David Webb looks at how to use multiple washes to build up your watercolour paintings with a step-by-step demonstration to paint Fernworthy Clapper Bridge.
There is more than one way of applying watercolour to the paper surface to create a painting and here David explains the multiple-wash method.
For more great advice on watercolour painting, see our ultimate guide.
What is a multiple wash?
A multiple was involves a series of layers or washes which are built up gradually to achieve a variety of tonal values from the lightest lights to the darkest darks, using the whiteness of the paper to achieve luminosity.
Why would you use a multiple wash?
Whatever the subject, a painting needs to show a full range of tonal values from the lightest lights to the darkest darks. The multiple-wash method provides a way of achieving this.
Endeavour to complete a painting in three washes (see details below), although it may sometimes require an extra wash in really dark areas.
The washes
Wash one - The first palest wash covers most or all of the paper. Any highlights will need to be either masked or painted around.
Wash two - The second darker-toned wash is then applied, covering only the middle-toned area.
Wash three - Finally, the darkest tones are applied, carefully avoiding highlights and light areas.
An example of a multiple wash
Seen Better Days, watercolour on Bockingford NOT 200lb (425gsm) watercolour paper, (23x33cm)
The painting Seen Better Days (above) clearly illustrates how several washes have been overlaid to create a feeling of solidity in the boat wreck lying in the mud. The lightest, sunlit parts of the wreck are achieved in the initial, palest wash. The mid-tones along the sides are achieved by applying a second, darker wash over the first. Finally, the darkest darks of the interior ribs and cracks are painted over the previous two washes.
Demonstration: Fernworthy Clapper Bridge
Fernworthy Clapper Bridge, watercolour on Bockingford NOT 200lb (425gsm) watercolour paper, (19x28cm)
This Dartmoor scene has interesting variety of tonal values which lends itself to the multiple-wash method.
Before you begin:
Make five separate dilutions of your five colours.
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