Washes & Wells

Materials & Tools

Plain, hype-free advice on what to buy and, just as importantly, what to skip. We explain why a handful of artist-grade colors beats a giant student set, what cold-press paper does that printer paper can't, when to reach for a round brush versus a flat, why 140 lb paper buckles less, and how a clean palette and a second water jar quietly improve every wash — so your starter kit costs less and does more.

Materials & Tools

9 guides
Materials & Tools

Round vs Flat Brushes: Which Watercolor Brush Does What

Learn the practical differences between round and flat watercolor brushes, when to use each shape, and how to build a simple starter set.

July 3, 2026
Materials & Tools

Why Watercolor Paper Buckles and How to Stretch or Tape It

Learn why watercolor paper warps when wet and the two simplest fixes: stretching or taping your paper before you paint.

June 30, 2026
Materials & Tools

Watercolor Paint for Beginners: Tubes vs Pans Explained

Confused about watercolor tubes vs pans? Here's what actually matters for beginners so you can pick the right format and start painting.

June 24, 2026
Materials & Tools

Do You Need a Watercolor Palette? Setting One Up and Keeping It Clean

Learn how to set up a watercolor palette for beginners: which type to choose, how to arrange your colors, and how to keep it clean between sessions.

June 22, 2026
Materials & Tools

How to Carry Watercolor Supplies for Painting Outdoors

A practical gear guide for beginners: the minimum kit you need to paint outdoors, what to leave home, and how to handle wind, sun, and fast-drying paint.

June 19, 2026
Materials & Tools

The Best Budget Watercolor Starter Kit and What to Skip

Build a solid watercolor starter kit without overspending. Learn which budget supplies actually work and what cheap options to avoid.

June 17, 2026
Materials & Tools

Student vs Artist Grade Watercolor: What's Worth It for Beginners

Choosing between student vs artist grade watercolor? Here's what actually differs, and which one is worth buying when you're just starting out.

June 13, 2026
Materials & Tools

Watercolor Paper Explained: Cold Press, Hot Press, and Rough

Watercolor paper explained: learn the real differences between cold press, hot press, and rough so you buy the right surface first time.

June 9, 2026
Materials & Tools

How to Choose Your First Watercolor Brushes

Find the best watercolor brushes for beginners: which shapes and sizes to start with, what to skip, and how to test before you buy.

June 5, 2026

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