Here’s a little easy, relaxing, no-pressure art project you can try at home!
I love playing with abstracts when you want to experiment with color mixing and not worry about “getting it right.”
First grab these supplies (Amazon links are associate links*):
- watercolor paints (I use this Koi brand tray set, my kids use a tray set from Michael’s)
- brushes + water
- thick paper or watercolor paper cut into small rectangles
- optional: oil pastels, Nupastels, or chalk pastels for layering
- optional: fixative spray for sealing
Instructions
- Choose a color palette of three to five colors. I LOVE pinning color palettes on Pinterest. Here’s my board for ideas that I pulled from for color inspiration.
2. Cut your paper to the desired size rectangles. I was working small and cute. I recommend working on multiple paintings so you can experiment working free and loose with low anxiety about the final product!
3. Begin with a wet brush and work on mixing your first color. Start with a swipe of color from your color palette. Thinking about going from darker to lighter.
4. Add multiple blocks and lines of color as you mix new colors. Try some thin and some thick.
4. Add some variation in texture with pastels or oils pastels. *If you’re using oil pastels, make sure your watercolors dry first before beginning.*
Think of adding colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. The more opposite you get on the wheel, the more the colors will pop against each other. Choose your “pop” wisely.
Add additional blocks of color on top of your watercolor stripes or add some new thinner stripes.
5. Choose your favorite painting and tag me on Instagram or Facebook! I’d love to see what you create! @marydeandraws
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process!
Here are some results when we tried this project with our neighbor friends:
Additional ideas
- Frame your mini painting by mounting it on a piece of paper (try a darker color of plain white).
- Write your favorite Bible verse around or under your abstract painting.
- Upcycle an old promotional magnet and glue your painting to the front for a pretty new fridge magnet.
*affiliate link. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
