How to paint a watercolour portrait!

Portraits present such an exciting art challenge, from capturing proportions to rendering features. Painting flesh tones can be tricky, especially in watercolour which is notoriously unforgiving – but the beautiful translucent effects make it well worth the effort! I hope this blog will give you the confidence to have a go.

Step 1: Draw your outline lightly on watercolour paper (at least 300gsm) using an HB pencil. You may wish to lighten your drawing using a rubber – the lines should be as faint as possible.

Step 2: Look closely at your reference image. Where are the lightest and darkest areas? Where are the soft edges and the hard ones? What kind of cool and warm tones can you observe in the skin tones.

Step 3: Mix three colours for your flesh tones and test them in your sketchbook. You will probably use some combination of crimson red, yellow ochre and a hint of blue/green for paler flesh tones, adding some burnt sienna for darker skin. Tip: for the darker/shadow areas, use purples not grey/black to keep the skin looking lively!