Can You Paint Watercolor on Canvas?
While traditionally, watercolor paints are applied to paper, you can indeed paint with watercolors on canvas. It might not be as straightforward as using oils or acrylics on canvas, but with the right preparation and techniques, it is entirely possible. Painting with watercolors gives you a unique, vibrant, and delicate look that can't be achieved with other types of paint. It opens up a new range of possibilities for your artwork, allowing you to experiment with lightness, transparency and fluidity. However, it requires patience and practice, as the watercolor behaves differently on canvas than paper.
Preparing Canvas for Watercolor Painting
The key to successful watercolor painting on canvas is preparation. Standard canvas doesn't absorb water like watercolor paper does, so it needs to be prepped first to ensure the paint doesn't bead up on the surface. The most common way to prepare a canvas for watercolor is by applying a layer of watercolor ground or absorbent gesso. This coating creates a surface that can absorb watercolor paint in a similar way to paper. It's important to apply several layers, allowing each one to dry thoroughly before applying the next. Once the final layer is dry, your canvas is ready for watercolor painting.
Techniques for Painting Watercolor on Canvas
Watercolor techniques on canvas are similar to those used on paper, but some adjustments need to be made due to the different surface. Washes can be applied, but they need to be done quickly as the paint dries faster on canvas. Wet-on-wet techniques can also be used, but remember, the canvas doesn't stay wet as long as paper. Layering colors is another technique that works well on canvas. Remember, the watercolor will lift more easily from the canvas than paper, so be careful when applying new layers over dried ones. Experiment and practice to discover what works best for your style.
Shopping Watercolor Supplies at The Sydney Art Store
For those keen on trying their hand at painting with watercolors on canvas, The Sydney Art Store is your one-stop shop. Our online store, https://thesydneyartstore.com.au/, stocks a wide range of quality watercolor paints and canvases suitable for watercolor painting. We also have watercolor grounds and absorbent gessos to prepare your canvas. At The Sydney Art Store, we're committed to supporting your creative journey, offering all the supplies you need to explore the wonderful world of watercolor painting on canvas.
