How to Use Watercolors in Coloring Books | Paul Rubens Set Review + Step-by-Step Tips

🌟 Discover how the Paul Rubens QICAIHUI 24-color watercolor set performs in a Johanna Basford coloring book! 🎨
In this video, I share my thoughts on these beginner-friendly watercolors, demonstrate simple techniques, and show how they can bring your coloring pages to life!
✨ Perfect for anyone exploring watercolor in coloring books, journals, or sketchbooks.
🎨 Paul Rubens 24 Watercolor Paint Set:
US Amz: amzn.to/400RyET
CA Amz: amzn.to/3ZRycnb
UK Amz: amzn.to/3PiDwt8
DE Amz: amzn.to/3DP3YIg
📖 Coloring Book: Johanna Basford, Rooms of Wonder
US Amz: amzn.to/3OfdkPE
UK Amz: amzn.to/4fPTdDw
🖌️ Acrylic Gesso:
US Amz: amzn.to/4fBrA1m
🖌️ Brushes: Da Vinci brushes (Cosmotop Mix B 5530 no 6; Cosmotop Spin size 3/0, Nova-Synthetics 5570, size 2)
♥ Feel free to copy this coloring page for the purpose of learning. If you are sharing it on social media, please provide proper credit. Using this coloring page for commercial purposes or creating tutorial videos based on the colorings I shared is not permitted. If you have any questions or want to discuss something specific, please contact me on IG (black_aneri) or at [e-mail] 💖
00:15 Introduction to Paul Rubens watercolor set
01:30 Watercolor base on the jar
06:42 Painting the details
20:30 Mixing with gesso
36:37 Adding the background
55:42 Conclusion
💖 You can see what I'm currently working on:
INSTAGRAM: / black_aneri
TIKTOK: / black_aneri
FACEBOOK: / aneriscolour. .
PINTEREST: / irenah99
ETSY: www.etsy.com/s...
💖Music I Use: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music
License code: REX67MFJ5YHRR1EL
#johannabasford #roomsofwonder #paulrubenswatercolor

[@cazcaz2701]

I would love to see the whole page done as a series. So talented

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! ❤ I love the idea of making it a series. Definitely something I’m planning to do! 😊

[@PursuingHeaven]

Irena you are always such a good instructor not only explaining what you are doing but why. Thank you so much!

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your lovely comment! 🥰I'm really glad my explanations are helpful. I actually thought I might have missed a few things, but I plan to continue with this and will try to cover more soon! 😄

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

Yes true

[@lorraynecruz26]

I always love your watercolor paintings in coloring books.

[@blackaneri]

@@lorraynecruz26 So happy to know that 🥰 Thank you ❤️

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

Really 😮

[@cecilelefeuvre7517]

Your background brings it Magical. Love Cécile.

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much, Cécile! 😊 I’m so happy you like it 🥰

[@shanonbutler2393]

This is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. ❤

[@blackaneri]

Oh my 🥰 Thank you so much for this, I really appreciate it! ❤

[@rubyfisch5077]

That by far is the best art I've ever seen in a coloring book! And on such a small scale too! Fantastic!

[@blackaneri]

Wow, thank you so much!🥰 I really appreciate it! ❤

[@Blissfulthings]

I've put a clear watercolor ground on the pages,sometimes two coats ,this really helps 🎉

[@blackaneri]

That's fantastic! I haven't had the opportunity to try this yet, but maybe soon. I’d love to see how it works. Thanks for sharing! 😊

[@SewCrazi]

Beautiful work. How does the paper in that book look on the other side when finished?

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! ❤ I forgot to show it, but I'll make sure to include it in part 2, which I need to edit soon. Since it's all watercolors, the paper does buckle a bit, but that's normal when the paint covers only part of the surface. There's usually no bleeding through unless too much water is used. Taking it slow and working patiently really makes a difference! 😊

[@LeslyeMcCulloch]

You obviously love what you do, me too!! Thank you for sharing. ❤❤

[@blackaneri]

I do, and I’m so happy to hear you feel the same! 😊 Thank you so much! ❤

[@annsimonsen3273]

First time viewer. I never tried to use watercolor in a coloring book. A must try for me. I live watercolor. Thank you so much. Beautiful job.

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 Watercolor in a coloring book is such a fun way to experiment-you should definitely give it a try! ❤ Welcome to the channel! 🥰

[@Coloriages.de.suzanne]

Absolutely stunning! It is soooooo ice to see you complete an illustration from beginning to finish! Hvala puno ❤

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

Yes true 😊😊

[@blackaneri]

Hvala puno! ❤ I’m so glad to know you enjoyed seeing the whole process from start to finish!😊

[@melody_tune991simms]

Absolutely stunning ❤❤ thank you for sharing. So very helpful 😊

[@blackaneri]

Happy to know that! 🥰Thank you so much for your words! ❤

[@jjglasco8283]

Extraordinary talent. Love your work!

[@blackaneri]

Happy to know that! Thank you so much! 😊❤️

[@FloralHeart]

I love when you use those colors, it's like your signature! Beautiful, it was fantastic to watch! ❤

[@tiamarie2538]

Thank you so much for sharing this! I've always been intimidated by water color, but I think I can try it with your lovely instructions, tips, and videos.

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊You can absolutely do it-just take it step by step, and most importantly, have fun with it! 💕

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

😊 go for it 👍

[@Escudera_de_Roble]

😍👍 Irena, this is so amazing! I'm finishing watching now, and love everything about it! You create magic on paper: those emeralds and ocres, the light, the background, the details, are spectacular. I have the book and can't wait to start colouring this page, now that I know how to manage water on this type of paper! 😉🙏 Thank you so much for all these tips!🤗🥰

[@blackaneri]

Wow, thank you so much for your kind words! 😍😊 I’m sure your version will look amazing - enjoy the process and have fun with it! Thank you again for your lovely feedback! 🤗🥰

[@ChaSie2008]

I love it ❤ Im interested in how u choose your color pallets and if possible some more video’s of watercolors in coloring books 😊

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! Part 2 is filmed and coming soon, and I’m planning a video on choosing colors too! ❤😊

[@Nora-jt9zy]

Thank you for this tutorial ❤

[@blackaneri]

You're very welcome! ❤Thank you for watching! 😊

[@charityariverpixie998]

Loved watching this especially the background ❤, beautiful xx

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! I'm really glad you enjoyed it 😊❤

[@vashtiadajen7718]

Thank you for sharing. Beautifully done 👍🏽

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm glad you like it. 🥰

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

Yes😊

[@alicebeshay6124]

I am always happy to see you at work. It is very inspirational 👍🌷

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 😊 I'm so glad you find it inspiring! 🥰

[@ColoringaLatte]

This was mesmerizing to watch. Your skills are AMAZING! Thank you so much! ❤

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! ❤ It means a lot to me 🥰

[@dawntappenden1804]

Thank you, just love watching you paint, very relaxing and I can sit back and marvel at your skill 😊❤

[@blackaneri]

That’s such a sweet thing to say, thank you! 🥰I'm so glad you find it relaxing. 😊❤

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

Yes true 👍

[@crossstitchbutton]

Your work is amazing, I do hope you will continue to make more videos thank you. 😍x

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 😍 I’m so glad to know that, and I definitely plan to make more videos! Your support means a lot! 💖

[@debbielarcombe3320]

Thank you, this was fantastic, would love to see more❤

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! ❤ I’m glad you enjoyed it! I might turn this into a series😊

[@jenscoloringcorner]

Loved it!! Thanks so much for sharing!!! 🤗

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 🤗 I’m so glad you loved it 🥰

[@anabrown8646]

Beautiful would love to see more

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! Part 2 is filmed and coming soon! ❤😊

[@tanyaschmith9737]

So stunning thank you for sharing 😊i love love love the work you do in colouring books so gorgeous 😍

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your sweet words! 😊 I'm happy you do! 🥰❤

[@lynnetteboulanger4487]

Wow! This is so beautiful! Loved watching your video and Thank You for sharing!🥰

[@blackaneri]

That’s so kind of you, thank you 🥰 I really appreciate your support. 🥰

[@ksimpson3952]

Thank you for sharing!!

[@blackaneri]

You're very welcome! I hope you find it useful 😊🎨

[@MarySoto-sb4vt]

All I can say is WOW very beautiful you're an amazing painter! ❤❤❤😊

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your lovely words! ❤😊

[@ZarnazFahad]

Magnificent work! Love this!

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your words 🥰❤

[@ZarnazFahad]

@blackaneri you are my inspiration! I started using watercolour in my colouring books after watching you paint that magical globe page in Rooms of Wonder. You turned that page into a masterpiece! A true Wizard's room! Exceptional work!

[@blackaneri]

@@ZarnazFahad Oh, I’m so happy to hear that! 😊 I’m still working on that page. I’m a bit nervous about finishing it because I don’t want to ruin it, so I’ve been procrastinating a little! 😅 Thank you so much again 🥰

[@ZarnazFahad]

@@blackaneri I don't think you can ever ruin a page! Please share a short video whenever you feel like working on that page.

[@maureenmorley9555]

Wow!!! You are so talented and this was a super video!!! Thank you so much for sharing and demonstrating! I have always loved your pictures they are beautiful!!!

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 I’m so happy you enjoyed the video 🥰

[@Sadpanda079]

This is stunning work !

[@blackaneri]

So happy you like it! Thank you! 🥰😊

[@panther5031]

A fantastic tutorial. Thank you💜🌹

[@blackaneri]

So happy to know that ❤ Thank you!😊

[@HelenKuster]

Fantastic! Thank you😊

[@blackaneri]

You're very welcome! 😊Thank you for watching, Helen 🥰

[@deborahrobles7551]

Absolutely beautiful

[@liline2904]

C’est magnifique j’adore vos mise en couleur avec l’aquarelle . Merci de votre partage 🙏

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊❤

[@mishka0818]

I love this.

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! ❤😊

[@anaathy4506]

beautiful 🎉🎉

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 🥰😊

[@annet_ost]

Very beautiful! How do you do this, take the paint out of the cuvette and leave no stains? I can't do that. You did well!

[@quitecolorist8274]

Beautiful! I always look for your videos tutorials, love all, mix media and watercolor. Thank you! I look forward to the next❤

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words and support ❤ I'm thrilled to hear it 🥰

[@ang794]

I've thought of coloring books but didnt think the paper would hold up. I also have paul rubens and im definitely enjoying them. I have to give coloring books a try now. The hardest part for me is figuring out what I want to draw in order to paint. I ran to target after leaving this comment and got a book by the same author. 😂 I also bought the Alien Worlds by Kerby Rosanes because its beautiful. Might use Rosanes with color pencils instead.

[@blackaneri]

🥰 Coloring books can definitely hold up if you're mindful about using minimal water and layering slowly. It’s a fun way to paint and Paul Rubens is a great choice for coloring books. Alien Worlds by Kerby Rosanes is stunning and I’m sure it’ll be amazing with colored pencils! Have fun and happy painting! 😄

[@deelopez2154]

beautiful..did you prep the page before using the watercolors?

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 😊 I didn’t prep the page beforehand, I gained courage by practicing a lot 😊 If the paper is lighter weight, I usually recommend testing it first or using minimal water to avoid any issues. It’s all about experimenting and seeing what works best for the paper 🥰

[@ellyfranken6137]

Thank you so much for showing this. I would never have thought about mixing with gesso. You say it's not perfect but i see a masterpiece. I truly hope to see more video's from you :) I have one question, did you wet the paper first before you started painting the background?

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 🥰 And yes, I’ll definitely keep filming whenever I can! 😊 I didn’t wet the paper first because I was worried it might warp or get damaged. I just applied the paint directly to the paper and worked a bit faster-that’s all! 😊

[@ellyfranken6137]

@@blackaneri thx. I am going to try this technique in one of my miljon books, lol. Klara Markova, Gugeli might be great to.

[@nathaliegonzalez1037]

Un grand merci pour ce tuto, votre travail est magnifique. Avez-vous passé du gesso sur la page avant de travailler aux aquarelles et si oui blanc ou transparent ? Merci

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊I painted directly onto the page. Johanna Basford’s books have fairly thick paper, which holds up well with careful painting.

[@charlesmangum2100]

Transparent gesso

[@momohua84]

wow lovely! how thick should the pages be to be able to use watercolor? i have a cheap coloring book, the paper feels maybe 90gsm, single page with the back entirely black. i wonder if i can use watercolor on them. guess i'll have to try.

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 😊 This isn’t watercolor paper either, so it does buckle a bit, especially when a large area gets wet. But I’ve learned to watercolor carefully on any paper-it just takes practice. It’s best to work on small sections at a time, be patient, and let each layer dry before adding more. If you also use pencils, you can easily correct details on top once the paint is dry. And when working in mixed media, I’ve noticed that the buckled areas often flatten out as you fill in the page. So yes, you can give it a try😊

[@anitaholmes6824]

So beautiful.....it must be waterproof coloring book? Thanks for sharing!

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 😊 It’s not a waterproof coloring book, but I use watercolor carefully to avoid too much water, which helps prevent any damage to the paper. Thanks for watching! 💖

[@tezzcan1]

I know this video was to show the paints, which look wonderful. However I would have liked to see how the book held up after the painting was done. Was it a watercolour colouring book or just a normal colouring book?

[@blackaneri]

That's a great question! I forgot to show the other side in this video, but I'll cover that in the next part 🤗 When you paint carefully, there’s usually no bleed-through, and you can easily cover the other side with mixed media without any issues. Johanna Basford's books have fairly thick paper, but they’re primarily designed for pencils and pens, like most coloring books. If you want to use paint, you’ll need to accept that the paper will not stay perfectly flat, and there may be some minor bleed-through if you're just starting out. That said, paints have their own advantages, like faster coloring and vibrant results. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences. 😊

[@tezzcan1]

@ thank you.

[@robynbroderick6822]

Hello Irena So beautiful. When you use your acfyl Gesso with your pigment is that because you want an opaque finish. Can a white smooth acrylic work as well? Or will the acrylic paint not mix with the watercolor.💫💫

[@blackaneri]

Thank you so much! 🥰I mainly wanted to use Rubens watercolors for everything, but to cover the black lineart, I needed an opaque layer, so I opted for white gesso. White acrylic would work as well, as long as it’s water-based and becomes water-resistant once dry. This allows me to paint over it with watercolors if needed. Any acrylic or gouache paint is perfectly fine for this purpose ☺ I’d actually encourage you to experiment and find what works best for you, as you might discover your own perfect method for painting in coloring books.🥰 I have a few different techniques I use, depending on what I need for the project. I hope this helps! ☺

[@robynbroderick6822]

@blackaneri Thankyou Irena. Yes the best way is to experiment💫💫💫

[@katiefelgar7377]

Question I want to use my viva watercolor color sheets to watercolor in a coloring book would you recommend me treating the paper first with watercolor ground or not.

[@blackaneri]

If the coloring book paper is lightweight or not designed for watercolors, I’d definitely recommend testing on a page first or starting with small areas using a minimal amount of water. If it doesn’t work as you’d like, you can always switch to colored pencils and continue from there-no worries! 😊 It just takes a careful start, and testing is always a great idea to see how the paper handles the paint. Have fun experimenting!

[@KoiandlilyStudio]

Wowed 😊❤

[@blackaneri]

Oh, thank you so much! 😊❤

[@wendyashton5274]

How do you keep the paper from distorting?

[@blackaneri]

The paper will inevitably distort a little when using watercolor, as most coloring book paper isn’t designed specifically for wet mediums. However, if you use less water and work carefully, you can minimize the distortion. Johanna Basford’s books have fairly thick paper, which helps, but they’re primarily made for pencils and pens. If you choose to use paint, just keep in mind that the paper won’t stay perfectly flat, and that’s okay! 😊The vibrant, unique results with paint are worth it for many people. It all depends on what works best for you. 🥰

[@FrancesMarionz]

Stunning Art 🤩 maybe a soft classical music instead of that music over and over …l Thank You 💫

[@blackaneri]

Oh no, I was worried that some people might not enjoy the music! 😅 That’s completely understandable. I usually go with what feels fitting and pleasing to me, and since this is free music with a limited duration, I worked with what I had 🤭. However, there’s an option to turn on the subtitles, so you can still follow along even if you prefer to mute the music. Thank you so much for watching 🥰

[@FrancesMarionz]

@ no offense… I adore your art 🤍🕊️

[@blackaneri]

​@@FrancesMarionz Oh no, I totally understand! 🤗 Some people might find the music distracting if they need to focus. Personal preferences vary, and that’s totally normal. Thank you again for your kind words! 🥰

[@viridian4573]

​@@blackaneri I agree this music just didn't work. It was startling how much of a relief it was when it went quiet in the middle of the video. When the music restarted I almost walked away and abandoned the rest of the video.

[@loriayres7410]

Is white gouache just as effective as the Gesso?

[@blackaneri]

For covering lines after watercoloring? Absolutely! 😊 I just don’t have any gouache at the moment and wanted to use a technique with this particular set of watercolors. 🤗

[@fredkuxhouse8939]

Is the paper heavy enough to prevent bleed through?

[@blackaneri]

I have the UK version of this book and the paper is heavy enough to prevent bleed-through, but it does require careful painting. Using a minimal amount of water and a bit of patience will help you get the best results! 😊

[@amandamccallum6796]

How do you paint such tiny objects without going out of lines?! My paint is either too dry to do it or too wet.

[@blackaneri]

The size of the brush definitely makes a big difference. It needs to be a detail brush (I use a 3/0 for this). 😊 Even then, I sometimes use too much paint or go over the lines. But that’s okay! You can always fix it later by layering or going over it with another medium. 🤭

[@Loreli45]

the key is to use little water

[@blackaneri]

Yes, that’s true! 😊

[@TheHobokenArtGal]

Were you following a reference?

[@blackaneri]

Nope, this one came straight from my imagination! 😃 You might notice I messed up the shadows and highlights a little, but I like to think it’s just part of the magic. 😂

[@TheHobokenArtGal]

I agree, without imperfection we can't appreciate our wins. Your art has a special quality to it. Great Job!!