10 Tips For Watercolour Beginners To Keep Improving

[@crystaltanart]

Join me for a 5 week LIVE course with Penn Art Studio this September - Recreating Vintage Florals with Watercolour - www.crystaltanart.com/onlinecourses

[@sheilamason1895]

Hello, as a teenager I wanted to be an artist. I would stare at clouds and marvel at how an artist could capture a cloud, flower, tree or mountain with such aliveness. My parents discouraged me. Eventually I became a nurse and found it rewarding. Now at 75, I have found KZbin and the one art form I never felt I could even attempt , watercolor, is drawing me to try. I watched this video and am excited to begin this journey. I am alone a lot and might find joy just putting paint to paper. Thank you for this advice.

[@crystaltanart]

What a lovely share Sheila. Art has a beautiful way of circling back.And use that wonderful curious urge and spark to try watercolour! It's so fun and rewarding.

[@noelchristiansen2064]

I am alone a lot too and I just paint, sketch, draw, and hangout with Jesus whenever I feel lonely. Im better at watercolor painting this week than I was last week. 😂

[@wendystocklin9995]

Hello Crystal, I am an older, Uber beginner. My interest is to learn to draw and to learn how to paint with watercolors. These 10 tips make a lot of sense. I am a long time cancer patient, which has progressed to stage 4. Just the little bit that I have done, literally learning to draw and experimenting with watercolors, has already proven to be very relaxing and therapeutic. I will continue until I can’t. You are as lovely as your paintings. Subscribed.

[@crystaltanart]

Hey Wendy, Thank you so much for your vulnerable beautiful share. I'm so happy to hear that art is bringing you so much relaxation and therapy during these difficult moments of life. I can imagine that I will love my paints till I can't anymore, as you say..

[@ilaosecondyr2010]

Hoping that you receive the most gentle days 🤍

[@jkom601]

Dear Wendy, adding best days and surrounding you with peace and joy❣️❣️

[@wendystocklin9995]

To IIao, Mary, and Crystal: Thank you all for your kind words.

[@treesapgrl]

You are a warrior, Wendy. I love that you've found something calming and therapeutic for yourself. Hugs from another uber beginner!

[@lindathaxton1994]

I agree - I started my art journey at age 77 - in watercolor - I love all the GOOD teachers who give of their time & knowledge so total newbies like me can learn! Thank you for sharing 🙏

[@lindathaxton1994]

Started in 2021 - still LOVE it - watercolor is magic!

[@crystaltanart]

Oh wow! I love that you started a new hobby in your 70s! Why not right? It is a great era to learn any new hobby. With all the amazing content we have online.

[@crystaltanart]

Absolutely!

[@cynthialoza6295]

Thank you so much for sharing your art journey with us. I can relate so well with your advice. They make me want to go on with my own art exploration now that I have retired from my work. All the best to you and to all who dare take this creative path.

[@margaretking5086]

Jenna Rainey recommended your Channel, which was so nice 😀👍

[@crystaltanart]

I KNOW and Im so super grateful!!

[@800ST-moto]

I have found a lot of many types of materials (paints, pens, pencils, paper, etc.) at Goodwill. It's all great stuff for a beginner at great prices!

[@crystaltanart]

That sounds awesome!

[@shockingdocumentaries4255]

I had the same experience watching Jenna Rainey videos. Watching her FREE videos is very expensive. 😂 They made me realize that my paints while better than my discount store paints, weren’t good enough to do wet on wet, so I upgraded to more vibrant colors and searched KZbin for the video so I could try it again. The colors are better but both the paint and paper are still not good enough. I actually did WORSE with the better materials somehow. 😮 The new plan is to practice what I can since skills are the biggest factor. Then upgrade in the next 6 months. When I’m ready to buy I’m sending the bill to Jenna. 😂 Thank you for the tips and validating learning how to paint with KZbin. 😘

[@crystaltanart]

LOL you're hilarious and I love it. She's definitely the reason my wallet has suffered. But the truth is after you have gotten the paints and brushes, It doesn't cost so much to keep painting.

[@shockingdocumentaries4255]

@@crystaltanart That’s true. Now that I’m just adding to my art supplies they should be cheaper even with upgrades. And watching product reviews helps me narrow my list. Thank you for the compliment. You’re too kind. 💗

[@meetkaur1000]

Thank u dear. Great tips. Loved your way of talking and your sweet and calm voice.

[@crystaltanart]

You're most welcome! :)

[@berolinastrassmann]

I would add: be consistent, show up, don't give up. However often you decide (once a week, once a day, etc) stick to it. It will help you not to have to start from scratch every time. It is this way you can identify changes or evolution in your style. Thanks for this "top 10 list" -it resonated with me a lot.

[@crystaltanart]

Oh yes! I totally left out that very important advice! In the first version of this video (yes this was actually a retake!) I actually lumped this point into my instagram point coz when I started my Insta account, it made me accountable to paint everyday so I could post everyday. So thanks for picking that out!

[@melissaaldosari8024]

This is fabulous, practical and sensible advice! Thanks! Jenna Rainey sent me! 🎉

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks Melissa! OMG. I'm still in shock about being mentioned in Jenna Rainey's latest video. Ahhh! Thanks for watching and relating :)

[@pennymeyer3416]

Good tips. Thank YOU for all the info. Your space is lovely as your are in it!!

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks Penny!

[@margaretking5086]

Thank You So Much 💓

[@crystaltanart]

You're welcome！

[@Linda-kh6rl]

I love to hear you because you or so honest an so clam. I will be watching you. I hope you do your artwork slow another to go alone with you.

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you Linda :)

[@ranjanachand9306]

Very good advice Crystal 😊 thanks

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much!

[@tomasburgos7017]

I've seen and learned from many water color tutorials for beginners. In my opinion yours is one of the BEST. Very sincere and truthful in what we should all do. I declare the best of success for you in all avenues of life. Namaste!

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you kindly!!! :) :) :)

[@ladyhollman9534]

Excellent advice. My “style” is my own 😊 What I paint is what I see, my life, my experience, my surroundings, my dreams.

[@crystaltanart]

100%! Especially your dreams :)

[@letf.1317]

I really appreciate your 10 tips. Yes, yes, yes! As a child I would get lost in my drawings, I took up all sorts of art classes in college, which I loved. Once life happened with marriage, business goals, raising children and putting everything else first, my creative side was put on a 35 year hiatus. Now at 50+, my guilty pleasure is just now beginning the journey of rediscovering that side of myself unapologetically. So, everything you said in this video resonates and encourages me. Thanks so much for posting this.

[@crystaltanart]

So glad it resonates and is telling you YES you should lean into your "indulgences" completely now that you have more time and space in your life. :)

[@likearainbow7501]

💯 every single thing you said is spot on! 🐦and helpful for new artists🎨 I subscribed

[@crystaltanart]

You're welcome!

[@colleenbixler7427]

This literally brought tears to my eyes! I felt like a really good friend just sat me down and gave me the BEST advice on so many levels!!! Stumbling upon this video was a gift!!! I am an instant fan and follower!!!!!

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much for your super kind comments Colleen!!

[@zainebmasood4169]

Thank you Crystal . Just stumbled on your video. Loved the way you reach out and explain everything so beautifully. I am mid 70, but would love to paint. Hopefully I shall be able to do so.

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks for watching Zaine! Glad you enjoyed the video and will start on your art journey!

[@frandongignac6256]

What a wonderful teacher you are. I am 71 and like others who have commented here I'm just starting out. You have given me the confidence to give this a try and realize that there is a learning curve and not be afraid. Thank you for this video. 😂 (Fran)

[@crystaltanart]

It's crazy when I hear that people don't wanna start coz they are afraid somehow and not be confident? Art is not a competition but a joy to experience! I am so glad to hear you're starting now. Have a blast!

[@connieostroha8423]

First of all Crystal, I subscribed to your channel because I found you enjoyable to listen to. Your ten tips are fabulous. I always wanted to paint but put it off through the years because of work and family; however, like many I started painting during Covid by watching uTube videos. I was retired, age 69 and finally said to myself, this time is for me! I was encouraged by my husband and family! Actually, without realizing it at the time, I actually was following your ten tips. I started with watercolor and also painted with acrylics! I love both, but watercolor is my favorite! Also, I watched the artists you mentioned - Jenna Rainy and Emily Lebouve (sorry if spelling incorrect), but also watch Karen Rice and Lois Davidson. I love their style. Thank you for your encouragement because we all need reminded to just keep going, mistakes and all. 💕

[@crystaltanart]

So glad you resonated!!! And Yes I think We are all going through this same journey together ! Covid - born artists :) Thank you for watching Connie :)

[@daphnebloomfield380]

Crystal, I couldn’t agree with you 100%, every point you made. I have done precisely that, now just waiting to graduate to 100% cotton, and secondly paint something for the family. Meanwhile, I have developed and know practically all the techniques and use them, thanks to all those utube tutorials and artists, who are generous and big hearted. I started during lockdown, never having painted in my life, even the names of the paints were alien to me. I started at the end of the dining room table and a trolly and now have the spare room. I simply keep practising, especially skies. Thanks to all those artists and their tutorials. I have even learnt to draw and sketch.

[@crystaltanart]

That sounds wonderful!!!! We all seem to be on a similar paths to self-discovery of joy & self-empowerment through art!

[@jas0409]

Thank you for this guidance and advice. I already follow and have earnt a lot form the four that you mentioned. Am glad to have come across your channel.. Love and luck with your journey. With prayers from India. P.S. I got back to it after almost 25 years and wonder of wonders, all my old tubes were usable. Cut them open and used You have finally tipped the balance in the favour of Instagram! I have two accounts...one for my flowers and one for my landscapes and birds and artistic photos. Where I paint in camera using different techniques

[@crystaltanart]

Hey Jassan, Thanks for sharing! Amazing that the tube paints still is good to use after 25 years wow! Keep painting!

[@andreak770]

You are spot on with this advice. I am newly retired and just started watercolor. Never before artist here. I did exactly what you suggest and highly recommend it. Paint everyday. I cut the better paper into smaller pieces and did a lot of cards for people. You do you. My dad was an amazing artist and I am completely different. And that’s ok! I did experiment with different things and already know after 5 months in I like ink and wash and abstract. Enjoy the journey, try many things and challenge yourself. it will change too!

[@crystaltanart]

I love your energy and how you KNOW what you like and what you're going for and not being afraid to be different. :) Thanks for watching!!

[@sandybates2366]

I am so glad I came across your Channel. Listening to you is like a burst of sunshine mixed with inspiration and encouragement. I can’t wait to get out my paints and have fun. All your tips are wonderful and just what I needed to hear. Thank you so much.

[@crystaltanart]

Oh Sandy, what a gorgeous sweet comment. :) Thank you for watching !

[@denisevance1045]

Hi Crystal? I’ve been a watercolorist for many years and came upon your channel just checking out new artists I had not seen or heard of yet. What a delight to hear your tips and experiences. You were very correct in all of your advice. I wish you much success and look forward to hearing your next experience. Not only that but I love your accent

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much for your kind words Denise! I have just started my YT channel so I'm glad people are discovering me! Hahaha my accent. It's Singaporean in case you aren't sure where to place me.

[@denisevance1045]

@@crystaltanart Well….it is lovely and so are your pieces

[@jeanneduncan3522]

Thank you Crystal, you are a joy & you inspire me. I’ve loved this advice 🙏🏻

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks!!!

[@mariasnook6558]

Thank you! Your advice helped! I actually created my own instagram for my art and it’s been amazing just in the two days! I’ve gotten so much support and encouragement!

[@crystaltanart]

Yes! Isn't it amazing! The best app for all emerging artists :)

[@shellyparker8960]

Oh my gosh, Crystal! You are a gem and I just love your genuine, positive energy. Your art is so beautiful! I am new to your channel and wow, this video resonated 💯% with my art journey thus far. Painted some in high school and stopped because, you know ... life and family, check. Picked up some cheap watercolor and brushes after I became an empty nester wanting to see if I could paint one of my photos I took while on a bike ride, check. The painting turned out, sits proudly in our living room, and creating it reignited my interest in painting from the seed that was planted so many years prior, check. I set my stuff out on the kitchen table but such a pain to clean it up every time I was done painting, check. I learned so much from artists on KZbin, (thank you!) upgraded supplies, and added new supplies, check. Took over my daughter's room after she moved out to create my own creative space, check. Now, 5 years later, I work in many mediums and create mostly mixed media pieces. I started focusing in watercolor a couple of years ago because I travel monthly between two states so I can help out my mom after my dad died and my watercolor supplies travel easy. So...the moral of this story is that it's never too late to get back on the tracks in your art journey. It's been an amazing ride so far!

[@crystaltanart]

Love your story and yes its so similar! Just making room in our lives for our art, is making room for OURSELVES. And its NEVER TOO LATE! XX

[@annsmith4739]

Just found your channel,love love how you paint ,I will have ago thank you Ann uk 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧❤️❤️❤️

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks so much 😊!!!! Do you paint flowers too?

[@RJones-tn5vg]

Creating a space for myself is going to be difficult, but I definitely see why it's necessary!

[@crystaltanart]

Super important!!!

[@sheilacym]

Excellent, brilliant and just perfect video, Crystal !!!! Absolutely 100% spot on !! 🥳🥳💕💕🤗🤗

[@crystaltanart]

Thank u!!

[@deborahgoodwin3426]

Good afternoon Crystal! I must say, this is a most fortuitous and most fortunate afternoon for me! I just happened to see that one of your videos was available for the very first time and for some reason, it was your name and the number of viewers who had already watched it that caught my attention. And I am sooooo very glad that it did. My love of art began before I can even remember. My earliest memories include sitting on my grandmother's floor surrounded by coloring books and oh so many crayons. I even remember the names of my favorite colors to this day!! Magenta and cornflower blue..... and only crayola for me, lol. As the years passed my passion for anything art continued, to include private lessons in oil with one of New England's finest artists. As we all know, life happens and we must choose our paths.... Many years passed, I married and raised my family, followed several successful careers. In my early 60's I suddenly found myself alone and stricken with a multitude of medical problems. After 2 hip replacements and 2 very extensive cervical and thoracic spinal fusions, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. Since then, I have had radiation and am waiting for further testing. Since pain is a constant daily challenge, I was sitting in my recliner and doing what I have always loved most. I was sketching. And all of a sudden, the thought occurred to me, this is exactly what I need most and the most perfect time in my life to return to my first love. Ever since then, I have immersed myself in UT videos. For some reason, I found myself most drawn to watercolor since it was a medium that had always fascinated me. I followed Lindsay Weirich, Paul Clark, Diane Antone, Harriet de Winton, Nianiani, Ellen Crimi-Trent, James Gurney, Paul Hopkinson, Shelley Prior..... well, you get the idea. I will soon turn 66 and I am thinking that if I can commit to painting and/or sketching something every day, perhaps it is not too late for me, lol. In all truth, what I have found is that as soon as I have a pencil or a paintbrush in my hand, the pain ebbs away and once I begin to see the magic that appears, many hours of pure pleasure have come to replace what once seemed unbearable. This past Christmas season, I was so very proud to have painted all of my cards much to the surprise of my family and friends. They were received with such wonderful enthusiasm that I was inspired to carry on and continue my watercolor journey with renewed vigor. Your tips are so on spot. Your excitement, commitment and pure joy come through the screen and have made me an instant subscriber. I look forward to seeking out all of your past videos and will avidly be following anything that you produce in the future. It is artists such as yourself that I choose to emulate and find that I will learn the most from. By the way, I have already begun to venture out and begin painting from pictures that I happen to find in magazines, pictures that I have taken of my own container plantings and pictures that my friend and I have taken of the very old historic buildings in our little town. So far, so good. 😊 The remainder of my life may be short but I can choose to fill it with beauty with the generous help of talented artists such as yourself. 👩‍🦳🖌️🎨

[@crystaltanart]

Dear Deborah! Thank you for long, thoughtful, beautiful sharing of your experience and journey with art. You paint a very nostalgic beautiful image of yourself surrounded by the crayons with your grandma. So precious. I love that through your physical difficulties, art has been there for you. I wish you all the best! And like you, I imagine myself painting for the rest of my life, whether it be long or short. XXX

[@roselucht4583]

Thank you for wise words of wisdom! Art must be a joyful journey!

[@crystaltanart]

It is very joyful indeed! Thanks you for watching!

[@Jeshkp]

Hi Crystal, I am very grateful to discover your leaves video because it is now spring here in Germany. And coming from a tropical climate in Malaysia, it never fails to fascinate me to experience the changes in plants and trees around me every season. I was inspired by the influence of art in the development of identity and self concept in preschool children. I am drawn to water colour and have been playing with it a little and doing it with the children at the kindergarten. Lately it has been on my mind a lot and been randomly watching art videos. This video has given me very good guidelines to venture into the world of art. I want to be able to paint to enjoy art and maybe to have enough basic skills to offer sessions to preschool children. Thank you for making this video. It is very helpful. Also I like that you are just being yourself. Sharing your journeys and being honest with your opinions. Less fluff, more of the real stuff. Keep it up❤

[@crystaltanart]

Aw thanks for the lovely comment! It's a wonderful world to open ourself to art! And watercolour is such a gorgoeous medium to start with. I always admired watercolour paintiungs when I walk into art galleries, but never imagined taking the time to learn. Thank goodness for youtube :) The children will benefit from a passionate teacher that is learning along beside them.

[@Kass268]

I agree with you Crystal. You validated so many of my thoughts and beliefs. Having a room of our own with our supplies and be ready to paint is very important. I’m working on getting my studio/room soon and I can’t wait. Your videos are so real and informative. Thank you for sharing .

[@crystaltanart]

Thank u! We need our little space that is ours alone. So empowering. Good luck on your journey!

[@tovaratzon8352]

I’m 59 and want to learn how to draw and water color paint. I have zero talent but great desire. You are an inspiration. I think you’re awesome and I’m so happy to have landed on your page. Sending good thoughts your way. Your positivity is so healing. Thank you for sharing with us. Shalom from the coast of North Carolina!

[@crystaltanart]

Painting doesn't have to do with talent, but with exactly what you've got - DESIRE. Just follow your urges and desires to create and do so! Thank you so much for your lovely comment Carolina. :)

[@JoyAloha709]

Shalom Tova! Good luck on your art journey. Don’t worry about “talent”. Just have fun and express yourself. Kol tuv!

[@PaulaScardamalia]

This is the first video of yours I've watched. Love the point about not worrying about developing style. I'm a writer/author and so many writers worry about developing "voice" in the same way. Also, I had to smile as I just finished my fourth or fifth painting that isn't a tutorial, and I'm feeling pretty good about that. All good points.

[@crystaltanart]

I think we all already have our own voice or style ANYWAY without realising it. People can see / feel our style more than we can see it ourselves.

[@colleenbeanish7207]

No wonder you are getting so many views of this video, Crystal; it is so clear, so positive, so common sense and inspiring at the same time. I can’t believe how similar our journeys have been, although I am a year or so behind you. I have followed all 10 of your steps myself. I’m still challenging myself to move away from samples and tutorials more often, but I feel like I learn so much from them. Perhaps one day my distinct style will emerge. Thanks again for sharing!!💜

[@crystaltanart]

You're most welcome Colleen! yes this video is really blowing up in a way I never expected to! There will be a transition from tutorials to trying to paint on your own and that could be many months or even years! Don't rush it. Just find joy and lean into whatever you FEEL in the moment to do. I occasionally still love a @jennarainey tutorial.

[@shirleyb4492]

Awesome 10 ideas 😂 Art as a kid was discouraging & I was too timid to speak out! Tried painting with my wonderful mother in law, but was advised my talents were in other areas. When grandkids came along, I decided that coming to our house was meant to be FUN, so we tried lots of artsy stuff & giggled so much! Then life got really challenging & I retired on disability. Then had multiple surgeries, being housebound for 3 years, it was then, our youngest granddaughter grew old enough for crafts! Online shopping + debit card to the rescue! She introduced me to acrylics & found I was actually artistic! Looking at KZbin, I became mesmerized by watercolor & set aside acrylics, jumping into watercolor exclusively ~ an amazing benefit occurred ~ while engrossed in watercolor painting, my pain disappeared ☺️ and so did my view of my world as I began to “see” for the first time. I share every pix with my sis & sister in law & my journey is captured. Looking around our house, “my” art hangs proudly on our walls & I joyfully announce “I painted that” ~ I thank God I didn’t automatically recall past false starts! Been painting now 18 months, just turning 68 & yes, my studio is permanently set up at our dining room table where the light & outdoor space is ideal; we eat at our game table & it’s perfect! I loved best your tip, if possible, to try multiple types of brands of paint & paper. For me, it’s like saying “ok paint/paper, show me how you’re unique!” I’ll add three more of my favorite YT watercolorists: Harriet deWinton, Diane Antone & Paul Clark. I thank all the YT and online artists including you, who willingly share their love, talent, & encouragement ~ what a blessing! New sub here! I can’t wait to discover how your journey will impact mine! Many thanks from Oregon 👩🏻‍🎨 ❤️🎨🖼

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you for sharing your beautiful, rich incredible journey in and out of art over your whole life! The hairs on my arm stood up when I read how your pain disappeared when you started with watercolour. How freaking amazing. Isn't KZbin amazing? I'll be forever grateful. :) Thanks for coming along on this journey with me!

[@juliegaona3478]

I'm learning from KZbin and all the others. I love it. I started 4 months ago. I'm watching you now.

[@crystaltanart]

Thank u!!! :)

[@olgat.155]

The dedicated space is very important. I had to fight for it 😅, but that’s where you get to work for your art. Excellent tips really!

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks for watching! Glad you think so. :) Yes space is so so key!

[@noelchristiansen2064]

❤I love your cute watercolor-ee sweater!

[@crystaltanart]

Haha thanks! Its one of my fav sweaters!

[@loriehaisen9555]

This is the first time I've seen your channel. I love your energy and have subscribed to your channel. I used to be a portrait artist years ago, and I've had such a hard time getting back into art. Not sure why, but my desire for it died many years ago and I would love to have that passion back. Your excitement about watercolor is contagious.

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks Lorie! I think our passion for things ebbs and flows. The key thing is to lean into if you feel the urge! Wishing you all the best getting back into art :)

[@michaelsigler5820]

You should also watch Kristie Rice painting for joy. Also great energy

[@warwickwinterbach6072]

Thank you for keeping it so simple and not intimidating Crystal - my first discovery today of your channel - Really Inspiring information in such a relaxed manner - Thank you for your informal kindness - your passion exudes

[@crystaltanart]

You are so welcome! Thank you for the kind warm words. :)

[@dianedunn848]

Crystal this video was SO HELPFUL!! It's getting me back to painting. I am a beginner and struggle with simply what to paint..overthinking how to paint what I like which just keeps me from painting anything. I'm grateful for your experience and sharing your journey with us. Thank you :)

[@crystaltanart]

You are so welcome!

[@brendasnow8255]

Crystal, you’ve done such a great job of encouraging painters! I do have a space and storage for my supplies upstairs, but now, widowed, I’m moving to the kitchen table. It’s easier to just pick up a brush if it’s right here on the main floor where I now spend most of my time. Thank you for your ten tips. Flowers are my favorite things, followed by fruits and vegetables, which are easy and fun.

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks for sharing Brenda. When I had my art supplies near my kitchen I definitely painted more. Now that i have a studio seperate from my house (just a few steps away in my backyard) I dont paint as often but when I do, im less interrupted. So there's pros and cons I guess.

[@michellehilty2300]

Thank you I have been watercoloring 6 months I love it!!! I love florals too;)

[@crystaltanart]

You are so welcome! I can't get enough of florals.

[@elizabethheyenga9277]

I'm also a beginner, trying to recover some health and harmony. I appreciate your voice, calm, starting simple. No Insta for me though. Thank you.

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks for sharing Elizabeth! And Im glad my voice sounds soothing :)

[@janakiperera7387]

Thank you Crystal. Best advice so far. Started painting when I retired. Now I am 76 and have been painting for 5 years. Love the way you explain. Thank you. ❤

[@crystaltanart]

So wonderful! With this passion, I know that when I retire too, I will never be bored!

[@catherinemccarty2307]

Crystal...thank you so much! I started doing junk journals a year ago (after never having done any sort of art/drawing.watercolor, ect) and I almost 'boxed myself in. I couldn't figure out my style. Come to find out, I am most interested in drawing and watercolor painting and not so much creative journaling...of course I still like that but I LOVE watercolors. I have discovered after listening to this video that I am right on target with my first year. Every tip you offer has been spot on with my own creative adventure. I struggle with mental illness and since I have picked up a brush, my fears have just melted away. Painting is something we all do at some point. Everybody starts at about the same level in our creative adventures (at least we most do). It has a lot to do with the energy you put into it. It is so much fun to go back and look at my progress over the last year. If anyone ever asks me, I always tell people to get a watercolor journal to paint/draw in and do it once a month to track your progress...similar to your idea about Instagram. Thank you! Blessings and gentle hugs! C

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much for sharing Catherine. Its so true... I used to get depressed every now and then, feeling of hopelessness in life, but ever since I started painting, I don't recall having those feelings much at all. How wonderful eh? Big hugs back.

[@OscarRios]

I’m all for the therapeutic benefits. Mental health is important and what a better way to do it with your channel. Looking forward to your next video. Thank you

[@crystaltanart]

Wonderful! Thanks for watching!

[@mindyborsato9824]

I am loving my boxes!!! And this painting was my favourite

[@crystaltanart]

So glad!

[@calmblueocean1177]

I’ve been painting sporadically for years. Within the last month I actually decided I would practise painting and sketching daily. I promised myself that when I filled my sketchbook using only supplies I have, I would buy myself better quality paint and paper. I discovered this video today and WOW, every point resonated exactly with what I’m doing on my journey. I’m so grateful to hear your advice! Thankyou. (I immediately subscribed to your channel.) ❤ I wish you only great things ❤🎉🎉🎉

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you tremendously for your kinds! All the best on your wonderful art journey. :)

[@carolefreeman2544]

I am a newbie at Art and specifically Watercolour. I find this video very enlightening. You explained the process of beginning watercolour art very clearly and thoughtfully. Thank you so much for your easy guidance into what is a beautiful hobby 🤗🇨🇦

[@crystaltanart]

You are so welcome! I'm only so happy to know that my videos are uplifting and motivating!. Enjoy your hobby!

[@kambrose1549]

Brilliant tips! I have been painting for 30 +years and I learned things here. You are spot on about style. Did you mention Brushes? A Good brush makes a huge difference. Having a space is fundamental too. It's not just men who need a cave😂

[@crystaltanart]

TOTALLY. We need our caves too! I actually didnt mention brushes because in my experience, cheaper taklon / nylon brushes can be pretty alright! But of course as I progressed I have my fav brushes. Will do a proper supploes video soon perhaps!

[@mieczyslawapascoe7234]

Thank you, Crystal. I find your tips encouraging and helpful, especially the last one. I've been painting for 2 years and sort of blame myself for not finding my style yet. But you say it shouldn't be rushed so now I shall just focus on the enjoyment of painting.

[@crystaltanart]

Oh gosh dont be blaming yourself! You probably already have a style, you just can't see it yet.

[@leannesawtell1155]

Hi Crystal, I’ve only just stumbled over your site today…….lucky me. 😊 I luv what you do, your style is so beautiful. It’s always refreshing to find someone who makes everything seem exciting, while keeping it real and simple for beginners like me. Thank you so much for this video and all the fabulous tips. I can’t wait to watch more of your videos. Thanks again from “down under” in Australia 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@crystaltanart]

Hey Leanne Thank you for your beautiful generous comment! I love that so much. Exciting yet real and simple. Have fun on this art journey!

[@myjewelry4u]

I enjoyed your encouragement, I haven’t painted in a long time. I feel like I have to have everything else done before I allow myself the joy of art lately.

[@crystaltanart]

I know that feeling. There's just so much to get done. One trick that helped me was to face my painting desk AWAY from the rest of the house/mess. So it looks out to a window. So when I sit down to paint, I am not distracted by the mountain of things to do.

[@pamfendlason3817]

Thank you so much for this! I am retired, I started at 57. I still feel like my art is not good enough. I take classes once a week. I practice every day.

[@crystaltanart]

It's great to feel the hunger of wanting to get better! Keep practicing!

[@suebeehilly]

Crystal - what a great video! It made me feel incredibly optimistic bc my recent journey w watercolor, which began about 3 weeks ago, seems to parallel your journey! I had done watercolor a few times in the past, taken classes, and when I did finish a painting, I liked the result. But I wasn’t crazy about the process- it was self-inflicted stress; I had that perfectionist mindset - everything had to “look like” the real thing. And now, I love both the end result AND the process. Not only am I having so much fun, but I’m really gaining confidence and am feeling better about other aspects of my life. Before watching you on this video, I would just scour KZbin everyday for watercolor videos that I can follow along with, but I felt a bit alone on this path. So, thank you. 🌸It’s nice to know that there is a community that loves this as much as I do. Now I am even more excited about where this will take me!

[@crystaltanart]

Hey Sue! Just reading your comment made me so excited and enthusiastic for you! It really is a amazing, fun journey, with lots of lots of people within your own specific niche of watercolour art you can feel a part of! Make sure you join instagram and start connecting as well! Enjoy the journey!!!!

[@suebeehilly]

@@crystaltanart Thanks! I just created an account on Instagram and will figure out what I want to put on there soon.

[@tanyasealark]

Hi Crystal I’ve done quite a few of your suggestions. Thanks so much for this. My maternal side of family is from Malaysia/S’pore. I find your accent so comforting. 😊

[@crystaltanart]

Wonderful! SO lovely to have people recognise my accent. It's not super common. Am glad that Michelle Yeoh and Ronnie Chiang is raising the profile of people from M'sia/ S'pore!

[@lindathaxton1994]

I also have a corner of our living room that is mine - just for MY art - it’s wonderful!

[@crystaltanart]

Isn't it??? The small seed of self-care for me was the moment I had my own corner. So good.

[@JillTowery]

Thank you!! I feel pressure to find my style, my voice, blah blah blah!! I just want to get better by experimenting and playing.

[@crystaltanart]

It's crazy isnt it? This pressure!

[@flourishedbeautybindery]

Hello! I'm also new to art and in my room I have a stress space (were my I spent my time for work/business stuff) and my happy space, this is were I do my art, I hang my favorite art pieces and color palette for inspiration. 😊

[@crystaltanart]

oh wow. interesting how you seperate your spaces. Have you tried combining it so you'll feel less stress when you're working?

[@flourishedbeautybindery]

@@crystaltanart uhmmm nope. Because when I work I want to focus on it. And when I feel overwhelmed with it, I turned my chair around to see my happy space waiting for me ☺️ this helps me motivated to finish my work early hihi 🤗🤗🤭

[@crystaltanart]

@@flourishedbeautybindery Oh yeah, I got you. :)

[@tradingpostfarms]

That is what I started with. It was early in the pandemic, locked down, when the kids and I pulled out the art supplies and began using kids paints and paper. It was so much fun. I've painted everyday since. I've of course upgraded my supplies but those first months of my journey were amazing!

[@crystaltanart]

Oh coooool! So many of us locked down mums have had the same journey!!!

[@janicehayward5808]

You are adorable. You make so much sense with all your tips. Thank you from a beginner.

[@crystaltanart]

Oh thank you!

[@carissapicchi8199]

I feel like you are speaking directly to me!!!! "I started painting with Jenna Rainey and I noticed my SAP green looked nothing like Jenna's." Word-for-WORD. Love this! Thank you for sharing. I just started painting and have been wandering around in the art world, trying to find my way. I subscribed to your channel and I am so excited to listen and watch everything you have to offer. THANK YOU

[@crystaltanart]

Love that! That's so uncanny but I think lots of us Jenna-fans probably felt the same way too. Thank you for the sub! And with all these beautiful support and comments, I will most definitely endevour to keep producing more videos like this on my channel!

[@katewalton6350]

Hi Chystal just found you, what an inspiring tutorial! I started my journey in the beginning of covid and have gone gun hoe, Im obsessed. My big oak kitchen table became my space I live alone. So necessary to have my supplies in reach. Love it all even my mistakes, always in a great frame of mind, its my sanity these days. Thankyou!

[@crystaltanart]

Woohoo! I love that! I used to have my supplies and painting ALL OVER my kitchen table as well! It's definitely easier when you live alone :)

[@claudiodonofrio6963]

Best watercolour tips ever!

[@crystaltanart]

Wow, thank you!

[@creativewah]

I love all these amazing tips! I definitely want to try creating birthday and holiday cards for my granddaughter. Thank you for sharing!

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks for watching! They are all what I did in my first year and loved every element of it. :) Im sure your family will love your hand made cards!

[@joanlowder1376]

Thank you. My husband and I are watching hours in am, afternoon, just before bed. We are both giving it a try. Thanks for advice. Winston-Salem NC. UsA 11:51

[@crystaltanart]

Wonderful :)

[@alicechampagne7091]

I’m so glad you are giving this wonderful advice! My art journey has been off and on for decades, with the exception of the last 10 years after I retired. The best advice I can share is to make a commitment to draw or paint something everyday. I even carry a small sketchbook in my purse. I’m also not too hard on myself when I don’t get a chance to make art every day. Yes, just because I’m retired doesn’t mean that I have all the Time in the world. Thanks again!

[@crystaltanart]

Yes thats definitely a very good advice for beginners! A daily practice. And of course being a retiree doesnt mean you sit around being free!

[@janetlundstedt9350]

Wonderfully motivating and validating on the process of becoming. Thank you🙏🏻😘

[@crystaltanart]

You are so welcome

[@lozantoninocreations]

I have just subscribed, as I love helping YTers grow :) You're in Melbourne? Me too :) I don't know anything about watercolour and was just thinking that I need some tips and to learn. I have mostly used acrylic and oil paints and I am now working with pencils. I used Instagram the same was as you and love seeing the progress of my own skills grow. I actually just changed to 100% cotton paper for pencils and wow it definitely makes a huge difference. I was the same as you and didn't want to move to quickly to the expensive paper, knowing that I am learning too, but I was starting to find that I was limited beforehand in my growth, as the paper I was using, just wasn't good enough. I am working on my first piece now with the nicer (very expensive) paper and I am loving it. I want to buy the A3 version of the paper I am now using, but its so expensive, that I am going to have to wait for that one. Plus as a learner, I am mostly more comfortable with A4 at the moment, even though I know this wont be true soon.

[@crystaltanart]

It's SO HARD to feel relaxing using expensive paper! Have you tried buying full sheets and then cutting them into smaller pieces? I will need to do a video on that one day.

[@crystaltanart]

And yes! I'm in the upper yarra valley though. Warburton.

[@vivianperrin2598]

i AM SO SO THANKFUL I DOUND THIS VIDEO. THANK YOU.

[@crystaltanart]

You're so welcome!

[@KTM-xx3yd]

Helpful video, it is important to be patient and experiment with joy, and to leave out any kind of the pressure. For me, painting has become a new wonderful journey!

[@crystaltanart]

You're so on point there - just leave out any kind of pressure. As that can rob one of painting with joy!

[@lizzy9975]

I use a cheaper non cotton water colour paper for just practicing via a journal. And use the good stuff when I actually do something serious

[@crystaltanart]

Same. I have so many different levels of cotton paper.

[@lindyartforfun]

Great video love love this..I use my kitchen bench when I can. I follow many of those on KZbin do. I also love Louise De Masi also an Aussie. Thank you for your insight and I totally agree.

[@crystaltanart]

Yes! Thank you Lindy! Glad you liked the video :)

[@laetitiaduminy5630]

Very helpful!! Quite a few tips I am going to do today.

[@crystaltanart]

I hope you find them helpful!

[@geegee3318]

So true about the upgrading paint first then paper. I am at the stage between the two. I have some cotton but I feel like it's too precious. I do the math like you and count the dollars I spend before I even put brush to paper. I'm sure I'll get over it once I'm comfortable painting. Thanks for the videos of info! 🌷

[@crystaltanart]

Glad you agree! We all have our own tolerance of what we allow ourselves to 'waste' and will get over that threshold when we are ready. What helps me is thinking how a $2 sheet of paper will give me 1hr of 'therapy' , alot cheaper than actual therapy! That helps.

[@BeeGeeTee]

This was such a lovely encouraging video 🥹 I'm definitely on the right track! I loved all things visual art as a kid but after experience some horrible traumas, I stopped creating anything. I've healed as an adults and it's been so much fun exploring and playing. What a gift art is! So I became obsessed with painting during the pandemic and bought a pad of Arches in 2021. I *JUST* opened it 😅 Granted, my supplies sat collecting dust for about two years and I've just picked them back up but still... it's funny lol. I've spent that $25 100x over but just couldn't bring myself to use the paper. I'm so very tickled 😅

[@crystaltanart]

Im so glad to hear you're picking up your paints again! I know its so funny how we dont want to waste supplies. But it's never a waste because we are always learning and growing and it's so therapeutic!

[@juliegaona3478]

I love your advice. Yes, I'm making art for my family and friends

[@crystaltanart]

Yay!

[@ruthdallas6125]

Great ideas Crystal good to hear how you got started. I agree the quality of the paint is not that important and even the brushes don’t matter much as long as you have some with a good point maybe a liner and a flat. But watercolor paper is a whole different thing. I have tried several brands and some not even that inexpensive but they make the doing a good watercolor painting almost impossible. You could get away with just wet on dry but if you try wet on wet or washes or just about anything else you will be miserable and want to give up. Arches is by far the best and you can use both sides. Blick Art paper is acceptable but not if you are using a lot of water. I haven’t tired the other English expensive papers but if the paper is 100% cotton you can use all the water you need to and you can lift out color easily and even gently erase small mistakes but you will fail miserably if you use other papers.

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks for sharing Ruth!

[@kendrasong8606]

This is a wonderful video thank you for the validation to go slow and enjoy watercolor.

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks Kendra!

[@ishrika13]

Hi Crystal, I just found out you today , I'm in love with your painting. And the journey you are saying is very very similar to mine. Your tips are very useful and valuable. Thanks so.much ❤❤

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much for your lovely message! And glad my journey resonates with yours.

[@Jlibby63]

Omg i can so relate to this! I started my watercolor journey a couple of months ago, and i feel like a sponge for tutorials, art supplies, art books etc lol, and now i find out its normal! Im almost 60, and feel like i just discovered a new love, its art!! Thank you❤

[@crystaltanart]

Totally normal! Its an obsession but a good kind. :) Enjoy the journey!

[@paulinemccabe6664]

Love your top,it’s like one of your watercolour paintings.❤

[@crystaltanart]

Oh thank you! Its one of my fav jumpers (sweaters to Americans :)

[@halleyjazz8299]

Well said! Thank you. I've done a lot of these things since starting an art journey during the pandemic (although different mediums). Your paintings are beautiful.

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much!! The Pandemic brought about so much creativity in the world!

[@elizzievb]

Great video! Thank you Crystal! 👍

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks so much!

[@nobodynothing2594]

You’re so beautiful & have such a serene vibe & aura! Subscribed!

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you so much!!

[@greatpondgirl]

Number 10 was perfect… something I think I knew in my heart but it was good to hear it out loud! Thanks!

[@crystaltanart]

Love that! I am so glad to hear that all I did was say back to you what you already KNOW and FEEL. :)

[@cutley427]

OMG!!! Just found you! Everything you said and the way you said it really hit me ! Love the way you speak! Lol!

[@crystaltanart]

Thank you Cindy! So happy to hear I'm resonating!

[@debbieotto131]

Just found you! Also I love that shirt 👚

[@crystaltanart]

Thanks Debbie! xx

[@kathrynwoolcock4943]

Hello Crystal, greetings from Sydney au 😊. I discovered watercolour on KZbin during lockdown also and I just love it. I discovered your channel today. Thank for such a down to earth and personable video. Yes, I watched lots and follow a couple of the artists that you mentioned. I retired just before lockdown and really needed something to keep me going. I’ve always fiddled with art and craft but have never had any training beyond what I learned at school many moons ago. The painting channels on KZbin absolutely saved me. Since then I have found a wonderful teacher and groups of like minded people in my greater area so it’s now ‘all go’. I have claimed a spare bedroom as my art space and have a wonderful in there most days. I look at the world through different eyes now, those of an artist I’m told! Thanks again, I’m about to watch another video of yours. 👋🏻👋🏻👩🏻‍🎨😊😊

[@crystaltanart]

That all sounds SUPER AWESOME! Love love love your story and I can feel the energy and excitement in your words. Thanks so much for watching the video and supporting my little channel! Nice to have Aussies here too!

[@juliegordon8952]

Love watching you grow

[@crystaltanart]

Aw thanks Julie!!! X

[@NDA374]

Thank you for such wonderful tips. God bless you.

[@crystaltanart]

You are so welcome!

[@ruthiepooh86]

I’m also a renewed beginner having dabbled quite a bit 20 years ago before KZbin. My journey has been pretty much like yours. I have my own table I call “my studio”. Lol

[@crystaltanart]

Thats so cool Ruth. I didn't touch "art" till 2.5 years ago! Your table is totally your studio!

[@cathrynclark5287]

Love the idea of having your own art space !!! That's really hard for family members to recognize.

[@crystaltanart]

Turn that 'idea' into reality!