Watercolour: Techniques and Tutorials for the Complete Beginner (Art Techniques)

Paul Clark is my absolute favorite artist. He is incredibly talented, yet his personality is so relatable, friendly, and approachable. Never a hint of condescension. He has the ability to teach clearly so that you can understand the process, techniques, and materials for watercolor without being so overwhelmed that you feel like giving it up. The same applies to his book. It is invaluable for the beginner as it is not overwhelming as a lot of information for watercolor painting can be. Paul covers it all without prompting a trip to the liquor store or hair-replacement treatment. In a lot of books, color theory alone can be enough to cause someone to snatch their hair out and feel completely incompetent. He includes tutorials in stages of painting. His materials and techniques sections are not overwhelming. My main purpose for buying this book was to “loosen up” my painting style. I’ve looked at a lot of books that intend to help make your style less complicated, but are so complicated one might give up in the process. I have the attention-span of a gnat, so that does not work for me. I would describe myself as an intermediate painter and I still learn a lot and get a great “tweaking” with regards to what I have already learned, so it’s great for all levels. If you’re looking for a book that covers it all in a clear, concise, comfortable, and friendly manner, then “give this one a go”. I recommend this book as well as his YouTube channel. Not only do I learn a lot from his book and channel, he’s very fun to watch. My husband, who doesn’t even paint, loves to watch Paul!

I bought this book after checking one out from my public library and not wanting to return it. It’s very helpful and I refer to it often. It’s nice to have my own copy of it. Paul walks you through things and his Youtube videos are helpful and entertaining and make you feel like you’re painting with a great friend.

In the past 18 months I have ordered ( from amazon) no less than 20 “ beginners” watercolor books. This book is By Far the best of the Lot. If you are a beginner this book is a Must for you and will teach you the fundamental techniques and what you need to practice to start your journey! Two Thumbs WAY Up. If you’ve played around and Now want to get serious this is Also the book to get the path straightened. I wish I had found this Gem First. But better late than never. Buy this book Now, you’ll be patting yourself on the back for a good long time. Lots n lots of simple and uncomplicated instructions, excellent illustrations coupled with Minimal supplies, What’s not to like! If you’re looking for lesser helpful books I have about 20 I can part with!!!! I have “ZERO” affiliation with the author of this book - I’m just sitting here wishing I did! Even though he’s about 3,000 miles due East of me here in coastal Maine his tome makes me feel that he is right here teaching. Happy painting! ( Ps. - beware the “ Meh” guy - he’s an idiot - you can tell by his following! )

Informative well written book for loose watercolor wannabes. Great price for a Goodwill book in new condition. 👍

The best watercolor book I have ever purchased. Paul is excellent. Originally found him through his you tube videos which are also great. But this book offered the details I was missing along the way. From getting started with the right supplies, tips for beginners to painting beautiful work. Loose painting guides for watercolor are hard to find - he lets go of the control and helps you discover the beauty and mystery of this wonderful medium.

I rarely write reviews, but this book is one of the best instructional books I have seen. Sometimes books will just present a series examples, which does not help the beginner or the intermediate student. This book presents examples with step-by-step instructions (with excellent images) on how to achieve the same results. The instructions are concise and easy to follow. The book is not overwhelming. Paul selected examples that truly help the beginner learn the techniques while achieving results that are satisfying. I will be recommending this book to anyone who asks me how they could learn watercolor.

I own many watercolor books by many different authors and this is by far the best book out there! Many of the books "guide" you into painting like the authors own style, this book teaches you how to be a better painter in every style. It's not wordy, it encourages you to change it up to your style, and you learn as you paint (instead of reading a bunch then trying to apply the technique). Wish I would've found this book before I bought all the other books.

Very informative and useful. Beautiful projects