Loose Watercolor Seaside Tutorial
Forget the usual broad washes—this watercolor seaside scene with coastal homes uses an unconventional, block-by-block approach. Loose, expressive, and full of fresh surprises.
You don’t always have to follow the traditional rules of watercolor. Most seaside scenes begin with broad washes that cover the entire paper. But in this tutorial, I’ll show you a different way—a direct, block-by-block approach that feels more like painting with acrylics, but still keeps the freshness and sparkle of watercolor.
Why This Approach Works
It may look unconventional, but this direct method keeps your watercolor fresh, alive, and expressive. By skipping the blanket washes, you gain flexibility and spontaneity—and you allow the medium to surprise you along the way.
Continue Learning
👉 Next stop: the Watercolor Tutorials Hub to keep building your skills.
Recommended Watercolor Materials
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Holbein Professional Watercolor Paints – 8 Essential Hues
Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Lemon Yellow, Ultramarine Blue, Cerulean Blue, Alizarin Crimson, Cadmium Red Light, Neutral Tint, Burnt Sienna -
Fabriano Artistico Watercolor Paper – 140lb Cold Press
Buy full sheets and cut into quarter sheets for best value -
Silver Jumbo Wash Brush
Great coverage, excellent quality for the price -
Princeton Neptune Point Rounds (No. 12 & 6)
Reliable and affordable detail & wash brushes -
Princeton Neptune Dagger (1/2")
Versatile size for lines, edges, and detail work -
Masterson Aqua Pro Palette
Durable, with deep wells for generous mixing space -
Gator Board
Lightweight, long-lasting painting support board -
Holbein White Gouache
Optional for highlights and fine details - Miscellaneous: plastic water containers, paper towels, masking tape
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