Watercolor Pencils in Art Pencils(85)

Watercolor pencils combine the control of colored pencils with the fluidity of watercolors. To use them effectively:

• Start by drawing your design lightly on watercolor paper.
• Apply colors with the pencils as you would with regular colored pencils.
• Use a wet brush to gently blend and activate the pigments, creating a watercolor effect.
• Layer colors by letting each layer dry before adding more for depth.

This technique allows for detailed work and smooth washes, ideal for artists who want versatility in their artwork.

Watercolor pencils are unique because their pigments are water-soluble, unlike regular colored pencils. This means:

• You can use them dry like traditional colored pencils for detailed lines.
• When water is applied with a brush, the pigment dissolves and spreads like watercolor paint.
• This dual functionality offers more creative options, such as blending colors smoothly or creating washes.

Regular colored pencils don't react with water, so they stay fixed on the paper without blending in this way.

Blending watercolor pencils can be done using several tools depending on the effect you want:

• Water and a soft brush: Activates the pigment for smooth, painterly blends.
• Blending stumps or tortillons: Useful for dry blending to soften edges without water.
• Colorless blender pencils: Help mix colors gently while dry.

Choosing the right tool depends on whether you want a wet or dry finish, so experimenting can help find your preferred style.

While watercolor pencils are primarily designed for watercolor paper, they can be used on other surfaces with some considerations:

• Watercolor paper: Best for absorbing water and pigment evenly.
• Canvas: You can use watercolor pencils on primed canvas, but the texture may affect smooth blending.
• Mixed media paper: Works well if it's thick enough to handle water without warping.

Keep in mind that non-paper surfaces might require sealing afterward to protect the artwork.

Proper storage helps maintain the quality and longevity of your watercolor pencils. Consider these tips:

• Keep them in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and warping.
• Store pencils in their original tin or a pencil case to protect the tips from damage.
• Avoid dropping or applying heavy pressure to prevent breakage.
• If you have a large set, organizing by color can make it easier to find the shades you need quickly.

Good storage practices ensure your pencils stay sharp and ready for your next creative project.