My Journey in Watercolour and How I Turned it into a Career

My Journey in Watercolour and How I Turned it into a Career
Today on the Quick Fix I want to tell you my story (while teaching a cute little watercolour doodle.) I get asked a lot about how I got to this point and this is a little rambling video for you. I've also invited you to comment with any questions you have on this subject and I'll answer them as best I can.
Colours I used: Alizarin Crimson, Cadmium Yellow, Paynes Grey, Cadmium Red, Cadmium Orange
Brushes: size 4,2,4/0
You can now buy the exact brushes I am using in my tutorials as well as plenty of art supplies! www.etsy.com/uk/shop/deWinton...
#watercolourquickfix #watercolour #watercolor #painting #dewintonpaperco #howtopaint #howtowatercolour #learntopaint #harrietdewinton #landscapepainting #landscapepaintingforbeginners #treepainting #colorblend #layeringpaint

[@yvonnereistad9031]

Dear Harriet I really love your lessons and find your two books must inspiring i love it when you say it is never too late Because I have to admit that I am 83 and don’t have any friends getting married but have started sending birthday cards which people tend to like

[@nancye7520]

Yay for you!! I started painting at 55. I’m 64 now. Have fun 🤩

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Yvonne how brilliant! Yes, it’s certainly never too late. I bet your friends are so thrilled to have a hand painted card from you!

[@whiteknightoverland]

Yes, please! I’d love to hear how you digitize your watercolour paintings! BTW, I lOVE your channel and your videos and your books. :) Thank you for sharing!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah thanks so much!

[@naseemsaif4353]

Thanks for sharing was very inspiring for a beginner artist like me and would love to know how you digitise your watercolour paintings …

[@juliasaunders2165]

I discovered you last year after picking up my art after many years. I joined the sketchbook challenge to get me through the winter lockdown and haven't stopped since! You have been a huge inspiration to me and I have followed pretty much all of your posts on here and have painted many of them. I have both books and love them. I bought the set of Masterstroke brushes after watching you use them and they are fabulous! I have so many brushes - many of them cost much more than the Masterstroke brushes - and I use very few of them now... some have even been relegated to my cake decorating kit! From almost being too scared to start my first challenge sketch just over a year ago, I'm going to start work on my 4th pet portrait tomorrow! Your engaging tutorials and generous sharing of your skills have given me the courage to put my art out there. It will never make me rich financially but it has enriched my life beyond measure. Thank you. I'm also going to tackle setting up an Instagram account tomorrow!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Julia this is amazing, you’ll make me cry! So glad you have found such a positive outlet in watercolour - it sounds like you’ve got a creative eye with your cake decorating. Cake decorating is something I love to watch!

[@elenavaleto]

Thank you so much, Harriet. You are a true inspiration for all your students. It's true!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much!

[@deannamunro8148]

Harriet - I am ...wait for it...71 and have been watching you paint for a couple of years. I love your ease with whatever you are painting and your ease with letting us know what you are doing and why. I am not going to open myself/art to the world - too old to begin that now, but for anyone wanting to start - do it now! What a wonderful story you have to tell and how encouraging that will be to those who are excited about getting their art out there for anyone to share. I have for many years painted on glass - anything glass - and sold at markets and shows and private orders/sales. It was wonderful but oh all that heavy glass and the set up! I no longer paint or sell the glass but it was great while it lasted. This, this lovely paper and paint - how wonderful. And like you, those who get the opportunity, or chase the opportunity, to freelance - wonderful way to go. And, as you said - don't let this joy of painting turn into something that no longer brings you that joy. So, all that being said, I will continue to paint, continue to enjoy every video you share with us and be grateful I found this, even at my age! And that brings me joy! PS: have both your books and they are perfect!!

[@lindabloom6666]

I'm 72 and started a year ago. Never too late!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah Deanna, how inspiring you are!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Absolutely!

[@deannamunro8148]

@@deWintonPaperCo thank you for saying that.

[@theresamichener9060]

Thank you for sharing. I started painting because of Covid and now I love it so much because it is so therapeutic.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

So glad Theresa x

[@sandyvillanueva4679]

Hello Harriet, How nice of you to share your story, thank you! I found your channel quite by accident. I was looking for something on KZbin when I saw your beautiful tulips scroll by, and I had to watch it. That was all it took. Then I only watched as you painted for a few weeks, until I finally decided to give it real try. I had painted many things before, but never with watercolor paints. It was very different, but your paintings were so lovely I really wanted to create that soft beauty on paper. I am so grateful for you and your channel and books (I just bought your second one) that has taught me to do so! My friends can't believe it when I give them a card or small painting! Unfortunately, I work a regular 9-5, so to be able to sit long enough - uninterrupted - is the challenge. So right now it is a "passion" and I paint when I can which makes it hard to develop my skill. But I do persist with all my heart. After all, I don't want to have regrets like Lady Catherine de Bourgh "If I had ever learnt, I should have been a great proficient." I have 2 years to retirement! Woohoo! Blessing, Sandy

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Sandy wow this is wonderful thank you!

[@lindagordon8811]

Hi Harriet, I just discovered your channel. I have been doing watercolor for years with a 7 year break. I enjoyed how you spoke as you were painting. I painted along with you using a gold paint pen for the leaves. Thank you for sharing. I believe it helps so many people. 🌺

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much!

[@shirleytang5542]

It was so inspiring in watching your videos. I again picked watercolour painting up in Jan 2023 after I quilted three years ago as I found that watercolour painting being the hardest to achieve though I liked it so much. Only that I found your videos last month and learned your techniques, now sort of gained back confidence❤, mega thanks to you Harriet 🎉

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much Shirley!

[@ginabadeaux9319]

i have been painting in all mediums for 27 years now ,i was 36 and my boys went off to school .i made the decision to stay home so i picked up art supplies and have never stopped creating art, it is my passion,ive not had an income from it ,im on retirement now in low income housing and i paint like its my job,it makes me happy i love watercolor so much

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Gina that is fantastic news!

[@jenscloset]

I love hearing your story!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you Jen!

[@Angela.Lopez.]

It's very inspiring Harriet. I'm learning by my self too. I found you and a few other watercolour artists and it's great. I've never tried other techniques because I'm also in live with watercolour.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah thanks Angela, so glad you're enjoying it!

[@sherylpiche9878]

I love to hear from "real" people. Thanks for all you do!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You’re welcome!

[@clairedrinkwater2925]

My daughter gave me your Botanical book for Christmas which inspired me to get painting again. The brushes came this week they really make a difference. I followed you on KZbin today & had such fun painting along with you. Thank you so much for having such a relaxed & friendly approach, I look forward to following more of your posts.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

That is awesome!

[@Camille719]

Love this. Thank you.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You are so welcome!

[@chrislora8895]

I am impressed that you can both talk AND paint simultaneously! I can only do one, sort of, at a time. Lovely doodle, lovely inspirational story. Thank you!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much! I actually prefer to chat when I paint otherwise my brain gets a bit noisy!

[@mary-allisonobrien3136]

BTW I absolutely love your tutorials! You’ve been tremendously helpful and I so appreciate you!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh thank you so much

[@ljscheible6007]

That's the prettiest doodle I've ever seen. And thank you for sharing your story.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah thanks!

[@helenawhite7099]

Thank you for your support. You are truly a life saver during Covid. I relax while watching and trying your videos.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

So glad it’s been helpful Helena!

[@theresaavery4670]

Thank you for sharing your story as well as your gift of painting with watercolor. I have learned so much from you!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Theresa!

[@yiweilu9882]

So inspiring to listen to your story of how you started! It gives me more reason in believing in myself and be more confident 💕

[@deWintonPaperCo]

That’s my hope that it helps people with their own self esteem!

[@debbiestallard694]

Thank you Harriett ❣️ for sharing and encouraging us with your order. I love your explanations and how that makes exciting art work come to life.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You’re so welcome Debbie!

[@lemondrop32]

I always enjoy watching your watercolor talent. Thank you for sharing so much! You are such an inspiration to me!!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks so much Joy!

[@lincorrie5894]

Thank you Harriet for such a lovely, therapeutic video. I was mesmerised listening and watching, you make your tutorials so personal somehow, like you are in the same room. I love the brushes btw, definitely the best I've ever got. Xx

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh brilliant Lin, so glad you like the brushes

[@debitoney5442]

I just received your beautiful and amazing brushes this past week! They are fabulous! Thank you for all of your wonderful videos and how much you encourage beginners!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah so pleased!

[@MsMoniqueWilson]

I started painting a little over a year ago. Definitely a Covid thing. You were one of the first artist on KZbin to inspire me. I don't have an art background at all so the learning curve was a bit steep but I can honestly say I love it so much. And...I've actually sold a few of my paintings which is really validating.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

That is awesome!

[@voliabrandaolaveneremachad7849]

You are very inspiring! Thanks for sharing your expertise and your journey!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks for watching!

[@mayandianianandmaydempster1510]

Lovely, well done, clever girl.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you! 😊

[@SuperBonnie1969]

I really enjoyed your commentary while you painted. 🙂🥰

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks!

[@MultiMartina12]

What a beautiful video! Thank you so much 😊

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks for watching!

[@suemartel2883]

Thank you for sharing.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Sue!

[@livinglifeinthenorth8512]

Thank you for sharing! I really appreciate you and your videos. ❤️

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah thank you so much

[@angelaholton8083]

So inspiring, I love watching your videos.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Angela!

[@bimmermom]

That was just lovely and so relaxing … I’m in my 70’s and am so pleased to have found you (plus a couple of others) who have inspired me to do something I didn’t know i could do … so nice to hear how you and Ant got started ❤️

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks so much Diane!

[@cindyeversole8585]

Love your history and doodles!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Cindy!

[@suehay9945]

Love watching your videos, I get some great ideas and inspiration. I took up watercolour painting during lockdown, having put my paint brushes down many years ago due to children and work commitments. Now my son is currently going through chemo treatment, so painting helps me to think of other things. Which is a great benefit. Keep going with what you are doing, always a pleasure for me. Sue x

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Sue, wishing your son and your family so many good wishes for a swift recovery. Painting is very therapeutic m, I’m so glad it’s helping you with everything on your plate at the moment x

[@marionbainbridge4547]

Thank you I love your work . So relaxing to watch 😊

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Marion!

[@annehebert6959]

I love these brushes. They are so much better than what I was using before. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah brilliant

[@amandastratton8242]

Harriet, Thank you for a lovely tutorial. It was very interesting to hear how you started out on your journey and the painting was very inspiring xx

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much!

[@anitaevans8105]

Love your style of watercolour painting and your teaching. Your love of it shines through! Have ordered your first book and can't wait for it to arrive!!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah thank you so much Anita!

[@peggymurphy6747]

So enjoyable to watch you paint your doodle and listen to your journey. I found your book at library here in the U.S. I'm taking a watercolor class at our local arts center but since painting flowers is my passion and goal, your videos and books are perfect. Thank you SOOO much.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh amazing Peggy, thank you!

[@missylulu]

Harriet so lovely to hear you story, makes it personal knowing the back story.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks for watching!

[@lucychild2445]

Thank you Harriet for telling us your story. Like so many others, I’m relatively new to painting. I always thought the artistic gene had passed me by until 2019 when I took up a paintbrush and I’ve been painting ever since. Watercolour is so relaxing and watching you and some others on KZbin gives me inspiration and daily affirmation that I am more than I think I am. And I love this little “ doodle”. Have a wonderful weekend.👩‍🎨😁🙏

[@deWintonPaperCo]

That’s the perfect attitude Lucy!

[@carolyncibik8429]

Beautiful!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Carolyn!

[@s.terris9537]

It's nice to hear your story Harriet! I remember in my mid-thirties I also felt a need to shift to more meaningful work (it wasn't art). I think this is why I feel so drawn to your teaching. I am painting for enjoyment and to make gifts to friends, and also to continue my grandmother's talent. She painted beautiful china porcelain plates for all the grandchildren. Now at her age, I understand that was truly an act of love. Thank you!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh wow what an amazing gesture! So glad you’re enjoying painting!

[@ColorfullyOptimistic]

Thank you so much for sharing your journey. It was so inspiring

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You’re welcome!

[@darlene6969]

Harriot, finally I can buy your brushes.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah wonderful!

[@darleneplant.6284]

Thanks sharing your story, Harriet. I also love the doodle, it would make a great card.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Darlene!

[@Carina-2906]

Harriet thank you very much for this lovely video! I was hearing your story and I have to keep say thanks to you for all your time and effort to make this beautiful videos for all of us. It's so true how therapeutic your videos are. In my case I was passing through a difficult health situation and your watercolour videos are stil helping me to be calm and feel happy. I hoop you get all the happiness that you are giving us. Kind regards.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you Carina, I have always spotted your lovely comments over the years. I hope you’re starting to feel better

[@suzymulligan9784]

Thank you for sharing your story Harriet! You are a joy and encouraging to so many of us! I just created a watercolor studio for myself and grandson (3 yrs.) and our pup Scully ❤Give “Crum” a pat and treat for us!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh thank you so much Suzy

[@elainejarvis1863]

this was so wonderful listening to this. I don't think I'm brave enough or good enough, to make a business, but it certainly made me feel so encouraged. Like the lady commenting below, I am older but my family love to get cards from me. I have also found, good or bad, how helpful watercolour has been during the pandemic and at the moment having a daughter with an extremely high risk pregnancy, she and I facetime and paint together, her in hospital and me here!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Hi Elaine, I'm so glad you've found some comfort in painting!

[@malcolmdalrymple1779]

An informative video as always..

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Malcolm!

[@BarBaraWhorleyCrawfordESS]

I adore you. I found you after trying water colors, art at all during covid. You inspired me so much. Thank you my sweet teacher. Huge hugs

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah thank you!

[@sherrieleslie7478]

Thank you so much. Your so encouraging. Going to start a business plan this year.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Amazing Sherrie!

[@Angie-pl3uw]

Thank you, Harriet, for being here for us. It is a joy for me to watch you paint and then follow up with my own not very good attempts. I am a 77 year old woman who suffers from chronic pain. Discovering the world of watercolor changed my life from feeling victimized to one of happy fulfillment. I am not a very good artist, but I love color, form and it’s arrangement. I’m too old to move furniture around. But now I have all this glorious paper and color to move about. Thanks to you and all content creators I have classes at my finger tips. I shy away from Patreon memberships as I am not good at following "rules"!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah Angie how wonderful that watercolour has had such a positive impact on your life! Keep going and enjoying it!

[@ThomC]

Beautiful painting :) thank you for sharing! :)

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Thom.

[@robertadrsvensson]

Thank you, so helpful! Also I would like to add that I really agree on what you said about turning your passion into a career: I did it, although it was not painting nor art, and it drained all the life out of my passion and I really regret it, even though I learnt a lot, of course. Thank you Harriet, I really enjoy your book and channel

[@deWintonPaperCo]

It’s a difficult balance to strike isn’t it

[@tkkozeluh]

It was wonderful watching you paint and hearing your story. I am an artisan crafter and once upon a time I sold my beadwork and birch bark creations. I found that, as you said, something I loved and found fulfilling became stressful to always create, always find buyers. I’m much happier creating simply because I’m in the mood and knowing I don’t have orders to fill and buyers to find. I find watching you paint very relaxing so thank you for sharing your joy of painting.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

That is awesome!

[@jadedenthusiasms]

This is only my 2nd video of yours and both have honestly been EXACTLY the 2 things I desperately needed tonight! You brought me to tears on this one because I'm struggling with myself because I've only been painting off and on maybe 4 years, and hadn't touched art supplies before that, as much as I wanted to...long story :/ But, art saved my life, 100% I have significant health issues that don't always allow me to move or use my hands well (hopefully this big surgery this week will help some with that...we'll see) of be able to sit or stand too long. To its slow going. But I fell in love with it and I appreciate so much being able to come here on the many many days I'm unable to physically do the things I'd like, I can see this beautiful art being made and be so inspired, and it helps me to keep my head straight and as positive as possible and push through to enjoy the good days :) I've made so many cards for friends and family and have had requests for sets of them and different things...but I get embarrassed and can't bring myself to actually charge just for something I've made, so I just give them some and they wonderful too. But I would love to actually make a go at it. But I'm having trouble thinking I'm..I don't know how to put it..ummm..not worthy, but maybe not good enough? In my head I hear "Who do you think you are to think anyone would pay for that?!?" My husband bought me this domain name, my name is Jade by the way, hoping to give me a push to jump. I've just been up and down about it. I know I want to...but, even writing that, my hands shake and my heart flops. But I've had this name for a year this month and I've failed to jump...my goal is to do a blog, just as you said..speaking about chronic pain, emotional pain and how it affects us and how art, in any form of expression, saved my life, because I needed help and had a hard time figuring it out..im still figuring it out..but then maybe someone else could see they're not alone. I don't know..maybe that's dumb...probably is. But I also would like to maybe be able to sell cards or art to help with my ridiculous medical cots and life in general. We're freelance photographers and my husband is also a editor and writer but the car and truck magazines we've worked for in the past have closed down as has honestly all out work these last couple or few years. Just like so many are dealing with :( But I'm pretty useless, and my sweet husband works crazy hard to just keep a roof over our heads, and even though I know we're in big trouble financially, he'll still get me a paint here or there because he knows what it means to me. So to even just pay for my own paints and supplies would be amazing. But, I get in my head. So, this was really great...honestly! So sorry for this long thing😳🥺 I'm nervous about my surgery so I'm extra babbley as I try to keep my brain busy ;) But, I truly appreciate your hears work and help and encouragement, more then you know :) once I'm healed up, I want to make a go of it...if I can figure out how to get the funds for like enough paper and those things...but....I'll work it out because it's all I think about:) Thanks again!!!🥰

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Jade you’re doing so well and I’m so pleased that you’re getting lots out of the tutorial. Never apologise, its wonderful that you can share your story here. Keep painting and keep enjoying it!

[@susandarrington1736]

Hello harriet I have just started to use watercolour, you have really inspired me you are so clever, because I have just started I am not very good but I will continue to watch your videos and learn from them you are an inspiration love sue

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Ah Susan welcome! It’s all about enjoying the process and the rest will follow

[@Doggymomma52]

Your story is heartwarming. I love the fact you didn’t follow on the brushes. I use “whatever” works or what i have. Love your brush set. Love your painting ❤️❤️🎨🎨

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much!

[@annbevan8051]

I can’t tell you how much I’ve benefitted from the last two years and confess to feeling a little guilty about that because having found you and your channel I have come to find so much joy in painting watercolour. The most I’d ever done with a paintbrush has been restricted to walls and doors! I’m in my 70’s and now find so much pleasure in painting small, almost vignette, pictures - flowers mainly - and turning them into greeting cards, given that we weren’t able to go shopping for them. My recipients are very kind and I think they appreciate the fact that they’re hand painted. It means so much more. So I have you to thank for your inspiration and encouragement. So bless you. Huge thanks

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Ann, I like painting little things too! So glad you're enjoying painting!

[@rosemorales3135]

I went through loads of watercolor teachers and almost quit because I needed some sort of structure that I wasn't funding. I needed something tangible besides digital art. Then I saw your bees and lavender post a yr ago; around spring. Saved my way to your Cherry Blossom group in Patron. Your teaching is clear and one can see the enjoyment of your processes. I paint for my pleasure not for anyone per se. You're a blessing and I adore you Mrs H. There aren't words to express the gratitude I have for you ❤️ ❤️ ❤️. Feel better soon Crumble.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Rose, you are one of my biggest cheerleaders and I'm so grateful to you for that.

[@carolbarnard8906]

Great to hear the back story. Keep up the excellent work but always remember that the me time is very important.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks, will do!

[@kingfisherdesignsmetals]

I love to paint and it really is relaxing even when it turns into a mess. I know it takes discipline to keep on painting. As a freelance metalsmith it also seems to take discipline to lay down the hammer and do something else. Freelance work seems to be a bit of a tightrope, but your work, tutoring and books are such a gift.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

So true! It's great that you look beyond your job and pick up another creative pursuit!

[@craftingwithnatalia]

I'm just starting to learn watercolor. I'm 32 and I only ever painted as a child. I feel quite embarrassed to be learning basic things now, I know there are so many amazing artists out there but it gives me so much joy to play with the paints and see what happens. I was following your daffodil tutorial last night and it was so therapeutic to just sit down for a couple of hours and paint. I've got lots to learn, my painting looks nothing like yours but I'm determined to keep on trying! Thank you so much for posting these tutorials, it's so nice to have your guidance and encouragement! ❤️

[@deWintonPaperCo]

We should be learning something new at all times in our life! Well done for taking the step to get back to being creative

[@terriepasterchek74]

I’m so absolutely over the moon I found you Harriet! Your style of botanical watercolor is so appealing. Your videos are so easy to follow and understand. You’re left handed which i am and it just seems to sink in better. Your career story was most enjoyable and I’m delighted for you to have found your passion and get to make money at it. Sending you wishes of continued success and much happiness. I’m in the infancy stages of watercolor painting, but with patience and practice I know I will get the hang of it, thanks to you and your videos!! ❤

[@deWintonPaperCo]

I'm so glad to hear this Terrie! Keep it up and enjoy :)

[@jenscloset]

I love tennis too!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

It’s the best isn’t it!

[@marthastainton9535]

Harriet...I'm so very glad I've found you in my journey. I have turned to painting through COVID and really find joy in it!! I've started to think about my own business. Thanks for sharing your story. You inspire me to keep going! Thank you!!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You are so welcome!

[@codiuart]

Your watercolor painting tutorial is very easy to understand, it is very suitable for beginners like me. And the story you tell during the tutorial is also quite interesting, everything is almost perfect. I continue to follow you, waiting for your new videos.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks!

[@createwithasma7321]

Beautiful story Harriet.🌸 We have so much in common, love for tennis and painting. 💝

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Amazing! They’re a great combo! I’m off to play today!

[@nancye7520]

I started painting acrylics at 55 while freelancing as a marketing copywriter and graphic designer. I then got a f.t. corporate job and didn’t have enough time for acrylics and large canvases. But I needed a creative outlet! I started playing with w.c., and, you’re spot on, Harriet. As a raw beginner with no lessons, you can do what ever you damn well please with watercolor. 😄 and, I was able to tote the smaller w.c. ‘Kit’, as you Brits say, to work, eat at my desk, and use my lunch for splashing some w.c. paint around in a small notebook. You CAN do it! Just play, enjoy the color, practice your brush strokes and mix colors to your heart’s content. 💕 Thank you for sharing your start, Harriet. Keep an eye on your life-work balance, and stay curious.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Wow this is such a great way to find balance in a busy life!

[@carolynberlin124]

I so love your videos and was wondering about your background and how you got started in watercolor. A few years ago I did Tole painting but am now very excited to learn watercolor. I purchased your brushes which I received very quickly. Thank you! I think I have all I need to get started and cannot wait to begin.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You are so welcome!

[@Jessie577]

Thank you for this tutorial, it’s ver inspiring. I’m just starting out and am not very good but I love it.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

That’s the most important thing, it’s all about enjoyment!

[@artanupam7358]

Amazing👌👌

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks 😊

[@sallysewing]

Thank you Harriet! A lovely chat! I just wanted to say how right your comments and advise are. My main passion is sewing and in 2013, when I retired from a really quite pressured job, I decided to turn my passion in to a business. I now both sell my work and teach classes. But in the past year or so I rediscovered a second passion, and that’s for watercolour painting! I absolutely love it and am inspired by your work and story. Painting will probably remain my mindful place, but who knows……..?

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Sally that sounds ideal! You’ve been able to turn one passion into work and have another creative outlet for enjoyment!

[@cristinaferreira1713]

lindo... lindo... muito bonito

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks!

[@deb2413]

I retired and am really enjoying doing watercolor. I follow a wide variety of teachers with different styles. People have asked me about my selling my watercolors. I have always felt that once I started taking orders it would become work. I also can’t bear to repeat the same painting. I did about 100 Christmas cards to send to friends and that was quite a bit work. I enjoyed all the positive feedback. I really enjoy your work and am on your Patreon page. Thanks for sharing your journey.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Hey Deb, it’s always a risk to turn your passion into work. And particularly something your friends and family are asking you to do because it’s very hard to charge them the proper value. I think instead of reaacting to their commissions, create what you would like to paint and then see if they would like to buy

[@itsagogoforevermore2544]

A... it's like advice from a good friend. B... All you tutorials are so encouraging and you are a delight to watch. C...I love those brushes. Cheers from Salmon Arm BC

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Wow, thank you!

[@cathylambert7820]

So beautiful as usual, Harriet! Love it! Kisses from Belgium😘

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Cathy!

[@SheilaLandry]

Thank you so much. :) I found you when you made your advent calendar. I hope you do another this year. I love following you and plan on joining you on Patreon at the turn of the month. :)

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Oh Sheila thank you so much! I look forward to welcoming you to Patreon!

[@marthabridges9098]

I always enjoy watching your tutorials, Harriett. I bought the brushes from the Etsy store.❤ I am interested in learning how to paint moonscapes.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks so much Martha

[@juliacincotta8296]

I’m so happy that I found you I like the way you teach you make it easy I have done a couple of your paintings I’m up by 4am and by 6 I’m painting with you I loved the children s but with you I am able to start and finish thank you I want to order the brushes I’ll have to look them up I’m in Puerto Rico and on the other side of the island no art stores so when I’m in ny I buy everything I need and pack it up that you so much

[@juliacincotta8296]

It’s not children it’s chickens

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thank you so much Julia, I'm so glad to hear you enjoy painting with me, keep it up!

[@kimharbaugh]

I found you just last month and am excitedly awaiting my brushes so I can follow along doing the advent calendar. I love that you paint small because I mostly want to paint greeting cards to send to friends and family, thank you for sharing your beautiful art. I’d love to know why your husband is called Ant. 😊

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks Kim! He’s called Anthony so it’s Ant for short

[@gemmashannon8796]

Absolutely wonderful stuff! My biggest obstacle is my lack of confidence. Although, that is becoming less of a problem since starting to learn along with you on here and Patreon.

[@nancye7520]

Just play! Good luck to you and keep painting.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

You can do it! I'm so glad you're getting stuck in Gemma and facing your fears!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Absolutely!

[@kasiaio]

Hello Harriet, I love your tutorials, and have tried the snowman and snowdrops. I’m going to try the daffodils next. My grandma’s birthday is coming up in March, and her favourite flower is the wild violet. Would you be able to please, please create a tutorial on those beautiful flowers? Thank you so much for such beautifully done tutorials.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

How lovely. One of the perks of being in my patreon is you can request subjects for KZbin tutorials!

[@danaparsonsliquidcosmosart2669]

Synthetic brushes have come a hell of a long way and I love them cus no animal cruelty. Ps I need that tiny tiny brush.. like... Need!!! I'm only learning but I seem to flow toward miniature more often than not. So inspiring thank you!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

I have found the 4/0 size is great for all my tiny work but pro arte goes even smaller with 10/0!

[@GB-yn6np]

Hi Harriet, I love watching you too! It's calming as well as educational. Thanks for sharing your skills and passion. What paper do you use here?

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Yes! Thank you!

[@JoolieEm]

Hello, greetings from Poland :) I'm your big fan! Subscribed to your channel a while ago and been glued to your tutorials ever since. Just wanted to double-check if you'll stock up on the paintbrush set as I couldn't find it on your Etsy shop.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

They will be back in January!

[@jamesgreer3953]

You are so helpful to me. I'd love to do note cards. What is the best printers to use? Giclee prints are what I want to do as well as keeping my origionals. I'm a novice but love love art in especially watercolor. Caroline

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Hi Caroline, I can answer questions like these to anyone who signs up to my Patreon. Patreon is where you can ask all sorts of questions and gain access to my methods and trade secrets!

[@coastalcutie2000]

How much of what you do is instinct? This painting for example: how did you know what to paint? Did you guess as you went, or was there a general idea of what was going where? I love the freshness, the informal and unconstructed feel of it, so how much of it is thoughtful or just "go for it?" I doubt this makes a whit of sense, sorry. Long story short, I Love your work! Oh, and thank you for sharing your story, too!!!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Being able to ‘go for it’ comes with having general experience from years of practise and playing around which also creates good instinct. The best advice I can give is to doodle and play with watercolour as much as possible without too much focus on the finished result

[@avrilwright7690]

Hi Harriet - thank you so much for sharing your watercolour journey - I love your videos and have learnt so much. Is it possible to share how you digitize your artwork to put onto watercolour paper for a card - personal use? Or any other stationery. Any advice would be appreciated and the equipment you use. Thank you.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Hi Avril, I'm currently working out the best way to teach digitising.

[@janc734]

So I'm wondering how long have you been painting with watercolors? I started at 60 (now 64). Maybe you told us but I didn't catch it. and...I LOVE your videos!!! So glad I found you-you are an excellent instructor and talented watercolorist.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Hi Jan. I properly started watercolours 8 years ago but drew and painted before that

[@lemonade708]

Thanks for sharing your story Harriet, I've also taken the very first baby step on my freelance journey and yes, it is nerve wrecking not having a steady paycheck! Time management and self-discipline are also two things I'm trying to do better. You asked if we have questions and I actually have two of them. 1. Could you share more about your process in digitalising your artworks? And 2. What equipment do you use to film your KZbin videos? Thank you in advance!

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Thanks so much for your questions and congrats on starting out on the freelance journey! I think the answers to your questions require some actual video tutorials so I’ve made a note!

[@lemonade708]

@@deWintonPaperCo Thank you! :)

[@MyDaisy66]

I’m still at the very beginnings of learning Watercolour. I have both your books and a lifetime of your tutorials (Thank you 🙏)to get me to a stage where one day I can paint like you…almost. One question…what is the best paper to use whilst I am practicing. You mentioned, you would paint a flower over and over until you felt happy with it. That would be quite a bit of paper used. Is it still best to use the real deal as far as paper is concerned? 🌺

[@deWintonPaperCo]

I think it’s good if you can use good quality paper so you can see how much it helps. I sell a really nice affordable pad in my shop

[@Doggymomma52]

Tried to find your brushes and had no luck.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

They are temporarily out of stock while I’m on holiday until the 3rd March then they will be back

[@Sooz3112]

Beautiful painting 🖌. It's great that you stock synthetic brushes. Where did you get the name for your business please? Intrigued x

[@deWintonPaperCo]

It’s my surname!

[@Sooz3112]

🤦🏽‍♀️😂 Thanks x

[@mary-allisonobrien3136]

When you paint wedding invitations do you paint each one individually or do you make copies of an original painting?

[@deWintonPaperCo]

I paint one original (usually in a number of separate elements), scan them in and arrange with the text etc and then have a professional printer create as many copies as I need

[@123craftygal]

I enjoyed this so very much. It’s good to ‘know the person’ behind the scenes, the successes and struggles. I really liked not having background music this time around, I could focus better. Even though I’ve been painting awhile (I started with oils, now watercolor), I wish my hand was steadier and I wouldn’t get so darned frustrated with things. But I soldier on because I love art so much. Anyhow I love your YT vids, and I’ve ordered both books so I’m looking forward to that. Do you arrange your paints by the color wheel,or all blues, all reds, all yellows, etc? I have so many little palettes lying around I want to consolidate them and be able to work more efficiently. Thanks ☺️

[@nancye7520]

You have a good approach. Keep at it. 😃 I started painting in acrylics at 55, and I’m 64 now painting watercolor solely.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

I arranged my colours in a sort of rainbow format. I did this a few years ago but I still like it. But I think there is no right or wrong, it's just down to personal preference

[@deWintonPaperCo]

I love that painting is something we can all keep going with

[@jacquelinestubbe6010]

Hi Harriett, I live in the US, PA to be exact. I am having trouble finding your Patreon sign up. Can u advise. I have both your books and love your style and instruction.

[@deWintonPaperCo]

Hi Jacqueline, you can sign up here, have a look through the tiers and choose what kind of membership you would like: www.patreon.com/dewintonpaperco?fan_landing=true