How to Use Watercolor Paint Tubes

Are you a watercolor enthusiast? Have you ever found yourself staring at your paint tubes wondering how to get the most out of them? Fear not! Using watercolor paint tubes can seem intimidating at first, but with a little bit of guidance and practice, they can become your go-to tool for creating beautiful works of art.

One of the biggest challenges in using watercolor paint tubes is understanding the different consistencies and pigments available. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry! By learning just a few basic techniques, you’ll be able to confidently navigate the world of watercolor paint and create stunning pieces that showcase your unique style and creativity.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into how to use watercolor paint tubes effectively. We’ll explore everything from choosing the right materials to mixing colors and applying washes. So whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, keep reading to discover all the tips and tricks you need to unlock your full creative potential with watercolor paint tubes!

Understanding Watercolor Paint Tubes: A Beginner’s Guide

Watercolor paint tubes are a popular medium used by artists of all levels and abilities. They offer a wide range of colors, are easy to use, and can produce beautiful and unique effects on paper. If you’re new to watercolor painting or looking to expand your skills, here’s what you need to know.

What are Watercolor Paint Tubes?

Watercolor paint tubes contain a concentrated pigment mixed with a binder that is easily diluted with water. The tubes come in various sizes and colors, and the amount of water added to the paint determines its opacity and consistency. The more water you add, the lighter and more transparent the color will be.

Why Use Watercolor Paint Tubes?

Watercolor paint tubes offer several benefits for artists:

• They provide vibrant, intense colors that can be layered or blended.
• They dry quickly, making them ideal for creating multiple layers or washes.
• They are easy to transport and store.
• They allow for precise control over the amount of pigment used.

The Essential Materials for Using Watercolor Paint Tubes

Before getting started with watercolor paint tubes, you’ll need some essential materials:

Paper:

The type of paper you use is important as it affects how your paint behaves on the surface. Choose paper specifically designed for watercolors with a weight of at least 140lbs (300gsm) to prevent warping when it gets wet.

Paintbrushes:

Good quality brushes will help achieve better results. Look for ones made from natural hair or synthetic fibers designed specifically for watercolors.

Palette:

A palette is essential to mixing colors effectively. You can use a plastic or ceramic one with wells for individual colors, or a large flat tray to mix multiple colors.

Water:

Water is needed to dilute the paint and clean brushes. Use clean water to avoid contaminating your colors.

Preparing Your Painting Surface for Watercolor Paint Tubes

Preparing your painting surface properly will help ensure the best results with watercolor paint tubes:

Stretching Paper:

To prevent warping, it’s recommended to stretch your paper before painting. Wet the paper and then attach it to a board using tape. As the paper dries, it will become taut and ready for painting.

Masking Fluid:

If you want to preserve areas of white in your painting, use masking fluid. Apply it with a brush to cover areas you want to protect from paint, let it dry completely, then paint over it. When the paint is dry, gently remove the masking fluid with an eraser.

Mastering Techniques with Watercolor Paint Tubes for Different Effects

There are several techniques you can use when working with watercolor paint tubes:

Dry Brush:

Using a dry brush technique involves adding only a small amount of water to your paint. This creates a textured effect that’s ideal for adding detail or texture.

Wet on Wet:

This technique uses wet paper as a base for applying wet paint. It allows colors to blend together more freely and is often used for creating backgrounds or atmospheric effects.

TIP:

To achieve better effects in this technique, take care not to use too much water in your initial wash; otherwise, the colors will blend together too much and lose their vibrancy.

Mixing Colors with Watercolor Paint Tubes: Tips and Tricks

Mixing colors with watercolor paint tubes can be challenging. Here are some tips to help:

• Start by mixing primary colors – red, yellow, blue – to create secondary colors.
• Use a palette knife or toothpick to mix colors together for more control.
• Add white or black paint sparingly as they can easily overpower other colors.

Avoiding Common Mistakes When Using Watercolor Paint Tubes

Here are some common mistakes beginners make when using watercolor paint tubes and how to avoid them:

Overworking:

Overworking the paint can cause it to become muddy and lose its vibrancy. To avoid this, let each layer dry completely before adding another.

Using too much water:

Using too much water can cause your paper to buckle or warp. Use only enough water needed for the desired effect.

Not cleaning brushes:

To prevent color contamination, always clean your brushes thoroughly between colors.

Caring for Your Watercolor Paint Tubes: Storage and Maintenance Tips

Proper storage and maintenance of your watercolor paint tubes will extend their lifespan:

• Store your paints in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Keep the caps tightly sealed on the tubes when not in use.
• To prevent drying out, keep a damp cloth over your paints while working.
• Clean up any spills or messes immediately to avoid staining surfaces.

Advanced Techniques and Applications for Using Watercolor Paint Tubes

Once you’ve mastered the basics of painting with watercolor paint tubes, there are many advanced techniques you can explore:

• Bleeding techniques that involve applying one wet color next to another to create a blended effect.
• Gouache, a type of watercolor paint that is more opaque and can be used for adding highlights or details.
• Dry brush techniques for creating detailed textures or lines.

In conclusion, watercolor paint tubes are a great tool for artists looking to create stunning works of art. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can unlock the full potential of your watercolor paint tubes and create beautiful, vibrant paintings that will captivate viewers and showcase your artistic talent.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Use Watercolor Paint Tubes

How do you use watercolor straight from the tube?
To use fresh paint, simply squeeze out a small amount onto a mixing surface and mix it with water. Alternatively, you can squeeze the paint onto a palette and let it dry for later use. For a personalized watercolor palette, you can create your own watercolor pans.

Do you need water for watercolor tubes?
If you leave your watercolor paint on a mixing palette for too long, it will dry out and need to be reactivated with water. Although any surface can be used for this, using a mixing palette has advantages.

Can I put my tube watercolors into pans?
If you need to refill your empty watercolor pans, then it is more cost-effective to purchase tubes of watercolors. Additionally, certain types of paints are better suited for use in pans.

Which is better watercolor tubes or pans?
Tubes are more convenient for watercolors as they enable faster wetting due to the moist paint they contain. In contrast, pans are dried hard and may require more time and water to soften the paint.

How long does it take for watercolor tube paint to dry?
To check the results, allow the pan to air dry for at least 24 to 48 hours. The drying time can vary based on the temperature and humidity, and may take a few days. It is important to let the pan dry naturally and not attempt to hasten the process by applying heat.

Do you paint directly on a watercolor block?
Paint easily and efficiently! When painting on a 140lb. watercolor block, it’s important to wait for your painting to dry completely before removing it to prevent the paper from buckling.