Method 1:
Take a very thick sheet of watercolor paper and either wet the entire sheet thoroughly with water beforehand, or, as I do, apply a large amount of water only in a specific area where we are going to work. This creates a so-called “puddle”. Into this puddle, we then introduce the pigment we need. The water itself blends the colors as I want, and I only make slight adjustments with the brush.
Method 2:
In this approach, paint is applied in a thin layer on a dry paper surface. This layer dries, and then we apply a second thin layer of paint. Once the second layer dries, we add a third layer, and so on. There can be up to 10 layers. What is essential here is to let each previous layer dry completely, 100%. That way, we can freely apply the next layer without it blending into the previous one, achieving the desired shade. In this method, there won’t be any “muddying” of the colors. This technique is called glazing – working in thin layers that fully dry between applications.
Method 3:
This is my favorite technique – combining the first and second methods. First, we create “puddles” using water. The colors blend beautifully, spreading softly, creating a sense of clarity and the magical quality of watercolor. This layer dries completely, and then I apply thin glazing layers over it, refining facial features, eyes, perhaps the nose, hair, or any other details as needed.