, thanks for sharing your process Steve!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Peter Palmiotti You bet!

[@iamrhazell]

This is such a great help for beginners~~~ :D Thank you so much.

[@Cheryl5154]

Thank you, thank you, thank you for these three videos demonstrating and explaining washes! You do it so well. Oh how I wish my husband could have lived into the You Tube age -- we always wanted to take a watercolor class together. He would be enjoying your tutorials as much as I am. Enough jibber jabber -- it's time to PAINT!

[@mindofwatercolor]

My pleasure. I'm glad your here to watch!🙂

[@galemckiddy5120]

Very clear and helpful! I can see now where I am making my mistakes. Thanks so much 😊

[@hienhuynh9974]

thanks for your great tutorial 👍👍 I've just started with watercolor 3 months and your tutorials have really helped me to understand the basic steps of watercolor

[@mindofwatercolor]

Glad to hear it!

[@dannwiester360]

I did not know you could do a wet in wet on bone dry paint like that, wow that is going to be so much fun and and a lot less work to achieve a natural look. Thank you for sharing.

[@mindofwatercolor]

dann wiester Quite welcome! Works well on Arches Paper. Just lay it down lightly and carefully. If the dry wash is heavy with pigment you might loosen up the underlying pigment. And papers will vary due to sizing differences.

[@brokenwing2005]

Good demonstration. thanks!

[@gourdsbyjm]

Thank you for producing and creating these videos. They are very informational. I also appreciate and enjoy the scripture at the end of each video.

[@mindofwatercolor]

+Jana Manning And I thank you for the appreciation!

[@rizalmanmisran7547]

Watercolor bring me here, thanks for sharing dude..

[@rosevanbuskirk4155]

I want the thankyou package. Love your water color.I am learning a lot from you, thank you. .

[@RosannaCRogacion]

Thank you so much! YOur videos are so helpful to someone starting out in watercolor. The lessons are all amazingly easy to follow. You are amazing!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks so much!

[@joanporter916]

I really enjoy your watercolor vedios. You are my favorite watercolor artist. I appreciate The relaxed clear demonstrations. You are also so fun

[@imnotfromhere]

After watching your tutorials, I think I've been painting too dry! I thought I was already using too much water. I really appreciate your showing the sheen of the paper for more than a few seconds. I'm starting to understand just how much water I need to use to create the effects I've been looking for. Thank you so much for sharing these videos. They truly are very helpful to beginners like me. :)

[@mindofwatercolor]

+pini2k Your welcome. Glad this was a help. How dry vs how wet is a choice and each is appropriate at various times. It just depends on what you're trying to accomplish. Its never the same throughout my painting.

[@imnotfromhere]

I will take that into consideration. Thank you for the tip!

[@JuliannaKahn]

Thank you so much for an extremely informative demonstration. I am just getting an introduction to working with watercolors. It has started with the new water coloring book, Painterly Days, but I am getting inspired to take it further. I am learning so much from you but for me, these wet washes are the real magic of watercolor painting. Thanks again.

[@mindofwatercolor]

+Julianna Kahn They are indeed. Thanks for watching!

[@Julia-vh2ij]

Great video! Take 3!

[@galemckiddy5120]

Very helpful! Thanks!

[@billdollar6155]

Liked the video. Thank you.

[@safwansai8975]

Lots of thanks you are master

[@joanray6897]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. I do enjoy your little snippets, and Happy New Year to you and your friend sitting in the background there!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Reese and I thank you? Happy New Year!

[@andymandyandsheba4571]

wet in wet is the freedom of painting i love wet in to wet now

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yessiree!

[@andymandyandsheba4571]

i use wet in wet when painting my flowers i also flow colors over colors its a great effect

[@imonshaikh7582]

This video is greattt.. thanks sir for inspiring🙏🙏🙏

[@pramodgupta5539]

Your vedios are so helpful...thank you

[@StephenMarkTurner]

I really liked these 3 videos on washes. I can actually manage a large area not too badly, but I had no idea how to do smaller or irregular areas without fussing (and often just lifting the wash right back off the paper) :-). As an aside, it is probably not watercolour, but I am haunted right now by a Stephen Quiller painting where he has this completely stunning strong flat even blue in much of the painting. I would love to have that much control (maybe one day).

[@jessieadair]

Hello, Steve. I'm new to learning about watercolor. I got a couple of library books for beginners to see what tools I need to begin but I learn best by watching so I came to youtube. Thank you very much for sharing your tutorials. I've subcribed and now I'll go to the beginning of your series and watch them in order.

[@mindofwatercolor]

+jessieadair Very kind and encouraging. Thank you, glad the videos are a help!

[@pialehmann9806]

Thank you. I just made a mess today. Your hints are helpful!,

[@rositsazlatanova1146]

Another very useful video - thank you again! :-)

[@heloisabeatrizteixeiradasi7063]

Thank you very much for the excellent lessons.

[@mindofwatercolor]

👍

[@Senn_Art]

Thanks for this video I learned a lot.

[@leannatrottman]

Love this getting wet!

[@LuisaMLara-no4tt]

I love your lively videos!!!

[@mindofwatercolor]

+Luisa M. Lara Thanks!

[@tre14321]

Thank you so much for your watercolor techniques! I feel like everyone else just tells me to, "throw salt on it!" There has to be more to watercolor than that.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Indeed there is. Salt can get a bit gimmicky too if you use the effect too much.

[@patriciah3235]

tre14321 Agree. I tire of the funky techniques that are no substitute for the basic techniques and principles.

[@meri8746]

Thank you!