Watercolor Over Graphite - 5 Reasons I'm in Love With This Art Technique!

[@todd.mitchell]

First time I've heard the graphite's effect on the watercolor pitched not as a bug but a feature. Very helpful! As always you inspire me as a master who still loves his craft. Thanks.

[@robinsartsandcrafts6500]

I always tell my students to avoid graphite as much as possible under watercolor. It’s a good thing I also tell them to break all the rules because this is fantastic! I’m guessing colored pencil would resist the watercolor. What a game changer this is. Thank you for always giving such great advice and tutorials.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Colored pencil will resist but there are enough micro spaces for the wash to go through and soak into the paper, so it works fine unless you burnish the colored pencil which blocks the surface almost completely.

[@larrygrenier621]

Thanks!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thank you Larry!

[@franmenley6357]

Thank you !! This is so helpful!

[@marybrandenburg4867]

Beautiful. I like the graphite and water color together

[@HarpBaldfellow]

I have used this approach for a full landscape/seascape painting where I had a fully developed drawing then glazed over with watercolour. I tried this after seeing Mario Robinson using a grisaille as the initiation for his watercolours (though his grisaille was painted using a gray mix of ultramarine and burnt umber). I wasn't sure it'd work with pencil, expecting perhaps the pencil would act a a resist to the watercolour, nor had I realised that other people do this. I thought my result was good (the painting sold, so others must have thought so too!) I think, as you suggest, this would be a great method for beginners, but it's also an approach that those more experienced should experiment with too.

[@joannebindell2295]

You are awesome to watch and talking out your thought process helps me succeed without fear.

[@greaterfaydark9428]

I had to buy these brushes. They are just so different then any brush I've used. It looks like a joy to paint with.

[@sandyvobian2090]

where do I find these brushes? just have to have some !!!!

[@carol2duett]

I’m grateful for your insight. Thank you for sharing.

[@AnimalArtbyTerraCotta]

I was always avoiding putting too much graphite on my paper when I watercolor, but very appreciate how you not only demonstrate but explain what you're doing. I never thought of graphite as a toning element! Gorgeous swan, Steve 🤩

[@keepyourshoesathedoor]

I do that often but when I’m at school, my professors (except one) hate it. I love how it looks. I also like it with color pencils or ink (like a pen). It’s fun and I never care if it’s in the lines or not. It’s so fun.😩

[@rmartino0913]

Ironically I accidently stumbled on this at the beginning of my art journey at 53 when I did a graphite sketch from a photo I took at Fallingwater. When I was done I wondered if I could enhance it a bit with some subtle watercolor. It is one of my all time favorite accomplishments. So excited to see you intentionally take advantage of graphite and watercolor!!! You are one of my favorite artists to watch and listen to … your voice is so calming and instructive!!!

[@ninner196]

Beautiful!😊

[@kyliemartin8524]

Oh. Your love of what you do is so appealing to me. So encouraging. Thank you so much for this beautiful demonstration. Your work is outstanding. 🙏🏻

[@janinegaylard9233]

I used to love graphite and wash when doing botanical field studies but you reminded me how much I prefer the technique and don’t have to keep it just for the field! Thanks!❤

[@caroles5258]

That drawing/painting is gorgeous. I started noticing this when I was drawing with the idea of doing a watercolour painting, I felt pained to not put in the detail with graphite. This is perfect for me.

[@FernandaPedrosoCS]

Omg I'm working on a project for college and I wanted the painting to depict exactly that vintage feeling and I was so worried about erasing the graphite. Thanks to you, now I know that that's exactly what i wont do.

[@louisebacon-ogden5032]

I LOVE to draw. Anything in black & white is my favorite (including pen & ink and scratchboard). However, for a long time I have wanted to do water color. I am so happy that I became proficient with drawing. Seeing watercolor OVER a drawing really helped me to learn watercolor. Sometimes, I am afraid to mess up my drawing by adding paint! Just painting was so hard for me because I wanted to add detail using the watercolor and 9 times out of 10, I made a mess. I hope to be 1/2 as good as you! Thanks for your lessons and demonstrations!

[@karenturner-cf7vq]

I use this technique quite a lot, I think this technique can vary in a picture, your demonstration is quite nice. Thankyou

[@suev1520]

This blew my mind…honestly glorious….thank you so much for sharing your skill as always ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️💞💞

[@patriciatulinski7332]

Thank you Steve. My favorite way to paint especially animals. Great demonstration and refresher for me. Thank you so much!

[@colleenmcchesney1482]

That’s absolutely stunning with the drawing & painting. I have been doing something kind of like this but never realized that it was a technique that could be used. Thanks for sharing this process with us and continuing with the inspirational video. Have a great weekend Steve!

[@MoiAussie1]

It’s such a shame we are influenced by the watercolour purists. So many channels are now showing young women making a living from the most simple techniques we would shun.

[@SheilaLandry]

I really love this technique. Thank you for sharing it with us. I am going to give it a try. And the result is absolutely beautiful! :)

[@artieross9537]

What can I say? Wow! Stunning!

[@jdschneider5858]

Brilliant! I love the look of the muted color. Perhaps because of the tinted graphite that companies are making, it seems very appropriate to use watercolor over a substantial pencil drawing; it used to seem "inappropriate." That was not the way to use watercolor. But I gotta try it! Thank you so much for not listening to "them!"

[@JOSEPH-vs2gc]

i remember having an unfinished graphite drawing for art school and the deadline was 30 minutes away. I scanned the drawing into photoshop and tinted it with a sepia layer. I then printed it and handed it to my teacher. He did nothing but gush over how pretty it looked and gave me a passing grade. Sad thing is i've worked harder on other projects and didn't get the same positive reaction from him.

[@charlenewallmark1187]

I have been learning how to play with watercolour for about 2 years now, and lately feel like I've hit a plateau in my interest and ability. However I saw a video about watercolour over graphite; basic wash over lines, like pen and wash. But this video has blown my mind. I too love drawing and love watercolour. Eureka, I have found a new path to explore. Thank you all the way from Canada for this video and this goose!!

[@hannabeckwith1398]

Lovely. I see many watercolor artists trace the outline directly from a picture. Very nice to see that you draw for real.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks for noticing. Probably my favorite part.

[@DurgaPrasad-fw4sg]

I like the sentence you spoke is training the eyes ,it must .

[@melodyenglish4730]

I would love to see more of this style. I've been wanting to learn more, but there is so little of it on youtube.

[@jennyforeman4844]

This is fabulous. I must give it a try. I have heard of it, Grisalle, I think it was called. Thankyou

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes pretty much. Grisaille has mostly been used as an oil painting term but same idea.

[@leojablonski2309]

Quite beautiful.

[@karenturner-cf7vq]

I do that technique... it was interesting to see someone do the same technique. Thankyou

[@raed3063]

Awesome. Love it!

[@karenjohnson6487]

Beautiful painting. I enjoyed watching. Thank you.

[@terrythompson1564]

Steve...I want to try this technique, yours is so beautiful, but you didn't mention whether your paper is hot pressed or cold pressed. I'm new at all this but have seen the difference in texture and how the paint application on each one is different. Thanks for reminding your followers (me) about a detailed pencil sketch, it makes me remember that it's hard to get clear, sharp detail on a rough surface.

[@lorraineclark3517]

A great technique to combine detail drawing with a w/c wash

[@sketchingjohn1678]

It's almost like using a grisaille in oil painting. As you said, you solve all your value issues before worrying about the colors. Thanks for the nice video.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Yes, exactly. The difference being that you can easily correct or modify the drawing if you haven't watercolored over it yet (which sets in the graphite). This also lets you leave areas white where detail isn't really necessary and then be able to erase all the graphite in those portions

[@rebanelson607]

That was amazing! I couldn't draw a goose if my life depended on it but adding detail to abstract drawings could help with decision making while painting. Thanks for the inspiration!!

[@larrygrenier621]

Rewatching this one because I'm interested in this technique. I wish I could find a brush that is thickish but comes-down to a fine point and doesn't break the bank like the one you are using.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Take a look at Princeton's Aqua Elite Long Rounds.

[@RosaNicolosi-v7r]

this is beautiful! Thank you Steve so very much.

[@maryjohnson8424]

Quite some time ago you reviewed pencil sharpeners, you mentioned you would update us reguarding the dependability over time of one specifically…

[@mindofwatercolor]

So far so good.

[@OkieSketcher1949]

Move over Audubon there is a new artist in town. I really like what you have shown us. Tomorrow I will give it a whirl. It might not be a bird, but I’m sure I can find something that will work. Thanks for this one.

[@mindofwatercolor]

Have fun!

[@awatercolourist]

A beautiful technique and an even more beautiful painting! I’ve seen this in only one other video here on KZbin. For those interested, I think it was Oliver Pyle’s channel. CORRECTION: it is Smoothie77, not Oliver Pyle who paints in pencil and wash. Sorry for this confusion.

[@MaxfieldMini]

Ohhh, I love Oliver Pyle too! And Louise De Masi, Lois Davidson, Ganesh Hire, Liron Yancosky and so many more. Maybe it was Smoothie77 kzbin.info/door/mFD5CqShz-qI5xV0_JWV7w Be warned, his voice has the Bob Ross effect 😌🤤

[@mindofwatercolor]

Oliver is quite good. Didn't realize he did this.

[@awatercolourist]

Hello Stephen, actually, it was Smoothie77, not Oliver Pyle who paints like you do in pencil and wash. I shall correct or delete my earlier comment to avoid confusion. My apologies for his error.

[@mindofwatercolor]

@@awatercolourist ah that makes sense. He does a lot of pencil work. Haven’t looked at his channel in awhile.

[@eileenvalachovic9435]

As someone who's first love is sketching, thank you.

[@athieliagriffin7957]

Absolutely love this idea! Great teaching. Love illustration and this is easier than with a pen. Thank you!

[@larryglatt2548]

Like Colleen I have been doing this on & off but feared committing, you have now reinforced my belief in this system, thank you very much.

[@alicethemadrabbit1842]

Great video! I love drawing and also found watercolor just so fun. I never felt like I cared to used watercolor on it's own or as the main part of a work, so I try to find ways to accent my drawings instead. I found I reach for water soluble pencils before pan sets for that reason. It's awesome to hear someone else is on that same journey and to see how they accomplish that combination.

[@CFord-wu3in]

Great concept!!!

[@SerenWen_art]

Great idea combining the two, I’ll have to give it a go! I generally prefer drawing, but it’s nice to splash some paint about now and then!

[@mymagickalautisticjourney]

You've completely inspired me with yet another video. Thank you.

[@francescadicamillo6875]

I just discover this technique and this video is very useful! I love the vintage look of this technique.

[@nattyw495]

This is my favorite technique ever....

[@victorialeif9266]

I started a drawing in pencil, and it has a lot of detail, and I’ve been a bit anxious about finding a medium that will work well with it. The background has a depth of field, out of focus quality, and watercolor was what I wanted to use for that part of the picture, so I’m glad to see that it will probably work out!

[@CupCaked]

Absolutely beautiful video. One of my personal all-time favorite watercolors is one I did, almost by accident, of watercolor over graphite. Thanks for qualifying this technique, Steve.

[@tinakoyama8258]

I really appreciate that you do this technique because it's fun! Why would we do anything in art if it weren't fun? The world is too full of the un-fun as it is. Thanks!

[@robertberg8463]

Wow. That's incredible.

[@reneemizgala4204]

wo Derrik! thanks for sharing this experience

[@vickylaw659]

thanks a lot, I enjoy very much to learn from your painting…

[@DesignsofValue]

This is so intriguing Steve, I am going to have to try this soon!

[@soniatrainor7310]

I love this! I love the vintage/sepia look!

[@watercolourworkout2383]

Just yesterday I did a graphite pencil sketch of a swan. It was from a tutorial. Now I shall also paint it 🙂

[@AngieBurleigh]

I just ❤this. More please.

[@susanmulno9570]

Beautiful painting! My favorite has always been graphite drawing with pastel, it comes out looking very much the same as your goose here.

[@trishbrown3285]

I love this technique the description of why you use it. I am a 2 year beginner and plan to use it even more now. This painting is inspirational.

[@WatercolorElisabetta]

This is absolutely brilliant! I do it sometimes but I felt guilty because I felt like cheating or doing something unorthodox and almost forbidden. Thanks a lot this video is an eye opener!

[@mindofwatercolor]

Thanks! I understand the feeling but don't worry, it's actually a pretty standard technique. The "cheating" mindset is way too common and just silly (forgive me I'm not picking on you). It was started by amateur artists on social media seeking to bash other artists and prove they're better by making art in more skilled (supposedly) and difficult ways. Professionally it's such a non issue.

[@WatercolorElisabetta]

@@mindofwatercolor thank you so much for your reply.

[@dosquats]

I really saw the Tips in this peice - which made this a great video for me. Thanks SM

[@ashleyevans3330]

I love love love this!!!❤

[@maineiacts]

Wow!!!!!! So Goregeous,,AND..., I you said exactly what I was thinking! INDEED!! The MIND of..! I Absolutely ADORE Graphite/ Pencil/ Charcoal drawing and sketching. But something about this technique and Pen/ Ink..MAGICAL! I get to the point where I am to lazy to color something with wet pigments, because I like the B& W tones, or Sepia...etc.. As I was watching you add the beginning brown tones I thought, WHOA! That right there is Perfect!, just as you were saying how one could render the image..!! Cool! Thanks So Much!! I'm self taught and learning from WONDERFUL FOLKS LIKE YOURSELF!! Its made my dream of higher learning ( thst I could not possibly afford) Way more accessible and beyond!! I've got hundreds or more of migratory birds for reference material from my own photos!! I really need to go thru that treasure trove and work on critter art! Right now its Botanicals, Zen doodles, and occasional animals.. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS, and YOUR TALENT SIR!!! 🎨✍👍🤗💖🙋🏻‍♀️

[@cherylbrewer1218]

Just beautiful. Thank you so much for 😊

[@deejay2838]

LOVE THIS STEVE!♥♥

[@RicheUK]

Great technique and Wow, a stunning drawing & painting Steve,

[@DiRidpath]

This is gorgeous! I love your work.

[@kathycorbin6038]

I love this! Its what I've been wanting to do but didn't know what to do or how it would turn out. Thank you!

[@macclift9956]

Lovely!

[@MYR-mi1vi]

Big help for beginners, I followed your video today and created a nice painting, thanks so much!

[@bonnieg4076]

Great idea. I will try this next. Thanks for another informative tutorial.

[@B1ackDahlia767]

This is gorgeous, Steve. This is the technique I probably utilize the most.

[@kathrynedickinson6306]

Just beautiful!

[@mikepetersen7319]

Looks very Live like Steve. Generally I like all Your Paintings, but I think You really have a Talent for Birds. 👏

[@mickhamilton8385]

Nice work 👌.

[@scmarinemom24]

That is gorgeous!

[@danielquebedeaux1835]

Thanks for the video! You've inspired me to try this technique

[@morgansmith1930]

How cool! Thank you so much for sharing; I'll have to try that! Also, thank you for the verses you put at the end of your videos - I always look forward to them. Good pieces of daily bread 😊🙏 Your channel is such a blessing. Hope you have an awesome weekend!

[@lakeywindi1166]

That's beautiful and love it. Thanks for that technique....😍😍

[@rainafox]

Beautiful, thanks for sharing 😊

[@catherinelevison3310]

Wow, that was a fantastic result. Thank you.

[@Sunraes73]

So beautiful

[@judithsopher4711]

This is amazing. I often do a outline sketch before I paint but never knew of this technique. Opens up a whole new area of painting. Thanks.

[@renaes5262]

Such lovely piece and a timely discussion. thank you for sharing... I love to sketch. Your limited palette with neutral tones here made my heart sing.

[@starr-starr]

I started doing this after seeing a video with Richard Thorn. I use it to get tonal values in quick sketches I do at the park. My scribbles are not nearly as masterful as yours! Really enjoyed watching this.

[@capbin146]

The painting is definitely better than the photo. Love it. Shows what a great draftsmanship you are. Thanks 👍

[@maryanharrell561]

Beautiful, Steve. I love to draw a detailed bird and then watercolor over it. Thanks for reminding me that this is a perfectly acceptable way of painting!

[@AbraCassandraCrafts]

What a wonderful technique! I'm in love with ink and wash but now I can't wait to try this!

[@eliudnevarez]

Que hermosa pintura, ¡gracias por compartir!

[@Renilou2]

I LOVE the look too! Especially the way you do it. That organic vintage appeal of graphite muting the color is beautiful.

[@dekay929]

I also love this technique! Thanks, great painting.

[@josephineherrera8508]

I love doing this! I am so glad you decided to show this technique.

[@craftergin]

I love your detailed drawings. Your subjects are so alive!

[@juliehenderson1672]

You are an art genius! Love watching you work. Your videos are such a gift! Thank you.

[@christineingram55]

This is absolutely beautiful.It has made it a lot easier to do and the pencil has not really changed or muddied the paint much at all.I have not tried this because I always thought it would mess with the colours too much .Great tutorial.Thank you Steve 🥰

[@mindofwatercolor]

Graphite mixing with color is only a problem if you need super bright, intense colors. HB stays put pretty well. Anything softer like 2B+ will mix more.