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Color Mixing Color Schemes Watercolor Exercises

Watercolor Triadic Color Scheme

The watercolor triadic color scheme involves using three contrasting colors that are not direct complements or analogous but are equally spaced on the color wheel.

Triadic colors add vibrancy, depth, contrast, and visual interest creating a harmonious and balanced painting composition that is pleasing to the eye.

Choosing the right triadic colors will set the tone and mood of the artwork. Let’s explore how to effectively use the triadic color scheme in watercolor painting.

THE BASICS OF TRIADIC COLOR SCHEME

The triadic color scheme is often referred to as the primary triad because it commonly consists of the three primary colors: yellow, blue, and red.

But the triadic color scheme can be any three colors that are equidistant from one another on a 12-color color wheel that consists of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors.

To select a triad simply pick one color on a 12-color color wheel, skip the next three colors on the color wheel to find the second color, then skip the next three colors on the color wheel to find the third color.

EXAMPLES OF TRIADIC COLOR SCHEMES

Here are examples of triadic color schemes:

  • Yellow, Blue, and Red: Three primary colors.
  • Orange, Green, and Violet: Three secondary colors.
  • Yellow-Green, Blue-Violet, and Red-Orange: Three tertiary colors.
  • Blue-Green, Red-Violet, Yellow-Orange: Three tertiary colors.

HOW TO USE A WATERCOLOR TRIADIC COLOR SCHEME

Here are some tips on how to effectively use the triadic color scheme in watercolor painting:

  1. Choose a Dominant Color: Start by choosing one color from the triadic color scheme as the dominant color for your painting. This color will be the main focus of your artwork and will set the tone for the entire composition. For example, you can use a warm red as the dominant color for a fiery sunset scene or a cool blue for a serene seascape.
  2. Use the Other Colors as Accents: Once you have chosen the dominant color, you can use the other two colors from the triadic color scheme as accents in your painting. These colors can be used to add interest and visual impact to your artwork. For example, you can use touches of blue and yellow to create highlights or shadows in your red-dominated painting.
  3. Experiment with Different Combinations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of triadic colors to create different effects in your watercolor paintings. For example, you can use a cool blue with a warm yellow and a muted red to create a painting with a sense of calmness and tranquility, or you can use a vibrant red, blue, and yellow to create an energetic and dynamic composition.
  4. Pay Attention to Color Balance: One of the key aspects of using the triadic color scheme effectively is to maintain a sense of color balance in your artwork. Make sure that the three colors are used in a balanced and harmonious way so that none of the colors overpower the others. You can achieve this by using different intensities, values, and proportions of the colors to create a visually pleasing composition.
  5. Experiment with Different Techniques: Watercolor painting offers a wide range of techniques that can be used to enhance the triadic color scheme in your artwork. For example, you can try wet-on-wet techniques to create soft and blended transitions between the triadic colors or use dry brush techniques to create texture and depth.

In conclusion, the watercolor triadic color scheme is a powerful tool that watercolor artists can use to create vibrant and visually appealing paintings. By choosing three colors that are evenly spaced on the color wheel and using them effectively in your artwork, you can achieve a sense of balance, harmony, and depth.

Experimenting with different combinations, paying attention to color balance, and exploring various techniques can help you unlock the full potential of the triadic color scheme in your watercolor paintings. So, grab your brushes, pick your triadic colors, and let your creativity flow as you explore the beauty of this dynamic color scheme in your watercolor artwork!

PRACTICE EXERCISE – WATERCOLOR TRIADIC COLOR SCHEME

Use my affiliate links below to purchase the watercolor paints you need.

Choose one of the following transparent and semi-transparent watercolor triadic color scheme groups:

A primary triad:

A secondary triad:

A tertiary triad:

A tertiary triad:

Compose small value-study paintings using one of the above triad color groups, but to start do not mix the colors together.

Paint one unmixed color in the “focal point” central area of emphasis in the composition.

Then, paint the other two colors in varying proportions surrounding the focal point color.

Also, use a gray scale value finder as a guide for mixing a range of tonal values for the triad colors.

gray scale value finder

Afterward, add the mid-tonal values and neutralized color mixtures in the outlying areas of the painting composition.

CONCLUSION

By spending time working with the watercolor triadic color scheme, you will eventually gain a deeper understanding of color harmony and contrast, and how to organize the colors and values in your painting compositions.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Color Schemes” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Color Schemes Watercolor Exercises

Watercolor Split-Complementary Color Scheme

A watercolor split-complementary color scheme is a popular and effective option for adding visual interest and balance to your artwork.

In watercolor painting, the split-complementary color scheme can be an excellent way to create a cohesive and visually appealing painting.

WHAT IS A SPLIT-COMPLEMENTARY COLOR SCHEME?

Basically, it is an analogous color scheme with the addition of a complementary contrasting color.

To locate the colors, begin by selecting three analogous colors on the color wheel. Then select the middle color and select its complementary color on the opposite side of the color wheel.

For example, if the primary color is blue, the complementary contrasting color is orange and the analogous colors of orange are yellow-orange and red-orange. This is a four-color split-complementary color scheme.

For a three-color split-complementary color scheme with blue as the primary color, only the analogous colors yellow-orange and red-orange are used. Orange, the complementary contrasting color for blue, is not used in this three-color split-complementary color scheme.

Using these three or four colors together in a painting creates a vibrant and harmonious effect.

HOW TO USE A WATERCOLOR SPLIT-COMPLEMENTARY COLOR SCHEME

When using a split-complementary color scheme in watercolor painting, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:

  1. Choose your base analogous colors: These colors will be the dominant colors in your painting, so choose analogous colors that you love, and that will set the tone for the rest of the artwork.
  2. Use the complementary contrasting color sparingly: This color should be used in small amounts to create contrast and balance.
  3. Experiment with the analogous colors: These colors can be used in larger amounts to create interest and harmony in the painting.
  4. Consider value and saturation: To add depth and dimension to your painting, vary the value (lightness or darkness) and saturation (intensity) of each color.

EXAMPLES OF SPLIT-COMPLEMENTARY COLOR SCHEMES

Here are a few examples of four-color split-complementary color schemes:

  • Yellow, and the analogous colors red-violet, violet, and blue-violet
  • Red, and the analogous colors yellow-green, green, and blue-green
  • Blue, and the analogous colors yellow-orange, orange, and red-orange

In conclusion, a watercolor split-complementary color scheme is a versatile and effective option for adding visual interest and balance to your watercolor paintings. Experiment with different analogous colors and complementary contrasting colors to create a unique and vibrant artwork that reflects your personal style and creativity.

PRACTICE EXERCISE – WATERCOLOR SPLIT-COMPLEMENTARY COLOR SCHEME

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Choose one of the following transparent and semi-transparent watercolor analogous color scheme groups with its complementary contrasting color:

A yellow, yellow-orange, and yellow-green analogous color group:

A red, red-orange, and red-violet analogous color group:

A blue, blue-green, and blue-violet analogous color group:

Compose small value-study paintings using one of the above analogous color groups and the complementary contrasting color, but to start do not mix the colors together.

Paint the unmixed primary color in the “focal point” central area of emphasis in the composition.

Then, paint the analogous colors in varying proportions surrounding the primary color.

Also, use a gray scale value finder as a guide for mixing a range of tonal values for the analogous colors and the complementary contrasting color.

gray scale value finder

Afterward, add the mid-tonal values and neutralized color mixtures in the outlying areas of the painting composition.

CONCLUSION

By spending time working with the watercolor split-complementary color scheme, you will eventually gain a deeper understanding of color harmony and contrast, and how to organize the colors and values in your painting compositions.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Color Schemes” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Color Schemes Watercolor Exercises

Watercolor Analogous Color Scheme

A watercolor analogous color scheme is a color combination that involves using colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel. This creates a harmonious effect that is pleasing to the eye.

In watercolor painting, the analogous color scheme can be an excellent way to create a cohesive and visually appealing painting.

THE BASICS OF ANALOGOUS COLORS

To create an analogous color scheme, you will need to choose a color from the color wheel and then select the colors that are next to it.

For example, if you choose blue as your primary color, you might choose blue-green and blue-violet as your secondary colors.

USING ANALOGOUS COLORS IN WATERCOLOR PAINTING

When using an analogous color scheme in watercolor painting, it’s essential to keep in mind the importance of balance.

While you want to use colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, you still need to create a sense of contrast to make your painting visually interesting.

One way to achieve balance is by using a dominant color and then using the other colors as accents.

For example, you might use blue as your dominant color and then use blue-green and blue-violet as accents throughout your painting.

This will create a sense of unity while still providing enough contrast to make the painting visually interesting.

Another way to achieve balance is by using different tones and shades of analogous colors.

For example, you might use a darker shade of blue as your dominant color and then use lighter shades of blue-green and blue-violet as accents.

When using an analogous color scheme, it’s also important to pay attention to the temperature of the colors you’re using.

Warm colors, such as red, orange, and yellow, can create a sense of energy and excitement, while cool colors, such as blue, green, and violet, can create a sense of calm and tranquility.

By using warm and cool versions of your analogous colors, you can create a sense of balance and interest in your painting.

In conclusion, the analogous color scheme can be an excellent choice for watercolor painting. By using colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, you can create a cohesive and visually pleasing painting.

Just remember to pay attention to balance, tone, and temperature to create a painting that is both harmonious and visually interesting.

PRACTICE EXERCISE – WATERCOLOR ANALOGOUS COLOR SCHEME

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Choose one of the following transparent and semi-transparent watercolor analogous color scheme groups:

A yellow, yellow-orange, and yellow-green analogous color group:

A red, red-orange, and red-violet analogous color group:

A blue, blue-green, and blue-violet analogous color group:

Compose small value-study paintings using one of the above analogous color groups, but to start do not mix the colors together.

Paint the unmixed primary color in the “focal point” central area of emphasis in the composition.

Then, paint the two secondary colors in varying proportions surrounding the primary color.

Also, use a gray scale value finder as a guide for mixing a range of tonal values for the analogous color scheme.

gray scale value finder

Afterward, add the mid-tonal values and neutralized color mixtures in the outlying areas of the painting composition.

CONCLUSION

By spending time working with the watercolor analogous color scheme, you will eventually gain a deeper understanding of color harmony and contrast, and how to organize the colors and values in your painting compositions.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Color Schemes” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Color Schemes Watercolor Exercises

Watercolor Complementary Color Scheme

The watercolor complementary color scheme is one of the most effective ways to achieve an eye-catching color scheme in a painting. It uses pairs of colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel.

THE BASICS OF COMPLEMENTARY COLORS

The watercolor complementary color scheme color pairs are made up of one primary color and one secondary color.

The three primary colors are yellow, red, and blue and the three secondary colors are purple, green, and orange.

The complementary color pairs are:

  • yellow and purple
  • red and green
  • blue and orange

These color pairs create a vibrant contrast when used together, making the painting visually striking and dynamic.

In watercolor painting, this can be particularly effective because the transparent nature of watercolor allows the colors to blend and mix in interesting ways.

USING COMPLEMENTARY COLORS IN WATERCOLOR PAINTING

Complementary colors are an effective way to create strong visual contrast in watercolor painting.

Basically, they can be used to create a variety of effects, from a bold and dynamic look to a more subtle and harmonious feel.

While using a complementary color scheme in watercolor painting, it is important to keep a few things in mind.

Firstly, using too much of one color can overwhelm the other and make the painting look unbalanced.

Instead, the two-color color scheme requires using the complementary colors in roughly equal amounts or using one color more sparingly than the other making one color more dominant in the painting.

When two complementary colors are placed next to each other, they create a strong visual contrast that can help to create depth and dimension in a painting.

Also, it is important to remember that complementary colors can create a neutral gray when mixed together in equal proportions.

Because this can be useful for creating shadows or tonal variations in the painting.

However, a complementary color scheme can create a strong contrast and add visual interest to a painting.

Lastly, understanding how to use complementary colors effectively can greatly enhance the beauty and impact of a watercolor painting.

PRACTICE EXERCISE – WATERCOLOR COMPLEMENTARY COLOR SCHEME

Use my affiliate links below to purchase the watercolor paints you need.

Choose one of the following transparent or semi-transparent watercolors color pairs:

Transparent yellow and purple complementary color pair:

Transparent red and green complementary color pair:

Transparent blue and orange complementary color pair:

Semi-transparent yellow and purple complementary color pair:

Semi-transparent red and green complementary color pair:

Semi-transparent blue and orange complementary color pair:

Compose small value-study paintings using one of the above complementary color pairs, but to start do not mix the colors together.

Paint the unmixed colors one color next to the other color in the “focal point” central area of emphasis in the composition.

Then, mix the two complementary colors together in varying proportions to create different color mixtures.

Also, use a gray scale value finder as a guide for mixing a range of tonal values for the complementary color scheme.

gray scale value finder

Afterward, add the mid-tonal values and neutralized color mixtures in the outlying areas of the painting composition.

CONCLUSION

By spending time working with the watercolor complementary color scheme, you will eventually gain a deeper understanding of color contrast and harmony, and how to organize the colors and values in your painting compositions.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Color Schemes” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Color Schemes Watercolor Exercises

Watercolor Monochromatic Color Scheme

The watercolor monochromatic color scheme is one of the most popular color schemes for painting in watercolor. It is the simplest of all color schemes because it only uses one color.

The one-color color scheme requires varied tonal values and color intensity to structure the composition into an interesting watercolor painting.

This technique is often used by artists to create a cohesive painting while also emphasizing the textures and tonal values in the artwork.

We will explore what the monochromatic color scheme is and how you can use it to create stunning watercolor paintings.

WHAT IS THE WATERCOLOR MONOCHROMATIC COLOR SCHEME?

The watercolor monochromatic color scheme is a color palette that uses different shades, tints, and tones of a single watercolor. This creates a harmonious and cohesive color scheme that can be used to create a variety of moods and atmospheres.

For example, a monochromatic color scheme using blue watercolor can create a serene and calming painting, while a monochromatic color scheme using red can create a bold and energetic painting.

USING THE MONOCHROMATIC COLOR SCHEME IN WATERCOLOR PAINTING

Watercolor painting is known for its transparency and fluidity, which makes it an ideal medium for creating a monochromatic color scheme. Here are some tips on how to use the watercolor monochromatic color scheme:

CHOOSE YOUR COLOR

The first step in using the watercolor monochromatic color scheme is to choose your color. When selecting a color for a monochromatic color scheme, it is essential to choose a color that has a wide range of shades and tones.

For example, if you choose blue, you’ll want to make sure that you have light blues, dark blues, and everything in between.

MIX YOUR COLORS

Watercolor paint can be mixed with different amounts of water to create a range of hues and tones.

To create a lighter shade, add more water to your paint. To create a darker shade, use less water and more paint. For even darker tonal values, add black to the chosen color.

Use a gray scale value finder as a guide for mixing a range of tonal values for the monochromatic color scheme.

gray scale value finder

Although a monochromatic color scheme involves using a single color, it is still possible to create contrast and interest in the painting by incorporating contrasting colors.

For example, if you are painting a blue monochromatic watercolor painting, adding a small amount of orange to the blue color can create contrast and make the painting more dynamic.

EXPERIMENT WITH TEXTURE

When using a monochromatic color scheme, it is essential to emphasize the textures and tonal values in the painting.

Using a range of brush strokes and techniques can help create a variety of textures and add depth to the painting.

For example, dry brushing can create a rough, textured surface, while wet-on-wet techniques can create a smooth, blended effect.

PRACTICE EXERCISE – BLUE WATERCOLOR MONOCHROMATIC COLOR SCHEME

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Instead of using a manufactured black watercolor paint, mix the following watercolors for a strong, near-black paint mixture. Then use this mixture to create darker blue colors.

Choose one or all of the following transparent and semi-transparent watercolors for the blue monochromatic color scheme:

Choose one of the following contrasting orange watercolor mixtures to add to the blue color to neutralize it:

A mixture of…

Or a mixture of…

Or a mixture of…

Compose small value-study paintings placing the strongest contrasting values together (the lightest next to the darkest tone) in the “focal point” central area of emphasis in the composition.

Add more mid-tonal values and neutralized color in the outlying areas of the painting composition.

CONCLUSION

By spending time working with the monochromatic color scheme, you will gain a deeper understanding of tonal values and how to organize the values in your painting compositions.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Color Schemes” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Hooker’s Green Watercolor – Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing

Hooker’s Green watercolor is a pure transparent non-staining watercolor that is a warm, natural green that can be used as a primary green.

It is one of the “greens” in the transparent non-staining watercolor palette used for the glazing technique and mixing with other colors.

hooker's green watercolor thumbnail
Click image to watch video on YouTube

Measured against a gray scale value finder, transparent non-staining watercolors are generally light in value ranging from 10% to a maximum of 70% value.

gray scale & value finder

So, the colors in the transparent non-staining category are adequate for a complete palette, except for where darker passages require colors with values higher on the gray scale.

PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

The characteristics of Hooker’s Green differ in hue from one brand to another. Holbein’s brand has a yellow summer green color and Winsor Newton’s brand is cooler and darker.

Like other transparent non-staining watercolors, Hooker’s Green can be lifted from a dampened watercolor paper without leaving a strong stain behind.

COLOR MIXING WITH HOOKER’S GREEN WATERCOLOR

Add Aureolin or New Gamboge to Hooker’s Green to mix a variety of green colors that look more natural than using it straight from the tube.

Mix Hooker’s Green with Permanent Rose to create interesting mid-value transparent gray colors. For a darker gray, mix Hooker’s Green with Quinacridone Violet.

It also makes beautiful, luminous washes when glazed or mixed with the other watercolors in the transparent non-staining category.

Hooker’s Green can also be successfully mixed with watercolors in the semi-transparent non-staining category.

Mixed with semi-opaque or opaque colors, it will create a combination that is cleaner and more transparent than using only opaque colors.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

… and the recommended transparent non-staining watercolors for glazing or color mixing with Hooker’s Green

… also the recommended semi-transparent and semi-opaque watercolors for mixing with Hooker’s Green

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Viridian Watercolor – Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing

Viridian watercolor is a pure transparent non-staining watercolor that has a distinctive metallic blue-green color that is rarely used on its own as a primary green.

It is one of the “greens” in the transparent non-staining watercolor palette used for the glazing technique and mixing with other colors.

viridian watercolor video thumbnail
Click image to watch video on YouTube

Measured against a gray scale value finder, transparent non-staining watercolors are generally light in value ranging from 10% to a maximum of 70% value.

gray scale & value finder

So, the colors in the transparent non-staining category are adequate for a complete palette, except for where darker passages require colors with values higher on the gray scale.

PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

Viridian is considered to be a cool bluish green, that is tricky to mix when a warm green color is desired.

Like other transparent non-staining watercolors, Viridian can be lifted from a dampened watercolor paper without leaving a strong stain behind.

COLOR MIXING WITH VIRIDIAN WATERCOLOR

Add Aureolin or New Gamboge to Viridian to mix a variety of green colors that look more natural than using it straight from the tube.

Create special foliage effects by combining Viridian with a mixture of yellows, oranges, reds, and/or earth colors.

Mix Viridian with Rose Madder Genuine or mix Viridian, Cobalt Blue, and Vermilion together to create interesting mid-value transparent gray colors.

It also makes beautiful, luminous washes when glazed or mixed with the other watercolors in the transparent non-staining category.

Viridian can also be successfully mixed with watercolors in the semi-transparent non-staining category.

Mixed with semi-opaque or opaque colors, it will create a combination that is cleaner and more transparent than using only opaque colors.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

… and the recommended transparent non-staining watercolors for glazing or color mixing with Viridian

… also the recommended semi-transparent non-staining watercolor for mixing with Viridian

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Cobalt Blue Watercolor – Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing

Cobalt Blue watercolor is a pure transparent non-staining watercolor that has a distinctive color that is rarely used on its own as a primary blue.

It is the “blue” in the transparent non-staining watercolor palette used for the glazing technique and mixing with other colors.

cobalt blue watercolor video thumbnail
Click image to watch video on YouTube

Measured against a gray scale value finder, transparent non-staining watercolors are generally light in value ranging from 10% to a maximum of 70% value.

So, the colors in the transparent non-staining category are adequate for a complete palette, except for where darker passages require colors with values higher on the gray scale.

PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

Cobalt Blue is considered to be a neutral blue, neither warm nor cool, that can be used to tone down other colors it is mixed with.

Like other transparent non-staining watercolors, Cobalt Blue can be lifted from a dampened watercolor paper without leaving a strong stain behind.

COLOR MIXING WITH COBALT BLUE WATERCOLOR

Mix Cobalt Blue with Permanent Rose to create delicate transparent violet colors.

Add Aureolin or New Gamboge to Cobalt Blue to mix a variety of green colors that look more natural than using Viridian or Hooker’s Green straight from the tube.

Mix Cobalt Blue with Aureolin plus Rose Madder Genuine to create interesting light to mid-value transparent gray colors.

It also makes beautiful, luminous washes when glazed or mixed with the other watercolors in the transparent non-staining category.

Cobalt Blue can also be successfully mixed with watercolors in the semi-transparent non-staining category.

Mixed with semi-opaque or opaque colors, it will create a combination that is cleaner and more transparent than using only opaque colors.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

… and the recommended transparent non-staining watercolors for glazing or color mixing with Cobalt Blue

… also the recommended semi-transparent non-staining watercolor for mixing with Cobalt Blue

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Permanent Rose Watercolor – Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing

Permanent Rose watercolor is a pure transparent non-staining watercolor that has a reddish-pink color.

It is one of the “reds” in the transparent non-staining watercolor palette used primarily for the glazing technique.

permanent rose watercolor video thumbnail
Click image to watch video on YouTube

Measured against a gray scale value finder, transparent non-staining watercolors are generally light in value ranging from 10% to a maximum of 70% value.

So, the colors in the transparent non-staining category are adequate for a complete palette, except for where darker passages require colors with values higher on the gray scale.

PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

Permanent Rose is redder and slightly darker than Rose Madder Genuine which has more blue in it.

Like other transparent non-staining watercolors, Permanent Rose can be lifted from a dampened watercolor paper without leaving a strong stain behind.

COLOR MIXING WITH PERMANENT ROSE WATERCOLOR

Mix Permanent Rose with Cobalt Blue to create delicate transparent violet colors.

Mix it with Hooker’s Green to create a beautiful transparent mid-value gray color.

Add Aureolin or New Gamboge to Permanent Rose to mix a variety of orange colors instead of using Cadmium Orange.

Permanent Rose can also be successfully mixed with watercolors in the semi-transparent non-staining category.

Mixed with semi-opaque or opaque colors, it will create a combination that is cleaner and more transparent than using only opaque colors.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

… and the recommended transparent non-staining watercolors for glazing or color mixing with Permanent Rose

… also the recommended semi-transparent non-staining yellow watercolor

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Rose Madder Genuine Watercolor – Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing

Rose Madder Genuine watercolor is a pure transparent non-staining watercolor with a crimson violet color resembling rose pink.

It is one of the “reds” in the transparent non-staining watercolor palette used primarily for the glazing technique.

Click image to watch video on YouTube

Measured against a gray scale value finder, transparent non-staining watercolors are generally light in value ranging from 10% to a maximum of 70% value.

So, the colors in the transparent non-staining category are adequate for a complete palette, except for where darker passages require colors with values higher on the gray scale.

PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

Rose Madder Genuine, like other transparent non-staining watercolors, can be lifted from a dampened watercolor paper without leaving a strong stain behind.

Rose Madder Genuine is often used as a substitute for Alizarin Crimson because it is less intense, non-staining, and more permanent than Alizarin Crimson.

COLOR MIXING WITH ROSE MADDER GENUINE WATERCOLOR

Rose Madder Genuine mixed with Aureolin creates a glowing color substitute for Raw Sienna and Burnt Sienna watercolor.

It also makes beautiful, luminous washes when glazed or mixed with the other watercolors in the transparent non-staining category.

Rose Madder Genuine can also be successfully mixed with watercolors in the semi-transparent non-staining category.

Mixed with semi-opaque or opaque colors, it will create a combination that is cleaner and more transparent than using only opaque colors.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

… and the recommended transparent non-staining watercolors for glazing or color mixing with Rose Madder Genuine

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Winsor Yellow Watercolor Characteristics & Color Mixing

Winsor Yellow watercolor is a very strong staining semi-transparent yellow that is described as a warm yellow.

But, in Jim Kosvanec’s book Transparent Watercolor Wheel, he includes Winsor Yellow in his group of transparent staining watercolors and describes it as having a cool temperature.

Click image to watch video on YouTube

Actually, a color’s temperature can be shifted from cool to warm and vice versa depending upon what color is placed next to it in a painting composition.

A warm color placed next to Winsor Yellow will make it appear cooler, and a cool color next to it makes appear warmer.

PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

Winsor Yellow is an intense, saturated color that will stain the fibers of the paper it’s applied to, as well as overpower other watercolors it’s mixed with.

It is often used as the first layer of a glaze before other color glazes are applied on watercolor paper.

COLOR MIXING WITH WINSOR YELLOW WATERCOLOR

When color mixing with Winsor Yellow, add it sparingly and gradually to another watercolor until the desired color mixture is reached.

As a transparent staining watercolor, it mixes well with other transparent staining watercolors.

But, it will slightly dull non-staining transparent and semi-transparent watercolors.

All transparent staining watercolors produce a less successive color mixture when mixed with semi-opaque and opaque watercolors which have coarser pigments that will stain and discolor.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

… and the recommended transparent staining watercolors for color mixing with Winsor Yellow

Book – Jim Kosvanec’s Transparent Watercolor Wheel

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Color Mixing Watercolor Paint Characteristics

Aureolin Watercolor Characteristics & Color Mixing

Aureolin watercolor is a pure primary yellow that is moderately transparent with a cool color temperature.

Aureolin watercolor is often used as the first layer of a glaze before other color glazes are applied on watercolor paper.

aureolin watercolor
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PAINT CHARACTERISTICS

Aureolin appears grayed straight from the tube, but when water is added and the thinned paint is applied, the grayish effect disappears.

Aureolin does not overpaint with the same clarity it seems to have as a first wash.

COLOR MIXING WITH AUREOLIN WATERCOLOR

Aureolin mixes well with other transparent and semi-transparent watercolors.

Aureolin mixed with Rose Madder Genuine creates a glowing color substitute for Raw Sienna and Burnt Sienna watercolor.

Aureolin mixed with Winsor Blue creates a vibrant green.

For more interesting greens, mix Aureolin with Viridian or Winsor Green with a touch of Rose Madder Genuine added.

For a lighter, transparent green, mix Aureolin with Cobalt Blue.

Instead of using dull brown colors from the tube, create luminous browns by mixing Aureolin with Rose Madder Genuine and a touch of Viridian or Winsor Green added.

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… and the recommended watercolors for color mixing with Aureolin

Want to know what colors work well with yellow? See my Aureolin blog post.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Watercolor Paint Characteristics & Color Mixing” for more videos. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Transparent Watercolor

Transparent Purple Watercolor

Transparent purple watercolor paints are either staining or non-staining. In addition, there are semi-transparent purple watercolors.

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Transparent Non-Staining Purple Watercolor Paints

QUINACRIDONE MAGENTA

Quinacridone Magenta contains PR122-Quinacridone Magenta pigment. It is a powerful bluish red with an impressive mixing range excellent for glazing color.

QUINACRIDONE VIOLET

Quinacridone Violet contains PV55-Quinacridone Purple pigment.

Transparent Staining Purple Watercolor Paints

PERMANENT MAGENTA

Permanent Magenta contains PV19-Quinacridone Violet and Quinacridone Red (PR192) pigments. It is the most lightfast organic pigment in this shade range.

WINSOR VIOLET

Winsor Violet contains PV23-Dioxazine Violet pigment. When it is used at full strength, it is very dark valued appearing almost black.

In addition to transparent non-staining purple, there are semi-transparent purple watercolors.

Semi-Transparent Non-Staining Purple Watercolor Paints

PERMANENT MAUVE

Permanent Mauve contains PV16-Manganese Violet pigment. Bluish-violet in color, it is one of the most lightfast, balanced violets in watercolor form.

ULTRAMARINE VIOLET

Ultramarine Violet contains PV15-Ultramarine Violet pigment. It is the bluest of the violets ranging from dull purple to pale violet.

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Want to know what colors work well with purple? See my color scheme blog posts below:

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Transparent Watercolor Paints List” for more videos about transparent colors. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Transparent Watercolor

Transparent Red Watercolor

Transparent red watercolor paints are either staining or non-staining. In addition, there are semi-transparent red watercolors.

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Transparent Non-Staining Red Watercolor Paints

PERMANENT ROSE

Permanent Rose contains Quinacridone Violet (PV19) and Quinacridone Red (PR192) pigments, producing a red color with a hint of red.

ROSE MADDER GENUINE

Rose Madder Genuine contains NR9-Rose Madder pigment, a crimson violet color resembling rose pink.

Transparent Staining Red Watercolor Paints

ALIZARIN CRIMSON

Alizarin Crimson contains PR83-Alizarin Crimson pigment, a clear ruby-red with a maroon masstone and a bluish undertone.

WINSOR RED

Winsor Red contains PR254-Pyrrole Red pigment, a highly staining, saturated mid-shade red color.

In addition to transparent non-staining red, there are semi-transparent red watercolors.

Semi-Transparent Non-Staining Red Watercolor Paints

QUINACRIDONE BURNT SCARLET

Quinacridone Burnt Scarlet contains PR206-Quinacridone Pyrrolidine Red pigment, a deep maroon or bordeaux red color.

VERMILION

Vermilion contains PR108-Cadmium Red pigment, a bright, warm red color.

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In addition, Daniel Smith has a transparent synthetic version of red iron oxide called Transparent Red Oxide. It has mostly replaced natural red iron oxides and is brighter and more permanent.

Red Color Scheme

Want to know what colors work well with red? See my Alizarin Crimson blog post.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Transparent Watercolor Paints List” for more videos about transparent colors. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

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Transparent Watercolor

Transparent Blue Watercolor

Transparent blue watercolor paints are either staining or non-staining. In addition, there are semi-transparent blue watercolors.

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Transparent Non-Staining Blue Watercolor Paints

COBALT BLUE

Cobalt Blue contains PB28-Cobalt Blue pigment. Jim Kosvanec Transparent Color Wheel lists Cobalt Blue as transparent non-staining. But, paint manufacturers label it as semi-transparent. It is commonly used as a pure color for glazing and for painting sky in landscapes. The pigment particles are large and grainy so it leaves a granulated effect on watercolor paper.

Transparent Staining Blue Watercolor Paints

WINSOR BLUE

Winsor Blue comes in two shades: Red Shade and Green Shade. Both paints contain PB15-Phthalo Blue pigments and are very strong staining transparent colors.

INDANTHRENE BLUE

Indanthrene Blue contains PB60-Indanthrene Blue pigment. It is a deep transparent blue with a tinting strength that is less overpowering than Winsor Blue. Its best mixing complements are Hansa Yellow Deep and Raw Umber.

In addition to transparent non-staining blue, there are semi-transparent blue watercolors.

Semi-Transparent Non-Staining Blue Watercolor Paints

ANTWERP BLUE

Antwerp Blue contains PB27-Antwerp Blue pigment. It is a slightly warm blue that is lighter than Prussian Blue. Lightfastness and permanence are good, but it has a tendency to fade when exposed to light. So, it is not considered ideal for permanent painting.

PRUSSIAN BLUE

Prussian Blue contains PB27-Prussian Blue pigment. It is a semi-transparent watercolor with a deep cyan-blue hue and greenish undertone. It is similar to Phthalo Blue.

CYANINE BLUE

Cyanine Blue contains two pigments: PB15:1-Phthalo Blue & PB28-Cobalt Blue. The PB15:1 pigment produces more reddish tones making Cyanine Blue a warmer blue color.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

Blue Color Scheme

Want to know what colors work well with blue? See my Winsor Blue blog post.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Transparent Watercolor Paints List” for more videos about transparent colors. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Categories
Transparent Watercolor

Transparent Green Watercolor

Transparent green watercolor paint types are either non-staining or staining. In addition, there are semi-transparent green watercolors.

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Transparent Non-Staining Green Watercolor Paints

HOOKER’S GREEN

Hooker’s Green contains two pigments: PG36-Phthalo Green & PO49-Quinacridone Gold. Both pigments are transparent. Hooker’s Green is considered a very good alternative to Viridian because the Phthalo Green pigment in it is intense and mixes well. And, the Quinacridone Gold, a transparent yellow-orange pigment, in Hooker’s Green makes it is a warmer green watercolor paint.

VIRIDIAN

Viridian contains PG18-Viridian pigment. It is transparent with an emerald green undertone perfect for glazing. Viridian is a cool, primary green commonly used in landscape painters’ palettes.

Transparent Staining Green Watercolor Paints

WINSOR GREEN

Winsor Green comes in two shades: Yellow Shade and Blue Shade. Both paints are very strong staining transparent colors. The Phthalo Green pigment in Winsor Green is a transparent, cool, bright, high-intensity color with a very high tinting strength that can overpower other colors.

PERMANENT GREEN NO. 1

Permanent Green No. 1 contains three pigments: PG7-Phthalo Green, PY53-Nickel Titanium Yellow & PY3-Hansa Yellow 10G. The Phthalo Green pigment in Permanent Green No. 1 is a transparent, cool, bright, high-intensity color. The addition of Nickel Titanium Yellow and Hansa Yellow pigments add brightness and transparency to Permanent Green No. 1 watercolor paint.

In addition to transparent non-staining green, there are semi-transparent green watercolors.

Semi-Transparent Non-Staining Green Watercolor Paints

GREEN GOLD

Green Gold contains PY129-Green Gold pigment, a greenish yellow pigment with low tinting strength. It’s a hue reminiscent of the glow of sunlight through leaves.

SAP GREEN

Sap Green contains three pigments: PR122-Quinacridone Magenta, PG7-Phthalo Green & PY150-Nickel Azo Yellow. Quinacridone Magenta pigment is a semi-transparent and powerful bluish red which gives Sap Green a darker green hue. And, the Nickel Azo Yellow pigment adds warmth, making Sap Green a good color match for botanical and landscape painting.

Purchase watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

Green Color Scheme

Want to know what colors work well with green? See my Viridian blog post.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Transparent Watercolor Paints List” for more videos about transparent colors. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Categories
Transparent Watercolor

Transparent Yellow Watercolor

Transparent yellow watercolor paint types are either non-staining or staining. In addition, there is a semi-transparent yellow watercolor.

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Transparent Non-Staining Yellow Watercolor Paint

AUREOLIN

Auerolin contains PY40-Cobalt Yellow pigment. It is a very pure, transparent yellow watercolor.

Transparent Staining Yellow Watercolor Paint

WINSOR YELLOW

Winsor Yellow contains PY154-Benzimidazolone Yellow pigment. It is a very strong staining transparent yellow watercolor.

In addition to transparent non-staining yellow, there is a semi-transparent yellow watercolor.

Semi-Transparent Non-Staining Yellow Watercolor Paint

NEW GAMBOGE

New Gamboge contains two pigments: PR209-Quinacridone Red & PY150-Nickel Azo Yellow. It has low tinting strength.

Purchase these yellow watercolor paints using my affiliate links below:

Yellow Color Scheme

Want to know what colors work well with yellow? See my Aureolin blog post.

To learn more about transparent watercolors, click the link to my blog post “Which watercolor paints are transparent.”

See my YouTube playlist “Transparent Watercolor Paints List” for more videos about transparent colors. And, subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Categories
Transparent Watercolor Watercolor Paint

Which Watercolor Paints Are Transparent

I first learned which watercolor paints are transparent by reading Jim Kosvanec’s book, “Transparent Watercolor Wheel: A Logical and Easy-to-use System for Taking the Guesswork out of Mixing Colours” (affiliate link) first published by Watson-Guptill on May 1, 1994. They republished it in paperback on April 15, 2000. However, both editions are no longer in print. But, you can buy it from used book dealers on Amazon. You can also borrow a copy from your local public library.

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You can also determine what watercolors are transparent by downloading color charts from brand-name watercolor paint companies. My favorite brands are Winsor Newton and Holbein. Follow the links below to download their color charts:

Jim Kosvanec’s Color Choices

Jim Kosvanec did extensive studies of watercolor paints and developed a color chart that categorizes color names into “rings” on a color wheel, as follows:

  • Ring 1 – Transparent Non-Staining
  • Ring 2 – Simi-Transparent Non-Staining
  • Ring 3 – Transparent Staining
  • Ring 4 – Semi-Opaque & Opaque
  • Ring 5 – Whitened & Blackened

Transparent Watercolor Colors

There are two groups of transparent watercolor colors. They are “non-staining” and “staining” found in Ring 1 and Ring 3 of Jim Kosvanec’s color wheel.

Ring 1 – Transparent Non-Staining Colors

Ring 3 – Transparent Staining Colors

Beware When Mixing Transparent Staining Colors

Transparent staining colors in Ring 3 only mix well with other staining colors in the same Ring 3. If you try to mix Ring 3 colors with Ring 1 transparent non-staining colors, the staining color will overpower the non-staining colors. They will also overpower other colors in Ring 2 and 4.

Mixing Ring 1 & Ring 2 Colors

To quote Jim on what colors mix well, he said:

Transparents mix or glaze with other transparents without restrictions. Transparents mix well with all others pigments except staining colors, which can “dye” them. Semi-transparents may be used like transparents but with more restraint.

~ Jim Kosvanec

Ring 2 – Semi-Transparent Colors

Here are the semi-transparent watercolors Jim Kosvanec classified as Ring 2 on his color wheel. These colors mix well with Ring 1 transparent colors identified above.

I use Ring 1 transparent non-staining colors for glazing my first layers of color. Then I add colors from Ring 2 for depth and darker tones where needed. And, for my darkest darks, I use colors from Ring 3 sparingly.

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