Examples of Watercolor Pencil Resist Techniques

Introduction to Watercolor Pencil Resist Techniques

Watercolor pencil resist techniques are an exciting way to add depth and texture to your artwork. By using a resist medium, you can create vibrant contrasts and unique effects that will make your drawings stand out. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples of watercolor pencil resist techniques that will inspire you to experiment and express your creativity!

Example 1: Wax Resist with Watercolor Pencils

Context

This technique is perfect for creating vibrant backgrounds or intricate patterns. The wax from a candle or a crayon acts as a resist, preventing watercolor from adhering to those areas, allowing for beautiful designs to emerge.

Using a white crayon or a candle, draw your desired design on watercolor paper before applying watercolor pencil. Once your design is complete, use a wet brush to activate the watercolor pencil, and watch as the colors beautifully blend around your wax resist!

To achieve this, follow these steps:

1. On a piece of watercolor paper, sketch a simple design using a white crayon or candle. You can create swirls, dots, or even simple shapes like hearts or stars.
2. Choose your watercolor pencils and color in the background, ensuring you cover the entire area around the crayon drawing.
3. Next, take a wet brush and gently brush over the colored areas. The colors will blend smoothly while the crayon marks remain untouched, creating a stunning contrast.

Notes

• You can experiment with different colors of crayons for various effects.
• Try layering different colors of watercolor pencil for added depth.

Example 2: Salt Resist Technique

Context

Salt can add an interesting texture to your watercolor pencil artwork by absorbing moisture and creating unique patterns. This technique works particularly well when painting landscapes or abstract art.

Begin by applying watercolor pencils to your paper and then sprinkle salt over the wet areas. As the salt absorbs the water, it will create beautiful, crystalline effects, adding dimension to your piece.

To execute this technique:

1. Draw your desired image or background with watercolor pencils, making sure to apply a generous amount of color.
2. Use a wet brush to activate the watercolor and blend the colors together.
3. While the areas are still wet, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the top. Allow the piece to dry completely.
4. Once dry, carefully brush off the salt to reveal the textured patterns left behind.

Notes

• Experiment with different types of salt (coarse vs. fine) for varied effects.
• This technique can be used in combination with other resist methods for more complex results.

Example 3: Masking Fluid Resist

Context

Masking fluid is a wonderful tool for artists looking to preserve white spaces in their artwork. This technique is especially useful for detailed illustrations or creating highlights in landscapes.

With masking fluid, you can draw or paint over areas you want to keep white, and once you’re finished painting, simply remove the masking fluid to reveal pristine white spaces.

Here’s how to use masking fluid with watercolor pencils:

1. Apply masking fluid to the areas of your artwork that you want to remain white. You can use a brush or a dip pen for more precise application.
2. Allow the masking fluid to dry completely before applying watercolor pencils around it. You can create a colorful background or intricate designs.
3. Once you’re satisfied with the colors, let everything dry fully. Then, gently rub off the masking fluid with your fingers or an eraser to reveal the untouched white paper underneath.

Notes

• Be careful when applying masking fluid, as it can sometimes pull up the paper if removed too aggressively.
• Use a dedicated brush for masking fluid, as it can ruin regular brushes.

By exploring these examples of watercolor pencil resist techniques, you can elevate your artistic creations and discover new ways to express your creativity. Happy painting!