Make an Easy Watercolour Painting with an Acrylic Block

Today I have an amazing technique for you to create your own easy watercolour painting. This abstract art masterpiece is so quick and simple. So much so, that it's the perfect easy watercolour painting for beginners.

What I love about this easy watercolour painting idea is that I finally get to use my acrylic stamping block! I have had this block sitting around for many years and I think I've used it all of two times for stamping. With a craft room bursting with supplies, it's nice to be able to repurpose things that I no longer use.

I have recorded a video for you (further below). I saw this painting technique on YouTube and thought I would give it a go. This is the first time I have used an acrylic block with my watercolour paints so in the video I am simply trialling this method as I go. Through the video, of course, I am sharing my tips on what I found easier or more effective.

I have also done this same technique with acrylic craft paints, I'll share the link once I've uploaded the video! My apologies for the video and photo quality in this post. I am still trying to find the best place to film in my new house! This spot just didn't quite cut it this time. Watch the video below or scroll through the post and images if you prefer to read all about it.

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SUPPLIES

• Watercolour paints in your choice of colours
• Watercolour paper or Mixed Media paper (something around 200 gsm)
• Paintbrush
• Acrylic Stamping Block
• Paper Towel (optional but should be smooth, without texture)
• Jar of Water

STEP #1 | Painting the block with your watercolour paints

Wet your brush with water. Dip into your first paint colour then brush onto the smooth side of your acrylic block. Once you have done the first colour, wash your brush and continue with the others.

This is an abstract piece of art so there doesn't need to be any particular method to the way in which you apply the colours. Keep in mind that whatever design you paint onto the block, once you press it down, it will change completely (that's the beauty of this technique!).

For me I found that I preferred to put less of the darker colours on. However, this is all based on your personal preference and the look that you're going for.

STEP #2 | Painting onto the paper

Once you have painted your block, flip it over onto the paper. You may prefer to tape your paper to your workspace so that it doesn't move however I never had an issue with this.

Allow the watercolours to move around underneath the block. Given it is clear you will be able to see this happen and it looks pretty cool! Be sure to apply gentle but firm pressure to the entire block. Yes… I just said gentle but firm haha. If you're not gentle, the block will move but if you're not firm enough, you may not get all of the paint onto the page. Hence the oxymoron.

STEP #3 | Removing the block + completing your super easy watercolour painting

Holding onto your paper (if you haven't taped it down) gently pull your block up and away from the paper.

Be aware of too much water. You can always dab your artwork with tissue or paper towel if there is too much of it. My paper towel had quite a thick wavey texture to it, which was then imprinted on the painting after dabbing the excess water away. It wasn't a look I really liked so just be aware of using something smooth instead.

Well now, that was pretty easy wasn't it?!

STEP #4 | The results plus a few tips

I found it best to try this technique a few times. Wipe your block down with some paper towel and try it over and over again. You will then get a good feel for how much water and paint to apply each time you do. This also allows you to try painting the colours in different ways to get different results.

In the video you'll see that I stamped the fourth attempt without applying more paint. I didn't like it at the time however now that I watch the video over, it looks a little like waves and foam washing on the beach. What do you think of it (below)?

These easy watercolour colour paintings look amazing. I definitely improved as I went along. My favourites were my 3rd and 5th attempts (in the video I mentioned 4th attempt, oops!). My last, 6th attempt actually had too much water.

What to do with your watercolour paintings

I have now made a printable out of this painting and uploaded it to the Freebies Library. I think the quote is very appropriate for this project! Perfectly Imperfect. This watercolour technique is unique and gorgeous for its perfect imperfection. Perfectly imperfect is always how I like to think of myself and those that I love too.

Some suggestions that your art would be great for:

• Making a greeting card. Add more paper elements or use a white pen to write a special message or draw onto your watercolour canvas.
• Paint 12 or so to cut out and make bunting from. You can keep as is or add paper or letter stickers.
• Cut several out to create and write your own affirmation cards. Use a paint or gel pen in white or any contrasting colour.
• Create some fun gift wrap tags. Use a paper punch to easily create different shapes.
• Cut and use as wall art. Create a series in similar colours or completely different ones.
• Given how easy this is, use it as a creative activity for the kids.
• Photograph or scan into your computer as I have done. Create your own digital masterpiece, you can even print it out.
• Photograph for a digital screen saver.

I mentioned above how I loved this painting technique as I get to repurpose my craft supplies. My second favourite thing about this method is that it's so easy to produce a beautiful and unique piece of abstract art. That's what makes it perfect for beginner watercolour painters.

I would love to hear your suggestions on how to use your easy watercolour painting. Comment below or share on Instagram and tag @avisualmerriment.

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