How Much Do You Really Know About Watercolor Technique?
In short: How much do you really know about watercolor? In short, clear sections, we explain watercolors (fluid and pan), which brushes are used, what paper is suitable (weight and texture: hot press, cold press, rough), and what masking fluid is used for.

Which brushes are used for watercolor? What paper is suitable for watercolors? Let’s take a closer look.
Watercolors
Watercolors. .. aqua means water.
- They come in a fluid form in tubes or a solid form in pans.
- They are all diluted with water.
- Paint that has dried on the palette can be used again. Just add water.
- We avoid using white paint in watercolor and get a lighter shade by adding more water.
Brushes
Soft, delicate brushes are used for watercolor. These are usually brushes made from soft natural hair, such as marten, camel, or squirrel hair, but synthetic imitations are also available. They are more affordable and practical for beginners. In both cases, it’s important that the brush can absorb and hold plenty of water. A MOP is a fluffy, soft brush that comes to a sharp point when wet and still has a “belly” that holds plenty of water.
Watercolor Paper
To keep paper from buckling as you apply paint and water, it’s important to choose an appropriate weight/thickness, at least 140 g/m². The thicker the paper, the less likely it is to buckle. A higher cotton content in the paper also reduces the likelihood of it warping while you work.
Watercolor paper can have different textures depending on how it is made:
- hot press - smooth
- cold press - medium-textured
- rough - rough
Masking Fluid
Watercolor is a technique that doesn’t forgive mistakes because the layers are transparent. It takes practice to learn to work with water and pigment the way you envision. There is, however, a helpful tool: masking fluid. Apply it to the areas of the paper you want to keep white before painting, and it will block paint from reaching those areas. Once the paint is dry, simply peel the fluid off the paper.
Do you have any other questions or tips about watercolor to share?
Frequently Asked Questions
What forms do watercolors come in?
They come in a fluid form in tubes or a solid form in pans. Both are diluted with water, and dried paint on the palette can be used again. Just add water.
Is white paint used in watercolor?
White is usually avoided. A lighter shade is achieved by adding more water, not white paint.
What are the best brushes for watercolor?
Soft, fine brushes made from natural hair (mink, camel, or squirrel) or more affordable synthetic brushes for beginners. The most important thing is that the brush absorbs and holds plenty of water (e.g., a MOP brush).
What paper weight is suitable for watercolor?
At least 140 g/m². The thicker the paper and the higher its cotton content, the less it will buckle when working with water.
What is masking fluid used for?
Apply it before painting to the areas you want to leave white; it blocks paint from getting through. Once the paint is dry, simply peel the masking fluid off the paper.
Read more on our blog
- 12 Tips for Beginners: How to Get Started with Watercolor Painting
- Can You Paint on Canvas with Watercolors?
- Do You Know What Color Theory Is? The Color Wheel
Improve Your Watercolor Skills
The right paints, good brushes, and quality paper are the foundation of every watercolor painting. Get equipped and start painting.
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