How to Master Water Control in Watercolour

Have you ever struggled with watercolour paint that spreads too much, edges that are too harsh, or colours that turn muddy? You’re not alone – and the secret to solving all of this is learning to control water.

In my latest beginner-friendly class, I’ll show you exactly how to handle wet, damp, and dry paper, and how this affects your paint. You’ll see the difference immediately in a fun, simple exercise: painting a loose peony flower.

What You’ll Learn in This Class

• The three stages of water control and how to use them.
• How to create soft, flowing blooms without losing shape.
• Techniques for adding depth and definition as your flower dries.
• Simple tips for making your paintings look professional even as a beginner.

This class is perfect to understand water control and if you want a quick win that actually looks like art. You’ll finish the lesson with a beautiful peony, all while learning the core skill that makes every watercolour painting easier and more predictable.

Why It Works

The beauty of this lesson is that it’s visual and hands on. You’ll start by experimenting with three small squares showing wet, damp, and dry paint behaviour, then apply the same principles to your peony. By the end, you’ll see that controlling water isn’t about “painting perfectly” – it’s about letting the water work for you.

Ready to master water control and create your own stunning watercolour blooms?

View the full class here and start painting with confidence today!