Flip Through my First Watercolor Sketchbook : It's Allowed to Suck, and So Are You

I filled my first watercolor sketchbook! Come check it out while I explain how I got here, and why we're allowed to be bad at things.
You can see my main channel ‪@loriphillipsceramics‬
And find me on Instagram under the same name.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Hey!! Just a couple things to clarify and reiterate real quick about the video: I do not think everything in this sketchbook sucks! Hence the thumbnail. Some of it I’m pretty happy with, (the good), some of it did not go at all how I wanted (the “bad”), and some of it’s literally just scribbles and swatches (the wtf?). Working all that out and learning your medium is literally what a sketchbook is for. This is all a very subjective opinion of my OWN work. And it’s from the perspective of someone who has been making art since they could hold a pencil (nearly 40 years! 😅) As stated in the video, I’m not new to art. I am new to watercolor. This is not meant to be a baseline for what’s “good or bad” for others to judge themselves against or compare themselves to. (Nothing is more subjective than art!) It’s meant to show you that no one is ever going to be happy with everything they make, no matter what stage of art making they’re in. Some of us will go through long periods of not liking ANYTHING we make. It’s ok. It’s human. Especially when you’re new at a certain medium. And just like some of my least favorite pages of this book are some of y’all’s favorite, I PROMISE you, there is work of your own you hate that others would absolutely love. Please please please believe that, and please please please keep making art! “The arts are not a way to make a living. They are a very human way of making life more bearable. Practicing an art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven's sake.” Kurt Vonnegut

[@dianeb5309]

If you think your sketchbook sucks, I should just quit now. They all look wonderful to me. Very neat and clean edges. You shouldn’t keep saying they “suck”! Oh! And love your little dinosaur❤️!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Noooo don’t quit! 😆 I guarantee yours doesn’t actually suck either. 😉 Even when it does, it really doesn’t, cause we’re learning. ….I hope that makes sense, lol.

[@lindsayknies8767]

It super frustrates me when artists say this. Like, I get that we’re all at different levels, but come on…it’s really discouraging for people who are new and learning

[@kayco3185]

I’ve been painting for a long time and my sketchbooks look nothing like this 😂 even my current ones are filled with marks, bleeds, blooms, rough edges sometimes running over the edge and down a few pages, they’re not cohesive or even coherent (I have pages of random words or letters) but they’re really helpful for me, it’s where I test and scribble and see what works or when I’m in the middle of a painting and need a vent. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else because you do things your way and someone else does it their way. My idea of a sketchbook isn’t the same as the person next to me but I’m not doing it wrong and neither are they!

[@k8marlowe]

I love your message and your self-deprecating humor. But, girl, please. That sketchbook is full of wins in my world. 😁😉

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha!! Thankya! I don’t hate EVERYTHING in it. And even the crappy ones were still a learning experience. But I’ll always have a self deprecating sense of humor, so I’m glad you appreciate it. 😄

[@emmelinesprig489]

I love seeing work an artist feels is sucky. It puts such a perspective on how we tend to perceive our own work much much much more harshly than others. I really enjoyed these little paintings and color experiments, thank you for sharing!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay, thanks!! I’m also always fascinated with that other artists criticize about their own stuff. I have more than one ceramic piece from other potters that I purchased at a super discounted price because they were “seconds” and supposedly have defects. I can NOT for the life of me find what the defects are supposed to be. Go figure! 😂 You never know what others will see in your work. (Or won’t see, lol)

[@bookscorpion]

*showcases book filled with whimsical, gorgeous tiny artworks* "these suck!" lmao i love the sentiment, but your art is beautiful!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha! Well Thankya!! To be fair, I don’t think they all suck. …..But some of them definitely do. And that’s ok. 😆 🤣

[@alyshiarobison2290]

I LOVE that you're not afraid of color with your watercolor.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! I’m never afraid of color. 😄 Oddly enough I’ve been using a ton of muddy neutrals lately though. 🤣 Go figure.

[@JoHenn]

I love this! I’m am ex- lawyer learning to paint. And fighting perfectionism induced self-criticism & insecurity ( even though painting grounds me and brings me joy ). I love your perspective. So much less intimidating than perfect sketchbook flip throughs even though I really like a number of your paintings that you do not like. Btw, rocks are hard to paint.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Awesome! Perfectionism is such a pain in the ass! I definitely battle it allll the time. Just have to remind ourselves it’s a sneaky little liar. ‘Done’ is always better than ‘perfect’. And yeah, rocks are surprisingly harder than one would think. I hope you keep painting! Sounds much more relaxing than lawyering. 😆 And thanks!!

[@wendycaldwell9454]

Do you have any tutorials you recommend?

[@LoriStartedPainting]

I’ll be mentioning one in the next video, but off the top of my head, I really enjoy @artbypaulclark and @mindofwatercolor ☺️

[@ninaorehek7983]

I wish my first paintings looked as good as yours do. They so did not! Painting has been my childhood dream. I am so happy that I have been painting regularly for the past 4,5 years. For the last few months the joy of painting has become more important than the result which is huge for this recovering perfectionist. Very much looking forward to your new paintings and videos!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you!! I bet those first paintings are better than you think! We’re all a little hard on ourselves, haha. I’m glad you are sticking with it. ☺️ And yes, the act itself should be what’s most enjoyable. Perfectionism is hard to overcome!

[@lynromero8002]

Where's the suck? Lol, I'm primarily a drawer and wc is hard. You're killing it. Can't wait for your next vid. 💕

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Aw Thankya! We’re all our own worst critic, aren’t we? 😅

[@Vivian_Alice]

I'm already a fan! I love your art, your sense, of humor, and your insightful and inspiring commentary. Thank you for sharing! I feel less afraid to do the things I love!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you so much! I’m so glad it’s given you a little boost. 😁

[@selmag5819]

omg birdies!!!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you so much! And yep, birds are pretty awesome. 😁

[@jenniek4617]

I think you have some very beautiful work in there. I like your attitude, we should all remind ourselves that failing is ok, it’s how we learn. Thanks for sharing!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Most definitely! Thank you! ☺️

[@OrlaStevens]

In awe of how cleanly you present your sketchbooks! I love how loose the 1:29 page painting is, super beautiful experiments 🙂

[@MAYAXLEY]

This is one of my favourite sketchbooks ive seen in a long time, the way you use watercolour is so beautiful

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! ☺️

[@firefly1013]

I love your eye for color and how you play in your sketchbook. I'm one of those "my sketchbook must be perfect" people and I struggle against that, and have for many years. Videos like this really inspire me to take more risks. Thank you! Subscribed. 🙂

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay, thanks! It’s hard to not want everything “perfect and pristine” when you get a shiny new sketchbook. 😆

[@felicific9641]

Your sketchbook is inspiring, love your use of color. And keep Beaker in your videos!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you!! And I don’t think I could keep her out of them if I tried. 🤣 Not without putting her in her cage while I film, but she’s used to being out all day and hates being put up, and I’m a softy, lol.

[@wendywhitley4611]

I love your work. Thank you for your encouraging message of keep the bad pieces and it's ok to suck. I'm just starting out on my watercolor (or any journey for that matter), and sometimes it's moderately ok and sometimes it's like a blind person came in an did something in my sketchbook while I wasn't looking. This gives me encouragement to go on. :)

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Woo! Thanks! So glad to hear that. Love the ‘blind person’ descriptive. 😂 Keep painting! We got this. 😁

[@TheBlackHatOutlaw]

Starting off strong! Yes, you absolutely are allowed to suck as is everyone else and I am so glad the art community is finally starting to acknowledge this! I think your work is beautiful, even things you consider meh or fails because you can still see the life in them (well, other than the dark colours one, thats... just some nice darks on a page, but still!).

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha! Thank you! ☺️

[@lizapixie626]

This is fantastic! Thank you for sharing

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it! ☺️

[@daminicat]

It's crazy how much you improved after just a few pages!!! Let alone by the end of the sketchbook 😭✨ It's also crazy how you can make things that bring delight and inspiration to others (and yourself) even as an amateur 💕 I LOVED the tiny blurry landscapes! And the "french fries" lol. Thank you so much for sharing 🙏🏼These reminders are so important 🌸✨

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you so much! ☺️ They definitely are!

[@sharonbennett2953]

WoW!! You are a great painter! Thanx for showing us your BEST paintings!! Keep it up, please!!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks Sharon! ☺️

[@stillarobyn]

I loooove that fall forest page! (Fall year long) Beautiful depth and colors! I just started my watercolor journey this year and I've been fighting the perfectionist monster in my brain. Some days it's hard to even think about playing with paints because I want to have An Idea. When really I'm learning so much just from trying. I enjoyed this so much, I'll be sticking around.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! And yeah, play is super important! That’s where most of the good ideas come from. 😄

[@LaLaLoopsyCutie]

your art looks perfectly fine you need to practice your confidence. you keep saying the art is bad, it’s gonna make people believe it. and that doesn’t make sales

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Oh, please don’t take me that seriously when I’m self deprecating. 😅 I promise I like myself. I just have a little Chandler Bing in me, haha. I don’t mind if I never sell paintings/prints. Just a hobby for now. I’ve been a full time potter for years, so as long as that keeps selling, I’m good. 😆

[@andysdestination8671]

Your sketch book with paintings looks Awesome. I know you will get better with your art. Me at 56 and I’m just started my painting and drawing. All I have to do is keep working on it till I get better on my art skills. Can’t wait to see more of your videos. Cheers 😎😎😎🔥🔥🔥

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks!! I definitely helps that’s I’ve been in art my whole life (just mostly 3D instead of 2D). Watercolor is so different than other painting though. Makes ya feel like you’re still little, haha. I love when I see/hear of people starting art later in life! It can be extremely freeing. It happens a lot in ceramics. People tend to get ‘sucked in’. Next thing ya know they are building a studio in their garage, haha. 😄

[@otherwisedelighted2825]

Your paintings are beautiful. I would love to see a "paint along" video from you. You have a great sense of composition and color.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! There will definitely be some of those. Thinking a “watercolor Wednesday” might be nice haha.

[@forAME11]

So glad you started to paint! Love your pottery. What a creative mind!!! Thank you for sharing!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️

[@christarayhilllemons6168]

Oh my! I feel like a kindred spirit. I am a fiber artist …a weaver for the last 20 years. Then covid changed something in me. I paint now and do collage. I love your journey. The boid is a beauty.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Nice! Going from 3D to 2D is quite a shift. I love fiber arts. I’ve only randomly dabbled over the years, but really enjoy crochet and needle felting. Happy painting! (And collaging!)

[@anitadavidson1266]

Yep, I worked back to front, I love that put your sketchbook on as your first. Your rocks painting appeared on my feed, so that’s where I started and subscribed. I find myself weirdly happy to have stumbled across your channel at its inception. You’re a breath of fresh air! 👍🏻👩🏻‍🎨🎨🖌️🤷‍♀️

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay! Thankya! ☺️☺️☺️

[@tabbyzap3747]

Omg these paintings are gorgeous!! Love your eye for detail when it comes to botanicals/landscapes!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Aw thank you! 🥰

[@kassfox8381]

I like how your parrot tries to destroy book along whole video 😂 Your sketchbook is amazing! I want to start watercolor to just to encourage myself to draw everyday 😊

[@LoriStartedPainting]

They have to get into everything I’m doing. 😆 And yes! Do itttt! 😄

[@notclagnew]

Great walk through and great reminder to play as an artist

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️

[@remsiclee]

i am SO glad you decided to post now instead of waiting!!! this was so inspiring🥰

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay! Thanks so much!

[@ApBarr345]

What an awesome first sketchbook! I want to try some of these! I have just started painting after years of no artwork. Thanks for the inspo

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Heck yeah! And thanks! 😁

[@jennyrobbins440]

Honestly, this has to be my favourite watercolour video and most helpful. Thanks so much for your encouragement!!! X

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you!! That means a lot. ☺️

[@pamelastoddard1]

What a beautiful sketchbook! I’d love my sketchbook to look as beautiful as yours. I’m feeling like I want to get my paints out again and start sketching and watercolor painting again. It’s been a couple of years. Thank you for inspiring me to get started again.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Do iiiit! 😁 ☺️

[@user-ft3qv4fx5u]

Loved this. I’m just learning too, and those perfectly finished sketchbook tours are intimidating.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! Don’t let them intimidate ya! Most of those people aren’t showing us their ugly paintings. 😆

[@whylal]

I really enjoy your work! I love the landscapes, how evocative they feel with the simplicity, and the vibrancy the fall colours are at 5:49 without the leaves feeling muddy at all even with the contrasting colours next to each other

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you so much! ☺️☺️☺️

[@AndiLynn]

Omg the birds 🥰 thank you for sharing! Your paintings are beautiful, and I’m excited to dust off my watercolours and play around today ✨

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! And heck yeah, gettem out! 😁

[@101NorthCoast]

I’ve been a painter all my life and have spent the last 5 years trying to be a watercolorist… and I suck… lol… but your videos are awesome and you should make MANY more! Love it 🎨🌈🌷

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! And I bet you’re doing a LOT better than you give yourself credit for. 😉

[@101NorthCoast]

@@LoriStartedPainting Probably, but as soon as I went back to acrylics and pastels I felt like a rock star! lol… and I now have a profound respect for watercolorists, so the time did serve to make me a better painter 😋

[@LoriStartedPainting]

That’s awesome 😄

[@CL0UD3D.]

From one watercolor painter to the other, I also found rocks to be really friggin hard so you're not alone on that front

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! It’s such a bizarre thing to be that difficult. 😆

[@valegen4998]

Thank you for sharing your journey with us, even if it feels rough and imperfect to you! It means a lot to be able to see also what other beginners feel are the shadows and the mistakes in the learning process ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

You are so welcome! I love seeing what other artists consider “fails” too. So much of the time I love what they think is a hot mess lol!

[@mightyponyimages]

I'm a watercolor artist, just starting ceramics! I totally suck hahaha! Your book is beautiful! Keep going, you are really good!

[@AC-cg3bv]

Oh my goodness this isn't bad at all! Love the way you play with colour ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️

[@theresamongan3479]

I love your honest appraisal of your sketchbook. Having said that, there is a lot of work put in to this sketchbook. It’s a beautiful record of your efforts and where you are right now with your painting skills. My favourite page is your little abstract landscapes but I love everything about your sketchbook. 💚

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Aw Thankya! I’ll definitely be holding on to it indefinitely. Despite the ones I don’t like (which are still important cause it shows a starting point) there’s a lot I do, too. 🙂

[@cathysander8343]

I love how you covered up your ‘fail’ with ‘cool black paint’. I usually cut out pages I hate (it’s my sketchbook 😎). Recently I finished a really cool sketch and ignored the little voice in my head that told me to wait to write the name of the B&B until AFTER I triple checked the spelling. I am keeping that one to remind myself to fight impulsivity when it comes to labeling my illustrations. Your sketchbook is gorgeous. I love your mini scenery. One of my best friends is a potter and I sent her your video. She will love it (she also does batik, beaded jewelry and acrylic painting). Thank you for sharing your beautiful sketchbook.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! I feel tempted to cut pages out of sketchbooks all the time, but have gotten better at leaving them in over the years. 😅 Half the time when you look back at it a few years later (or sooner) it’s funny how your opinion about it can change. Thanks for sharing! Hope your friend enjoys! ☺️

[@alwaysaprendiendo]

Love, love, LOVE your abstracts especially!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! 😊

[@AlbertInsight]

Embarrassing!? This is badass. You've earned confidence with this, and it puts you in the top 1% of watercolorists!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! I don’t know about “top 1%”, but I’ll take it! 😂

[@Clarachk]

I enjoyed this so much that I subscribed. I adore how you allow yourself to “suck” so graciously! Your beginnings in this journal are wonderfully inspiring.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you!! ☺️

[@drbettyschueler3235]

You have some really lovely pictures in your book. You also have some fantastic pottery.

[@sketchbookscheming]

Love your paintings! And ha ha ha, there are some chores I only get done when I'm avoiding other chores.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! And you and me both! 😅

[@conniecarey5118]

I like your style a lot, very colourful and magical

[@judynelson4119]

What a charming video! So glad it popped up on my feed!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks!

[@janc734]

Watercolors are tricky business for sure- I HATED them at first but now they are my favorite medium (especially with ink). Anyway, 5 years in (on and off) and I've learned a ton but still struggle. As a fellow ADHD'er I constantly jump into other mediums because I just HAVE to try them but I always return to watercolor as my first love. Bravo to you! Thanks so much for sharing- love all the different things you've tried and many are quite lovely! " Looks like french fries" cracked me up. Love your humour. Look forward to seeing your progress.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! I feel ya on the constant media jumping. 😅

[@WorldWideWebObserver]

Hi Beaker! I thought some of your florals were stunningly gorgeous! Your pottery is very beautiful too! Give yourself more credit…👍🏻

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️

[@Skinnychelle48]

Love all the different scenes on one page!

[@lets_follow_Jesus]

keep on going, i started too a few weeks ago with watercolor and it looks easy, but it is so difficult...i feel you! But there are some really beautiful paintings in your sketchbook!!!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! And yeah, watercolor is a tricky mistress, haha. But I think that’s also why it’s exciting. 😁 Happy painting!

[@simonettahelena986]

Absolutely beautiful! Thank you for this.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

You are so welcome! ☺️ Glad you enjoyed it!

[@elainedurgin1384]

Lovely, helps to see someone else not totally satisfied with their efforts. Inspires me to keep on trying!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay, thanks! Totally normal to not be happy with everything you make! Gotta appreciate the “bad” ones. You learn from them. ☺️

[@AleksdeArt]

OMG, I looove title on your tumbnail! I must subscribe.😆🤍

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha! Yay! 😄

[@pinkimietz3243]

Those are beautiful! I especially loved the one you called crap.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha! Thankya! 😄

[@spruceandsquirrel]

I love the authenticity! Keep it up! ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Always! Thankya! ☺️

[@thereisnodarkside]

What a delight. Thanks for sharing 🙏🏻

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! ☺️

[@verditerthistle]

omg ty for making this video!! your wisdom about creating is amazing, I definitely needed to hear that :) I LOVE the way you play with and use color - not just in ur watercolor but in your pottery too!! your mini landscape studies are so atmospheric, I think i’m gonna try painting some :> discovering a new hobby by avoiding doing something else is so relatable. me & the fam all have adhd so we’ve ended up collecting so many different art mediums and tools over the years lmaoo

[@verditerthistle]

also beaker is so frickin cute 🥹✨

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay, glad you enjoyed! Thanks!! A house full of ADHDers is a LOT of arts and craft supplies. 🤣

[@user-oj4td6vg2z]

Enjoyed your openness. Looking forward to hearing more!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya!! ☺️

[@mattmiller6973]

This was awesome. Love the commentary.

[@sayusayme7729]

Lovely, helpful to my adhd brain too. Really appreciate the share. Love it. Thank you I adore watercolours, but my nemesis as well, lots of mediums to try.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank ya! ADHD is totally a “blessing and a curse” situation, but the desire to change mediums constantly tends to help your art overall I think. One is always going to inform the other in some way. 🙂 Not so good for the wallet or storage space though, lol.

[@HeleneLogan]

Your work is lovely. Thanks for sharing!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! 😊

[@gayle8010]

Your painting style is wonderful. Keep on painting girl.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! ☺️

[@rottenbutterfly9675]

Oh my god I love your art so much ❤.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️

[@christinet9229]

Hey Lori, Just wanted to tell you, that left hand page at 5:52 made me softly exclaim aloud : "Oh, that's gorrrgeous! I have walked in that forest!" ^_^ :D. Thank you for bringing back a lovely, incredibly HAPPY memory of when my son was 2 yrs old ^_^. (He's now 26.)

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Aw thank you! That’s so wonderful. 🥰

[@sylviawiel5025]

I like your sketschbook realy so much!! Im inspired ...thank you ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️🙏

[@KMercure]

Thank you for saying you suck (sometimes)! I love your style and colour choices. It might be time for me to have a sketchbook for ‘sucking’ in too!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! And yes! We all need one. 😄

[@KatieCosmoArt]

I love your style and think this sketchbook is gorgeous, personally 😊 im going to try doimg some small scale paintings, im sure it will help take the pressure off!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

It really does! Thankya! ☺️

[@keariewashburn4680]

😂 I love it ❤ so much fun ☺️. Its all good !

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️☺️☺️

[@archmaiden]

The birdie is so adorable 😢❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

☺️🦜

[@ThatPaintingLass]

These are absolutely great. I love how much you experimented and how much color you use. I love how you taped off everything except swatches so it does look like mini finished artworks. I was never a sketchbook person because I always wanted to rip the “bad” art out. So I have a pile of paintings in the order that I made them. Every once an a while I go back to the beginning and I just marvel at how far I’ve home. I’d you have a channel for your ceramics? I love watching potters while I paint. I would love to follow you there too.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! I have a friend who would do that with sketching. He said he always refused to keep a sketchbook and instead used a clipboard with loose paper so he could just throw away anything he didn’t like, and I was like NOOOO! YOU NEED THOSE! 🤣 I do have a “main” channel @loriphillipsceramics I’m not a consistent uploader, but I do what I can, haha.

[@ThatPaintingLass]

@@LoriStartedPainting I will say thinking of looking back on how well things end up turing out, does make me want to keep the messy ones. When I’m planing a big painting i start with small thumbnails then do a preliminary 3-5in sketches to refine. then I do a 1/2 size of what the finished piece will be and do color, value and texture experiments. These all I do on the backs of messed up paintings or on cheap paper so I’ve always tossed them. I really want to start saving everything now. I never felt like anyone would ever want to see it and maybe no one else will but thinking in decades, I think I would love to look back on how hard I worked to create those bigger paintings. Also all the other things, failed tries, the paintings I thought were great and then realize they were just not. I can see the value in it all now. Thank you for the inspiration!!!! I’ll go follow your main channel too.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

So true! And really relate to thinking something is really good at the time, then going back later and thinking “Yeah, not so much.” 😂 I think that’s also a sign of growth though. Thanks!

[@marykimnadar9391]

You say “meh,” and I say “that’s awesome, wish I could paint like that.” But love the reminder to not worry about sucking.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha, thanks! Ya never know what other people will see in the work you don’t like. It’s actually pretty fascinating. 😄

[@AndreaCrisp]

What? Totally does not suck. Your years of doing pottery likely influenced your ability even if watercolor is new. Regardless, first video, new sub. I love you! Funny, inspiring and the perfect amount of vulnerability and cussing for me. Excited to see more. I am currently learning watercolor and with my non dominant hand, because MS has given me nerve damage in my right hand. So I’m really starting from scratch. It’s helping me learn to let go and just enjoy the process,but I am starting with abstract since it’s easier given what I’m up against.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! ☺️ Having a lifetime of art already under my belt definitely is a leg up, that’s for sure, haha. Still sooo much to figure out though (which I really enjoy). Learning with your left hand sounds SO tedious! Major kudos for not letting the MS stop you, even if it slows you down. That’s awesome. 🩷

[@Samahra01]

Your art is absolutely gorgeous❤❤❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! ☺️

[@ImeldaFagin]

That was fun. I’m not going to contradict you by saying some of the paintings you didn’t like , I did like. You make your own judgements and you sound strong enough to keep at it. Enjoy the journey.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! And you’re totally allowed to like them. I like that I learned from them, so they are still important. 😄

[@AliMacDonald1]

Thats sooo good for a first watercolour sketchbook! I’m off to go dig out my buff titanium and do some mixes, I loved those ones you made, so earthy and natural! I also loved the misty forest you gave a “meh” rating to 😂 as the old saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you!! I do think it helps to have been involved in art my whole life, but yeah, watercolors can be a finicky mistress. It’s so easy to overpaint and then hate it, haha. 😅 And I feel ya on trash/treasure. So often it seems an art friend or someone I follow shows something they aren’t happy with, and I love it. 🤣 SO common in ceramics too. If you have an idea in your head of what you want something to come out like, and it comes out of the kiln differently, it’s hard to let go of that disappointment. And easy to forget that NO ONE else knows it was a “mistake”. Humans make things so complicated, lol.

[@AliMacDonald1]

@@LoriStartedPainting totally with you! I too pick my watercolours up every couple of years, get frustrated because I can never get the loose washy look I aim for, then pack them away again. But last year when I got them out, and was showing my daughter my once again “failed” attempts, she thought they were fab. instantly took one to put on her wall, and just said that loose clearly wasn’t my style, but my style was still art, and who made the rules that watercolour has to be loose anyway? I thought, yeah! She’s right, and from then on I’ve just gone with the flow, and my watercolours haven’t been packed away again!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thats awesome! 😁

[@roscotrigatoni655]

Thank you. Great video. I’m just learning to paint and draw on my iPad. Can't justify buying art supplies just yet. I’m 74 and was a potter for 35 plus years. I find 2D very scary. Though pottery is a long and potentially exasperating art, I truly enjoyed the instant satisfaction of a well done freshly thrown piece. I’m in awe of people who can paint!! You really don't suck at all. ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! Awesome finding other potters here who also started getting into 2D. Don’t be scared! “It sucks” is the worst case scenario. 🤣 And then ya just do it again. Pottery is so full of potential disappointments that aren’t even always in our control. (Once had a relay malfunction that held the kiln at temp for houuuurrssss! I’ve never been luckier for work to come out different but still ok. 😅) Buy the art supplies! Doesn’t have to be the pricey stuff right away. 😁

[@roscotrigatoni655]

@@LoriStartedPainting Thanks for the encouragement. Yes, I will buy art supplies eventually.

[@KetchupCanvas]

I think drawing even when you aren't good at it is such good advice, especially since I am a perfectionist who needs to be good at everything right away all the time or what's the point? Lol but seriously I needed this reminder so thank you 😊 also your birds are so cute! ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! And I know that feeling! 😆

[@TheDabshear]

Love following your journey! Keep going….

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you! Will do!

[@judyferguson3185]

Thanks so much for showing your journey. I haven’t gotten or 1st gear, BUT I have enough supplies to fill a museum🤣🤣🤣. I always do this when starting something new, I guess that way I know I will be prepared 😬😕. And watercolors are scary to me because of their unpredictability. Thanks again❤️❤️❤️

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks!! I have my fair share of hoarded art supplies. 😅 And embrace unpredictability! Just as much as “accidents” can can go wrong, they can go REALLY right! 😁

[@charlottesmom]

That’s funny, I was into pottery first but due to not being able to get to the studio very often it was turning into a big waste of money. I decided on painting as a new hobby and watercolor always intrigued me. I love this flip through and your narration was very interesting to me. Loved it!! ❤ **Your cockatiel and parakeet are both gorgeous too!!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Nice! Thankya! Yeah, pottery definitely demands a ton of dedication. (Or, be a very expensive hobby!) I think watercolor still holds some unpredictability, and is much easier to do in your living room, lol!

[@charlottesmom]

@@LoriStartedPainting Pottery is fun but the messiest of my hobbies. I can’t wait to get my own kiln someday (saving my pennies) I have gotten into using grogged low fire (cone 05/06) clay and am going to TRY to fire it in a pit fire….should be fun and interesting to see if it works.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Ooh, good luck! Pit firing is so fun! So many things can affect the surface. One of my former studio mates was experimenting with sagar firing (very similar) and was doing things like wrapping copper wires around her work before firing, etc. She read about certain cat food ingredients effecting the surface and wrapped some kibble around a piece with tin foil. Came out with these little X’s and O’s ghosted across the surface. 😆 Lots of fun to be had!

[@elainekaegi814]

Thanks! So inspiring. Love Yr honesty and adore each of Yr failures! 😊

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! 😁

[@puneetkaur7778]

I love the voiceover more than the paintings. 😂 And the paintings are beautiful too ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha! Thankya! Glad you enjoyed it. 😁

[@sketchbookscheming]

Loved your tour! Your mix of small and larger paintings looks really cool. While your art isn't sucky from my pov, I like your message too. 😀

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks!! We are all our own worst critic. 😆

[@sherbidabbles]

Imposter syndrome is real -- your paintings are fuckin' gorgeous. I love them all. I gasped when I saw your fall-all-year-long -- so rich and vibrant!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! We’re all guilty of the ol’ imposter syndrome from time to time, unfortunately. Keep painting! And definitely don’t judge yourself based on the planner paper’s poor handling of watercolor. 😄

[@peachy2.0]

Fab sketchbook ❤

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya!

[@shannasisak]

First sketchbooks are so fun to go back and look through. I am so glad I have my crazy ugly ridiculous early sketchbooks. They really make me laugh and bring me joy even though the art is absolutely terrible. Loving your uninhibited talk..... keep those F bombs coming LOL!

[@shannasisak]

and OMG your bird is cracking me up!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yes they are!! I still have stuff I did in high school over 20 years ago. 😅 And thanks! I figured might as well be my uninhibited self right off the bat so people know what they are getting into. 🤣

[@sjane7229]

Love this!

[@laurawilson-hutt4452]

I found this really motivating. Thanks for sharing

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Yay, thanks! 😁

[@queenbuzybee4074]

It’s lovely!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks!! ☺️

[@cloverfields6339]

i think details like the tape and other accidents add charm and character to it. at 1:34 the tape adds a textural contrast the the painting itself which is pretty cool

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks! I agree. I’ll probably leave it there indefinitely, unless it starts getting goopy and weird, haha.

[@melissaking-dg7ie]

So great. The work and the video. 😂😂 Calling all artists, go forth and be sucky!!

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Haha! Thanks! 😄

[@anoncat]

Love your sketch book.. Hope for your next video clip😊😊

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thanks!!

[@Soapartisan875]

Your sketchbook is amazing 😮 you haven’t seen mine lol just color blobs . You are very talented .

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thankya! Dont underestimate color blobs! 😄

[@twozsinapod]

What a beautiful sketchbook! I love all your layered florals. The page with a mix of red, yellow, and green trees might be my favorite! Have you tried gouache? Your style in a lot of these paintings makes me thing gouache would suit you very well.

[@LoriStartedPainting]

Thank you so much!! And I LIVE gouache! But I only have a set of some super cheap student grade, and it’s kind of a pain to work with cause it’s just…not good. 😅 But I have one tube of Windsor and Newton white to use with the watercolors sometimes, and MAN what a difference good gouache makes! I’m hoping to get a set of theirs soon. 😁