The Colored Pencil Course: Watercolor Pencils - Part 1

Lesson Description

In this lesson, we begin exploring watercolor pencils, a versatile medium that combines the precision of colored pencils with the fluidity of watercolor paint. This is the first of a two-part series on watercolor pencils, and it introduces the fundamental properties of this medium while beginning a new drawing of a gargoyle. By the end of this lesson, you will understand the basics of using watercolor pencils and how they differ from traditional colored pencils.

Understanding Watercolor Pencils

Watercolor pencils are unique in that they can be applied dry like traditional colored pencils and then activated with water to create smooth washes and blended effects. In this section, Matt explains the properties of watercolor pencils, including pigment strength, solubility, and layering potential. Understanding how watercolor pencils react to water and how they interact with paper is essential for achieving the desired effects in your artwork.

Differences Between Watercolor and Traditional Colored Pencils

While watercolor pencils share some similarities with regular colored pencils, there are key differences in handling and technique. Traditional colored pencils are primarily used dry for layering, blending, and detailing. Watercolor pencils, on the other hand, offer the flexibility to create washes and painterly effects when water is applied. Matt discusses how these differences affect your approach to drawing, from planning your layers to controlling value and saturation.

Choosing Materials for Watercolor Pencils

Using the right materials is crucial for success with watercolor pencils. In this lesson, Matt discusses selecting appropriate watercolor pencils, paper, and brushes. He emphasizes using watercolor paper with enough texture and absorbency to handle both dry pencil work and water activation. Matt also shares tips on brush types and water application methods to ensure smooth blending and vibrant results.

Planning the Gargoyle Drawing

Before applying any color, planning the composition and structure of the gargoyle is essential. In this section, we begin by lightly sketching the gargoyle, establishing the major shapes and proportions. Matt explains how to break down complex forms into simpler shapes, making it easier to apply color and build depth. Careful planning ensures that the drawing will remain balanced and visually engaging throughout the watercolor pencil process.

Applying the First Layers

With the sketch in place, Matt demonstrates how to begin applying watercolor pencils dry. This first layer establishes base colors and values, providing a foundation for both dry and water-activated techniques. You will learn how to control pressure, blend colors subtly, and plan areas where washes will later enhance depth and dimension. This approach helps create a strong base while allowing flexibility for future layers and water effects.

Exploring Water Activation

One of the most exciting features of watercolor pencils is their ability to transform when water is applied. Matt shows how to gently activate the dry pencil with a brush, blending colors smoothly while maintaining control over edges and transitions. This section covers techniques for controlling water flow, preserving highlights, and creating gradients that add depth and realism to the gargoyle’s form.

Practical Exercises and Tips

At the end of the lesson, practical exercises are provided to help you become comfortable with watercolor pencil techniques. These exercises focus on color mixing, layering, and water activation, as well as observing the subtle ways that values and textures can change when water is applied. Matt also provides tips for avoiding common issues, such as over-saturating the paper or muddying colors, ensuring your experiments are successful and controlled.

Lesson 20 introduces the fundamentals of working with watercolor pencils while beginning the gargoyle drawing. By understanding the unique properties of this medium, learning the differences from traditional colored pencils, and practicing initial layering and water activation techniques, you gain a strong foundation for creating dynamic, textured, and expressive artwork. This lesson sets the stage for the second module, where we will continue to build depth, refine details, and fully develop the gargoyle using watercolor pencils.

Lesson Materials

140 lb. watercolor paper, graphite transfer paper, Derwent watercolor pencils, nylon brush, water, paper towel.

Lesson Resources

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Course Curriculum