abstract watercolor books

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• Watercolours

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Creative Abstract Watercolor: The beginner's guide to expressive and imaginative painting Paperback – 19 Mar. 2024

Purchase options and add-ons.

Learn how to create dynamic, original abstract art using easy techniques and nothing more than watercolor paints and a few pens. Let your creativity loose and start making art, without getting bogged down in detail or accuracy - just allow yourself to experiment, have fun, be present and play with colour, shape and texture to your heart's content. In this unique step-by-step book, you'll discover watercolor techniques, tips and tricks to create your own vibrant art, letting the natural watercolor flow to help form your composition and inspire further mixed media embellishment. Author Kate Rebecca Leach of Essoldo Design has amassed a huge following online for her beautiful abstract artworks. In her debut book, she generously shares her techniques so that even complete beginners will be able to pick up a brush and create stunning works of art. Through a variety of projects, including simple shapes, abstract botanicals, and expressive landscapes, you'll learn easy techniques to combine color, texture, and contrast in exciting ways, and how to add gorgeous embellishments using gel pens and metallics to make your abstract pieces shine. Using this book, you'll be able to create art that you'll be proud to display in your home, gift to friends and family and develop your own portfolio, while having a lot of creative fun in the process.

• Print length 120 pages
• Language English
• Publisher David & Charles
• Publication date 19 Mar. 2024
• Dimensions 20.96 x 1.91 x 27.31 cm
• ISBN-10 1446310566
• ISBN-13 978-1446310564
• See all details

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From the Publisher

Product description

About the author, excerpt. © reprinted by permission. all rights reserved..

Watercolor has had a huge impact on my life and mental health. Some may choose meditation or yoga, but for me, the uncomplicated and freeing nature of abstract watercolor is a form of mindfulness. It allows me to switch off, unplug from the digital world, and unwind from the day-to-day pressures we all face. In this book, you’ll discover the best painting materials that I’ve found through much research, and even more trial and error. With a modest set of paints, a jam jar of water, a few brushes, and some paper, you will be all set to embark on your watercolor journey. There are simple techniques to help you create shapes and patterns, and step-by-step projects that let the paint lead the way. Discover new color palettes, mark-making and masking tricks as you create your art. By writing this book, my aim is to share the simple skills required to create watercolor art fit to grace the finest of walls! Not only will it arm you with the skills to help you create, but also (hopefully!) the encouragement and inspiration to find your own style. Happy painting!

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ David & Charles (19 Mar. 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 120 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1446310566
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1446310564
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 20.96 x 1.91 x 27.31 cm
• 2 in Watercolour Painting Techniques
• 35 in Hobbies & Crafts

About the author

Kate rebecca leach.

Kate Rebecca Leach is an artist, illustrator and tutor based in Hertfordshire, UK. She founded her brand, Essoldo Design, in

2020 and since then has been lucky enough to have built a community of over 125,000 Instagram followers, sold her work in more 35 countries worldwide, and licensed products across the UK, Europe, and the USA. Creative Abstract Watercolor is Kate’s first book.

Kate would love to see how you’re using the book and your experiments with abstract watercolors. Share your photos on social media using the hashtag #EssoldoAbstractWatercolor for your chance to feature on her social media channels! You can find out more about Kate and her art here:

Instagram + Facebook: @essoldodesign

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The 7 Best Watercolor Books for Artists in 2024

Techniques and tutorials for the complete beginner.

The Society for All Artists

Painting Light and Color in Landscapes and Cityscapes

Let’s step into the shoes of a young artist, one who has grown tired of sketching in notebooks with colored pencils, seeking a fresh medium to convey their art in a way that is both expressive and beautiful. In our quest for new artistic avenues, we stumble upon something unique: watercolor paints. 

And, it’s love at first sight. 

Watercolor painting is an art form that plays with water and pigments, it’s well-loved for its versatility and is usually the first medium of many, many artists.

However, not everything is roses and sunshine, once you reach a certain level, you’ll find yourself stuck. No matter how good your observational skills are or how much you’ve learned of other mediums, you can only get so far without needing to master more advanced watercolor techniques, and that can be challenging if you don’t have any classes, study material, or a good book to learn from.

But how can we start exploring this vast world? This technique indeed has a lot to offer, but it can be daunting for beginners. Therefore, in this article, we’ll provide a general overview of what is like working with watercolors and we’ll list and recommend the best watercolor books you can find and use to improve your technique or learn something new.

Let’s get started!

How to Find a Good Watercolor Book

Author’s experience.

The author’s experience and knowledge are essential to determine the quality of the content of a watercolor book (and any instructive book for that matter) without having to read it. While anyone can write a book that includes technical data or some trivial facts about watercolors, only a few can write a truly enriching book that offers practical advice and shares authentic work and experiences. 

The authors of these books are usually well-known figures in the field of watercolors, such as teachers or independent artists with a big following. Therefore, investigating the author’s background is always a must.

Technique and Style 

Although it is essential to start with books that teach the basics, such as the fundamentals of light and shadows, it is also important to consider books focused on specific techniques or styles. These can be very useful for reinforcing skills in particular areas or learning new techniques. Evaluate whether you need a book for beginners before opting for one specialized in a topic such as jungle fauna painting or a book that teaches about advanced glazing techniques.

Reading the Reviews

Reading the reviews about the book we are choosing is another way to see if the book is a good fit. This might seem obvious, but sometimes, we don’t pay attention to the reviews other users share and end up disappointed when our book is not what we expected. The cover and a few pages are the only things we can see when making an online purchase, so reading through the reviews is always a good idea. There’s nothing like learning from someone who read, put into practice, and shared the results of the guidance that the book provided. 

Lastly, price is an important factor to consider as well. Since watercolors are generally not as expensive as other painting techniques, for beginners,  investing in quality books or guides can be a wise decision. If you’re looking to really get into the medium, invest in a couple of great books that teach the basics back and forth, and then learn a few specialized techniques or styles that complement your own.

Best Watercolor Books for Artists in 2024

• Best Watercolor Book Overall — Watercolor: Techniques and Tutorials for the Complete Beginner
• Best Landscape Watercolor Book — Watercolour for the Absolute Beginner: The Society for All Artists
• Best Watercolor Book of Landscapes and Urban Areas —  Watercolor Techniques: Painting Light and Color in Landscapes and Cityscapes
• Best Watercolor Book for Natural Environments — Wilderness Watercolor Landscapes: 30 Eye-Catching Scenes Anyone Can Master
• Best Watercolor Book for Jungle Environments — Watercolor with Me in the Jungle
• Best Watercolor Book for Skies and Atmospheres — David Bellamy’s Skies, Light & Atmosphere in Watercolour
• Best Watercolor Book for Textures — Texture Techniques for Winning Watercolors   

#1. Best Watercolor Book Overall — Watercolor: Techniques and Tutorials for the Complete Beginner

Selection Criteria

• Our Score: 9/10
• Our Score: 8/10
• Our Score: 7/10

About Watercolor: Techniques and Tutorials for the Complete Beginner.

Aimed at beginners determined to learn watercolors, this book lays the foundation for mastering the art of watercolor with a complete guide to the tools and materials needed, an introduction to basic techniques, and very illustrative step-by-step paintings.

As a plus, three special sections are included that focus on areas of particular interest to beginners, including special effects, colors, trees, and skies. The clear instructions and tips are great for beginners, and even intermediate painters will find these techniques useful.

2. Best Landscape Watercolor Book — Watercolour for the Absolute Beginner

About Watercolour for the Absolute Beginner

Watercolor for the Absolute Beginner is a book that focuses on the beauty of landscaping and nature. It teaches excellent tips for beginners, starting with drawings, compositions, lights, shadows, perspectives, etc., all in a very simple way, perfect to introduce beginners to painting landscapes with watercolor. The increasing difficulty of each exercise makes sure that progress is continuous and we do not stagnate at any time, and the exercises are good even for intermediate and experienced artists. Light and Color in Landscapes

3. Best Watercolor Book of Landscapes and Urban Areas — Light and Color in Landscapes

View prices, about watercolor techniques.

“There is no other technique more enjoyable and magical than watercolors” That’s what artist and author Michael Reardon tells us. In his book “Watercolor Techniques: Painting Light and Color in Landscapes and Cityscapes,” Reardon covers everything from answers to the most perplexing questions for beginners. What is the correct ratio of paint to water? How to apply an even coat? Why does my painting look so faded? This book helps beginners and students to understand the triple role of perspective, value, and color. It shows us how to paint sparkling whites and shimmering shadows, giving the atmosphere of a specific place and time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, you will feel a notable change in your work if you read and put into practice the teachings of this book.

4. Best Watercolor Book for Natural Environments — Wilderness Watercolor Landscapes

About Wilderness Watercolor Landscapes

From stunning desert sunset silhouettes to majestic Icelandic waterfalls and surprisingly magical snowy forests, watercolorist Colby Bloom’s wild scenes are the perfect introduction to watercolor painting.

Colby’s step-by-step instructions make painting stunning landscapes easy by introducing all the key elements of nature painting and teaching beginner techniques for painting skies, mountains, trees, wildflowers, oceans, lakes, and more.

This book has a more contemporary approach to watercolors than the classics, which makes it a great choice for beginners and advanced artists alike.

5. Best Watercolor Book for Jungle Environments — Watercolor with Me in the Jungle

About watercolor with me in the jungle.

A perfect balance between knowledge and practice, in this book you can learn to draw all types of wildlife flora and fauna thanks to Dan’s simple method and easy-to-follow instructions that will guide you through every step of the watercolor painting process, so That no matter your skill level, you’ll always get frame-worthy results when it comes to painting fur details on adorable animals like sloths and monkeys or layering colors to create eye-catching patterns like Bengal tigers and poisonous frogs. Because each project is printed on high-quality specialty art paper, you can draw directly on the page. A very practical and entertaining book when learning to use watercolors.

6. Best Watercolor Book for Skies and Atmospheres — Skies, Light & Atmosphere in Watercolour

About david bellamy’s skies, light & atmosphere in watercolour.

It is undeniable that some of the best subjects when painting with watercolors are the skies or atmospheres, and David Bellamy’s mastery of these is captured in this book is both inspiring and practical when it comes to understanding and improving these. themes.

Bellamy’s experience shines as he guides readers through the complexities of painting different sky and light conditions. This book is a valuable resource for artists looking to infuse realism and atmosphere into their watercolor works.

7. Best Watercolor Book for Textures — Texture Techniques for Winning Watercolors

About texture techniques for winning watercolors.

Discover powerful ways to bring your watercolors to life with Ray Hendershot texturing. “Conquering Texture Techniques in Watercolor” fills the gap left by other books by delving into the details that separate a good technique from a great one. With Hendershot’s guidance, he can increase the emotional impact of his paintings by capturing a wider range of moods through strategic texturing techniques such as spraying, misting, streaking, and blotting.

Hendershot delves into various techniques such as spraying, misting, streaking, and blotting, demonstrating how these methods can be employed to create striking effects. He emphasizes the importance of texture in conveying atmosphere and emotion, showing how the right textural touch can add a layer of richness and complexity to a watercolor piece.

So, What’s So Special About Watercolors?

The art of watercolor balances freedom and control, the constant fluctuations of these two factors often result in effects that look messy but attractive. Interestingly, many of these effects are the result of happy accidents rather than detailed planning, that’s why knowing when to take a more spontaneous approach is essential when working with watercolors.

Getting started in the watercolor world can be easier with a good guide or starting point. In the section below you will find our curated book recommendation list that will pave the way into into this medium for you, teach you new techniques if you already have experience with watercolors, and give you all the insights, tips, and tricks only artists can give.

Watercolor Vs. Oil Painting

Watercolors, being water-based, dry much faster than oil or acrylic paints, which can take days. This is useful for layering watercolor, although it also complicates modification once applied. But, this also makes working with watercolors more dynamic and faster!

With watercolors, it is possible to make works of art using a single color, simply varying the amount of water to obtain different shades. More water gives a lighter, more subtle tone, while less water intensifies the color.

Oil Paints Can Be Quite Expensive, Watercolors On the Other Side…

Watercolors are usually more affordable than oil paints, which makes starting with watercolors a cheaper and more enjoyable option for beginners. Although it is easy to make mistakes with watercolors, their low cost and fewer materials needed make them more attractive than oil paints. Plus, they are easier to carry from one place to another, making them an excellent option for traveling artists who want to put together a compact travel kit.

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Creative Abstract Watercolor: The Beginner's Guide to Expressive and Imaginative Painting Paperback – 19 Mar. 2024

Purchase options and add-ons.

Using this book, you'll be able to create art that you'll be proud to display in your home, gift to friends and family and develop your own portfolio, while having a lot of creative fun in the process.

• Print length 120 pages
• Language English
• Publisher David & Charles
• Publication date 19 Mar. 2024
• Dimensions 20.96 x 1.91 x 27.31 cm
• ISBN-10 1446310566
• ISBN-13 978-1446310564
• See all details

Frequently bought together

Customers who viewed this item also viewed

Product description

About the author, excerpt. © reprinted by permission. all rights reserved..

In this book, you’ll discover the best painting materials that I’ve found through  much  research, and even more trial and error. With a modest set of paints, a jam jar of water, a few brushes, and some paper, you will be all set to embark on your watercolor journey. There are simple techniques to help you create shapes and patterns, and step-by-step projects that let the paint lead the way. Discover new color palettes, mark-making and masking tricks as you create your art.

By writing this book, my aim is to share the simple skills required to create watercolor art fit to grace the finest of walls! Not only will it arm you with the skills to help you create, but also (hopefully!) the encouragement and inspiration to find your own style.

Happy painting!

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ David & Charles (19 Mar. 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 120 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1446310566
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1446310564
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 20.96 x 1.91 x 27.31 cm
• 18 in Watercolour Painting Techniques
• 592 in Hobbies & Crafts
• 10,535 in English Books

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Although slightly damaged, all hurt copies are perfectly usable. Books may have bent or scratched covers and/or dented spines. All interior pages are 100% clean. Please note these books are only available from our website whilst stocks last!

• Publisher: David & Charles
• Edition: BC Paperback
• Publication: 31 March 2024
• ISBN 13/EAN: 9781446310564
• Product Code: 9781446310564
• Carton Qty: 27
• Size: 210x273 mm
• Illustrations: 240
• RRP: £16.99

Creative Abstract Watercolor

The Beginner's guide to expressive and imaginative painting by Kate Rebecca Leach

Learn how to create dynamic, original abstract art using easy techniques and nothing more than watercolour paints and a few pens.

Let your creativity loose and start making art, without getting bogged down in detail or accuracy - just allow yourself to experiment, have fun, be present and play with colour, shape and texture to your heart's content.

In this unique step-by-step book, you'll discover watercolour techniques, tips and tricks to create your own vibrant art, letting the natural watercolour flow to help form your composition and inspire further mixed media embellishment.

Through a variety of projects, including simple shapes, abstract botanicals, and expressive landscapes, you'll learn easy techniques to combine colour, texture, and contrast in exciting ways, and how to add gorgeous embellishments using gel pens and metallic paints to make your abstract pieces shine.

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Creative Abstract Watercolor | See the projects in the book!

Kate Rebecca Leach, author and artist behind Creative Abstract Watercolor has spilled the beans, figuratively, of course. Watercolor painting can seem daunting – one wrong stroke and the piece is doomed, but fear no more, this abstract watercolor guide shows you how to make the most stunning artwork from simple techniques, and embrace the free-flowing creativity that comes with abstract art.

Follow Kate’s detailed guidance and create a variety of projects, perfect for beginners and beyond! Let’s take a quick look at some of the gorgeous designs included…

The main projects are then split into 3 different sections; Abstract Shapes, Abstract Botanicals, and Abstract Landscapes. Here’s some of the pieces you can expect to see in those sections:

Read more about Kate’s debut book, Creative Abstract Watercolor here.

If you’d like to see more of Kate’s work you can join her followers on Instagram here.

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17 Best Watercolor Books to Help You Master the Medium

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The Best Watercolor Books

If you’re looking for the best watercolor books to help take your painting to the next level, look no further. Here are 15 of the best watercolor books on the market, perfect for artists of all levels.

Affiliate Disclaimer:  This post may contain affiliate links, which means I will receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links.

Best Watercolor Painting Books

There is no one answer to this question as different people have different preferences for what makes a good watercolor painting book.

However, some factors that could be considered when choosing a book include the quality of the paper, the variety of painting techniques demonstrated, and the overall aesthetic of the book.

Additionally, it is important to make sure that the book is geared toward your skill level so that you can get the most out of it. The books below were selected with these points in mind. Read on.

Watercolors Books by Cathy Johnson

The Watercolors Books by Cathy Johnson are a great way to learn about watercolors and how to use them.

They provide step-by-step instructions on various painting techniques, as well as helpful tips and tricks.

The books also feature beautiful artwork by the author, which is sure to inspire budding artists of all ages.

1. Painting Nature’s Details in Watercolor

If you love painting from nature and want to create your next watercolor masterpiece but feel like you always end up with paintings that lack the nuance and detail of the real thing, this book is for you.

Painting Nature’s Details in Watercolor will show you how to capture all the little details that make a scene truly special.

From leaves and branches to rocks and dirt, you’ll learn how to paint everything in exquisite detail. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to improve their painting skills and create stunning works of art.

2. Painting Nature in Watercolor with Cathy Johnson

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, Cathy Johnson’s Painting Nature in Watercolor can help you capture the beauty of the natural world around you while producing high quality work.

With 37 step-by-step demonstrations, she takes you through the process of using watercolor pencils and paints to create stunning landscapes, flowers, and other nature scenes.

You’ll learn how to choose the right colors, mix paints, and use a variety of brushstrokes to bring your artwork to life.

3. Watercolor Pencil Magic

Cathy Johnson’s Watercolor Pencil Magic is the perfect way to add a splash of color to your artwork! These water-soluble pencils are easy to use and produce beautiful results.

With over 50 colors to choose from, you can create stunning paintings and drawings that will wow your friends and family.

4. The Sierra Club Guide to Painting in Nature

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, The Sierra Club Guide to Painting in Nature will help you capture the beauty of the natural world around you.

This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions for painting landscapes, flowers, trees, and wildlife.

You’ll also find tips on choosing the right supplies and equipment, and how to set up your workspace outdoors.

5. Creating Textures in Watercolor

Cathy Johnson is a world-renowned watercolor artist, and in this book, she shares her secrets for creating stunning texture effects.

You’ll learn how to add interest and dimension to your paintings with a variety of techniques, from layering washes to using masking fluid.

With step-by-step instructions and beautiful examples, this book is essential for any watercolor artist who wants to take their work to the next level.

6. Watercolor Tricks & Techniques

If you’re looking to take your watercolor skills to the next level, this book is for you. Packed with 75 new and classic painting secrets, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to improve their watercolor skills.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s something in here for everyone. From tips on how to get the perfect brushstrokes to advice on choosing the right colors, this book has it all.

7. Everyday Watercolor Flowers

Start your watercolor journey with Jenna Rainey’s Everyday Watercolor Flowers! This modern guide will teach you how to paint blooms, leaves, and stems step-by-step.

You’ll learn essential watercolor techniques while creating beautiful floral paintings. With Jenna’s easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be painting like a pro in no time!

8. The Watercolorist’s Essential Notebook – Landscapes

If you’re passionate about painting landscapes in watercolor, this is the essential notebook for you.

Gordon MacKenzie shares his years of experience and experimentation in landscape painting, revealing tricks and techniques that will take your paintings to the next level.

With its clear and concise instructions, beautiful illustrations, and helpful tips, this notebook is your go-to guide for creating stunning watercolor landscapes.

9. Jean Haines’ World of Watercolour

If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to watercolor painting, look no further than Jean Haines’ World of Watercolour.

This book covers everything from choosing the right supplies to mixing colors and creating different effects.

With easy-to-follow instructions and plenty of tips and tricks, it’s the perfect resource for anyone wanting to improve their watercolor painting skills.

10. Modern Watercolor Botanicals

Are you interested in learning how to paint beautiful modern watercolor botanicals or enjoy the joy of watercolor? Sarah Simon’s Modern Watercolor Botanicals: A Creative Workshop in Watercolor, Gouache, & Ink is the perfect book for you!

This beautiful book provides clear and concise instructions on painting a variety of different botanical subjects. You will learn how to mix colors, create interesting textures, and layer different mediums to create stunning effects.

11. 15-Minute Watercolor Masterpieces

Are you curious about watercolor painting, but unsure of where to start? 15-Minute Watercolor Masterpieces is the perfect introduction to the medium! In just a few simple steps, you’ll be creating frame-worthy art that will wow your friends and family.

You don’t need any prior experience or expensive supplies to get started. Just grab a few inexpensive watercolors and some paper, and you’re ready to go!

12. Creative Watercolor

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, Creative Watercolor is the perfect guide to help you unleash your creativity with paints, inks, markers, glitter, and more!

This step-by-step guide provides everything you need to know to get started with watercolor painting, including helpful tips and techniques for achieving beautiful results.

With Creative Watercolor, you’ll be able to create stunning artwork that expresses your unique vision and style.

13. Watercolor for the Absolute Beginner

Are you an amateur artist when it comes to watercolor painting? If so, then this is the perfect product for you! The Society for All Artists (ABSOLUTE BEGINNER ART) by Matthew Palmer is a great way to get started with watercolor painting.

This book is a complete guide and a fresh approach that will teach you all of the basics that you need to know in order to get started with this type of painting.

14. The Joy of Watercolor

Do you have an artistic side that’s dying to be set free? The Joy of Watercolor is the perfect book to help you get started with painting.

It includes 40 lessons that will teach you how to paint different subject matter, from landscapes and seascapes to portraits and still lifes.

You’ll quickly fall in love with the process of watercolor painting, and the finished products will bring you joy every time you look at them.

15. Watercolor Workshop: Learn to Paint in 100 Experiments

If you are looking to improve your watercolor painting skills? Check out Watercolor Workshop: Learn to Paint in 100 Experiments by Sasha Prood.

This book is full of easy-to-follow experiments that will help you master the basics of watercolor painting.

Covering everything from mixing colors to creating different effects, Watercolor Workshop is the perfect guide for anyone wanting to learn how to paint with watercolors.

16. DIY Watercolor Flowers

This book is the perfect guide for anyone who wants to learn how to watercolor paint flowers. With easy-to-follow instructions and beautiful photography, you will be able to create your own stunning artwork in no time.

Whether you want to use your new skills for journal pages, handmade stationery, or something else entirely, this book will give you everything you need to get started.

17. Watercolor Painting

This book is the perfect guide for those who want to master watercolor painting. It covers all the essentials, from choosing the right supplies to mixing colors, to creating different effects.

Tom Hoffmann’s clear and concise explanations make complex concepts easy to understand, and his step-by-step approach makes them easy to follow.

With this book, you’ll be able to create beautiful watercolor paintings that will impress your friends and family.

Final Thoughts on The Best Watercolor Books

In conclusion, the 15 best watercolor books are a great way to get started with learning this wonderful medium.

They provide the perfect balance of step-by-step guidance and inspiring artwork, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced painters alike.

So grab your brushes and paints and get ready to create some beautiful watercolors of your own!

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Watercolor Sketchbooks: Best Choices for Modern Artists

The watercolor notebook has long been the traditional medium for painters passionate about travel and watercolor painting.

A watercolor journal or sketchbook is an excellent tool, especially for beginners. It’s easier to get started and experiment with new techniques. 

To paint in a watercolor notebook, you don’t have to be a professional artist.

Read on to discover the best-mixed media sketchbooks. If you’re looking for the best sketchbooks for drawing or painting, you’re sure to find the right one for your needs.

Buying Guide to the Best Sketchbook

There are a few factors to keep in mind if you want a great sketchbook. Here’s what I look out for when buying good watercolor paper or a new sketchbook! 

Paper Surface & Texture

The feel of the paper is a significant factor to consider. Watercolor paper can vary from smooth to rough. It can feel very granulated and bumpy, or it can be almost shiny and slippery.

Watercolor paper comes in two main types – students’ or artists’ quality. Top-quality artists’ paper will be acid-free and last a long time without your paint fading.

But it’s also more expensive and might not be necessary for your sketchbook.

Paper Weight

Another critical factor is the weight of the paper. Thicker paper will absorb more water without it seeping through to the other pages. 

In a sketchbook, that’s an important thing to think about! You don’t want your other designs to get blurred or destroyed. 

But very heavy paper can be unwieldy and make your sketchbook weighty. You’ll also get fewer pages in your sketchbook overall. 

Light paper is more likely to ripple or tear if you use a lot of water. That doesn’t mean that light paper is of low quality. 

You can get high-quality thinner paper – but you’ll need to use more care with it!

How it Performs With Watercolor Paints

That brings up to how the paper will perform in use. Here are a few questions you’ll need answers to if you want to buy the best sketchbook:

• Does the paper absorb a lot of water? 
• Does the page ripple or buckle?
• Can you erase on it? 
• Is it better suited to watercolor paints, pencils, or markers?

Sketchbook Construction

As well as the paper quality, it’s a good idea to look at the construction of the sketchbook itself. Does it feel hardwearing? Are the pages sewn in, and do they lay flat? 

Sketchbooks can vary greatly. Some will be cheaper with cardboard covers while others are hardbound and premium. 

Spiral notebooks lay flat, giving you easy access to the page. But not everyone likes this design.

If you want to treasure your sketchbook for years, splash out on a more expensive journal. It’s the perfect way to preserve your artwork for years to come.

You can get sketchbooks with perforated pages so you can remove individual sheets. If you’d like to have the option of displaying your artwork , make sure to look out for this feature.

Don’t forget to double-check how many pages the sketchbook contains! This will also give you a good idea of the value for money of each option.

The Best Watercolor Sketchbooks

If you’re looking for the best sketchbooks or the best watercolor paper, read on. I’ve reviewed only the top products here so that you can be sure of their quality and suitability.

Are you looking for a low-cost sketchbook or a Moleskine watercolor notebook alternative? Whatever you need, you should find the right product below!

As an artist myself, I know how important it is to have the right materials. Here, you’ll find the best watercolor paper and journals for beginners and pros.

Canson XL Series Mix Paper Pad

(Image credit: Canson)

This spiral notebook contains heavyweight paper that is ideal for watercolor painting. As a mixed media sketchbook, you can also use it to draw, sketch, and even collage.

This versatility opens up more options, allowing you to try out different techniques. You can experiment and push your limits with this quality notepad.

The pad is a generous size at 14 x 17 inches. And with 60 sheets, there’s enough paper to keep you going for a long while.

You’ll also be pleased to hear that the paper is acid-free. That means that the paper will last a long time without fading or breaking. 

The smooth, fine texture allows for an easy, flawless blending of colors and adding layers. It’s even possible to erase on this notebook.

• Versatile mixed-media sketchbook with thick, heavy paper
• Lots of sheets of acid-free, long-lasting paper
• The pages can tear out by accident as they are perforated

Check price on

Arteza Sketchbook

(Image credit: Arteza)

Arteza is a well-known brand name among amateur and professional artists. This Arteza sketchbook would be a gorgeous addition to your materials.

Each sketchbook contains 34 sheets of cold press 110 lb. It feels silky yet weighty in hand and is designed for watercolors.

The attractive hardcover will protect your artwork and looks excellent. It’s ideal for traveling, as it’s durable and sturdy. 

This is a beautiful notebook crafted from natural linen in a cool gray shade. The elastic band holds it in place when not in use. The handy ribbon bookmark helps you find the right page with ease.

Little touches like this set this product apart from the competitors.

It’s also a practical size, and the paper is acid-free, as you’d expect. The pages lay flat when painting, so you can work comfortably.

Arteza is so confident in the quality of its products that it offers a 100% guarantee. You can send it back for a free replacement if it doesn’t meet your expectations.

You can’t beat this excellent customer service. The quality guarantee is all you need to assure you that an Arteza sketchbook is worth investing in.

• Fantastic, high-quality design with extra touches
• Cold-press, acid-free paper
• The paper does tend to buckle if you use a lot of water

Pentalic Art Journal Aqua Watercolor

(Image credit: Pentalic)

Here is another gorgeous watercolor journal that is a joy to use. It looks stylish and is perfect for landscapes and other paintings.

This Pentalic sketchbook contains thick, quality watercolor paper. It is 100% cotton, 140lb paper that has a neutral PH. The cold press paper is milled in the Netherlands to the highest standards.

All these factors combine to make it ideal for watercolor paints. It’s thick and sturdy enough that the pages shouldn’t warp, buckle, or bleed onto the next page.

This journal is designed to lay completely flat, making it easier to use. The ribbon marker makes it quick to find your place and even has a handy storage pocket.

This set also contains a set of watercolor paints and a brush. So, you have everything you need to get started, making it perfect for any beginner.

But it’s also suitable for experienced artists. It’s a great size for taking on your travels, and the elastic band will keep all your artwork safe.

• Beautiful, thick paper that won’t buckle or fail you
• It’s a good size and comes with extra features like a storage pocket
• The first page of the journal is a little loose

Paul Rubens Watercolor Paper Block

(Image credit: Paul Rubens)

This watercolor paper block is an excellent gift for any artist, including yourself. It’s suitable for everyone, no matter how much experience you have. And it’s a delight to use.

The classic black leather design makes this watercolor journal stylish and timeless. It has a hardback cover, which ensures that it should last for a long time.

The paper doesn’t disappoint, either. Hot pressed and 100% cotton, it’s incredibly smooth. That makes it the best sketchbook for markers by a long way. 

Grab this paper block if you like to dabble in watercolors and other media. Your sketches will look just as good as your watercolors and line drawings with markers.

The fact that the paper is acid-free guarantees that your designs won’t fade. 

It differs from a notebook or journal in that the paper is glued down on all four sides. The benefit of this is that it’s super easy to use on the road.

But it does mean that you can’t flick through and work on several pages in one session. You’ll need to remove the top sheet to move onto the next one.

Altogether, it’s a fantastic product for artists. The handy size allows you to express your creativity while remaining portable. So, you can draw and paint both at home and on the go.

• A paint block that has premium quality, smooth paper
• Easy to use at home and when traveling
• You’ll need to store your finished pieces somewhere to keep them safe – this is not a journal

Stillman & Birn Beta Series

(Image credit: Stillman & Birn)

Stillman & Birn is another respected brand that creates high-quality art materials. This premium sketchbook ticks all the right boxes and is affordable, too! 

At 270 gsm, the paper is extra-heavyweight. That means it’s designed to suit all sorts of media, from watercolor to markers and pencil sketches. 

You can even use gouache paints, and it can withstand many layers of paint.

The paper is thick enough to prevent any bleeding to the next page. But you can also erase on it without the paper tearing. That makes it the best paper for watercolor markers, too! 

The binding is sewn in the US, ensuring top-quality construction. This sketchbook is an excellent alternative to a Moleskine sketchbook.

• High-quality paper and construction
• The paper is both acid and chloride-free
• It’s quite small

Travelogue Artist Watercolor Journal

(Image credit: Unbekannt)

This travel-sized watercolor journal is perfect for anyone who likes to paint on the go. You should snap up this great journal if you travel frequently and want to document your trips.

At 5.3 x 8.3 inches, it’s compact and portable. So, you can pack it into your handbag, backpack, or suitcase with ease.

The paper is also high-quality and designed for avid artists. It’s cold-pressed and acid-free to prevent your designs from fading. And with a generous 60 pages, you can create as many masterpieces as you like. 

Plus, this journal looks beautiful with its natural linen cover. You’ll want to take this sketchbook everywhere with you!

• A fantastic travel-size sketchbook
• Gorgeous handbound linen cover and elastic closure to keep your sheets safe
• The paper isn’t as thick as some other sketchbooks

Below are sketches from my travel sketchbook.

(Image credit: Outmane Amahou)

The Wrap Up

A sketchbook is a worthy addition to your art tools and materials. It allows you to experiment and give free rein to your imagination.

It’s also an excellent way to see how you’re progressing as an artist. You can look back over the pages and preserve memories within.

The best artist sketchbooks for watercolor have high-quality paper and durable construction. You want a book that will last and hold all your paintings safe.

Grab any of the fantastic sketchbooks reviewed above. You won’t regret it! There’s something for everyone and every budget.

Then, sign up for the Proactive Creative newsletter! I’ll keep you up to date with all the best tips, articles, and reviews so that you can stay on top of your game.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, Proactive Creative may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Outmane is the founder of Proactive Creative. He is an artist/designer.

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2 thoughts on “Watercolor Sketchbooks: Best Choices for Modern Artists”

Thank you for this information, it is going to be useful in my research as a beginner in calligraphy and watercolor painting.

You’re welcome 🙂

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Color is a power which directly influences the soul.

- Wassily Kandinsky

Wassily Kandinsky and his paintings

Russian-born Wassily Kandinsky pioneered abstract art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His unique perspective on the form and function of art emphasized the synthesis of the visual and the auditory. He heard sounds as color, and this unusual perception was a guiding force in the development of his artistic style. He believed the purpose of art to be the conveyance of the artist's unique inner vision, which required transcendence of the objective world.

Early Years: 1896-1909

Born in Moscow in 1866, the artist did not seriously pursue his artistic career until the age of 30. He had studied law, economics and ethnography at the University of Moscow, becoming a professor of law upon graduation. It was during his time at the university that he reprised his childhood interest in art, and in particular, the symbolic nature of color and its spiritual implications.

He experienced a sort of epiphany upon viewing a Monet exhibit in Moscow. At first put off by the artist's Impressionistic Haystacks paintings , Kandinsky found nevertheless that Monet's use of color impacted him in a significant way, taking on an almost mythic power. During this same period, the artist attended a performance of Wagner's opera, "Lohengrin," which had a similarly powerful effect on his sensibilities. It sparked a synesthetic experience in which the notes he heard became colors and visual images, a perception that would instruct his theories about art.

After only three years of teaching, Kandinsky enrolled in a Munich art school to study with Anton Azbe, a Slovenian Realist whose forte was figure drawing. At Azbe's studio, Kandinsky worked beside fellow Russian Alexej von Jawlensky, a future Expressionist who acquainted his new friend with the city's avant-garde society.

After two years of tutelage, Kandinsky took a year to hone his craft before entering the Munich Academy to study with Franz von Stuck, a demanding traditionalist who was the city's foremost painter at the time. The master's emphasis on Symbolism in his own work as well as his focus on the imagination proved inspirational to his students.

Kandinsky and a few of his avant-garde colleagues founded an artists' group called Phalanx in 1901, a reaction to the restrictive status quo of the Munich art scene. In 1903, the artist painted his first milestone artwork, "Der Blaue Reiter" or The Blue Rider , an Impressionistic scene of a man in a blue cape astride a white horse.

During this first decade of the 20th century, the artist developed a progressively innovative style that reflected the influences of such schools as Fauvism, Pointillism and Expressionism. His figures became less distinct, his compositions increasingly planar. In such 1908 pieces as "Munich-Schwabing with the Church of St. Ursula" and "Autumn Study Near Oberau," the interplay of color took precedence over conventional form. In 1909, Kandinsky was instrumental in founding Neue Kunstlervereinigung Munchen, or New Artists' Association of Munich, a group of radical artists whose avant-garde approach was far removed from the mainstream art of the era.

Middle Years: 1910-1921

While Kandinsky traveled around Europe and discovered the work of the avant-garde artists such as Pointillism Georges Seurat , Post-Impressionism Paul Cezanne , and Fauvism Henri Matisse .

The artist's budding abstract style began to blossom during this period with works that de-emphasized traditional boundaries such as form and line, focusing instead on communication of emotion through juxtaposition of color. In 1910, Kandinsky completed an untitled watercolor that art experts consider to be his first truly abstract painting.

Like his friend Swiss painter Paul Klee , Kandinsky was a talented musician and his abstract paintings are often described as 'painted music'. However, Kandinsky was adamant that this was not true. In a lecture he gave in Cologne in 1914, he insisted that all he wanted to do was 'paint good, necessary, living pictures'.Similar to music that has no concrete form but is a direct expression of the composer's perceptions, Kandinsky's abstract art sought to eliminate the intermediary, objective world and portray his inner vision directly on the canvas, expressed in terms of color and motion. He believed that abstract art could establish a line of communication directly from the artist's inner vision to the viewer's imagination and elicit a specific emotional response.

In 1911, the New Artists of Munich rejected one of Kandinsky's entries for their exhibit. He responded by establishing a rival exhibition for The Blue Riders, a new group he formed along with German painter Franz Marc and such Expressionists as Jawlensky, Auguste Mack and Gabriele Munter. The group sponsored three exhibitions and published "The Blue Rider Anthology," but dissolved in 1914 with the advent of World War I.

Kandinsky's first book exploring abstract art theory, "Concerning the Spiritual in Art," was published in 1910. In it, he explained the method behind what many critics of the time considered to be his madness: his innovative approach to visual art. In the treatise, Kandinsky seeks to vanquish what he terms the nightmare of materialism in favor of enlightened spiritualism in art, and makes a case for the similarity of music and visual art in terms of expression.

The artist used musical terms such as "improvisation" and "composition" in the titles of his pre-war paintings, emphasizing the link between the two art forms. For example, he entitled a 1912 painting "Improvisation 27, Garden of Love II." The critical response of the mainstream art community to Kandinsky's first abstract efforts was uncharitable at best, and the artist understood that to gain acceptance for his work, he could not abruptly sever all connections to tradition.

As a result, some of the pieces he produced during the second decade of the 20th century retained a few recognizable objects. For example, Winter Landscape from 1909 contains the outline of a house and triangular trees while Sketch 160A from 1912 contains a stylized image of a troika pulled by a trio of horses, which are represented by three lines and three indistinct heads.

In 2014, Kandinsky returned to Moscow to wait out the war. While there, he joined the city's Academy of Fine Arts and founded The Institute of Artistic Culture. He also directed the Moscow Museum for Pictorial Culture. In 1921, he established the Russian Academy of Artistic Sciences. In his own art, he was drawing ever closer to complete abstraction. By the time he left Moscow in 1921, his paintings, such as "White Line" and "Red Spot," contained no recognizable objects.

Later Years: 1922-1944

In 1922, Kandinsky began teaching at the Bauhaus school of applied art and architecture in Weimar, Germany. Bauhaus focused on the unification of the arts for practical applications. When the school moved to Dessau in 1925, Kandinsky followed. He published his second treatise on art theory the following year, entitled "Point to Line to Art."

In the early 1930s, Germany was completely under control by the Nazi Party, and Hitler was able to gather as much as 16,000 avant-garde artworks that were originally in display in the national museums of Germany. He also ordered to ship about 650 artworks to Munich in preparation for his art exhibition called the Degenerate Art. Works of many contemporary artists such as Wassily Kandinsky, Marc Chagall , Paul Klee, and Piet Mondrian are included in the exhibition. Soon Nazi regime closed down the Bauhaus school, and Kandinsky moved to Paris. Among his paintings of this period was "Development in Brown," a somber collage of rectangles and circles surrounding a colorful banner of triangles. Historians draw a connection between the painting and the brown-uniformed Nazi soldiers who had been appearing throughout Germany in growing numbers.

In Paris, the artist incorporated the sense of order that pervaded the Bauhaus into his work with geometric figures and more noticeable compositional balance. His painting Striped from 1934 is a combination of squares and spheres with dissecting lines. Horizontalee from 1939 is a black and color checkerboard with distinct geometric or free-form symbols in each square. Two of his final masterworks, Composition IX from 1936 and Composition X from 1939, bring together the various elements of Kandinsky's vision and style in entirely fresh ways. "Composition IX" features a background of brightly colored diagonal swaths with several animated symbols floating through the scene. "Composition X" features brightly hued shapes on a dark background. The exceptional vibrancy of the various symbols communicates a joie de vivre absent from his early works such as Composition VI and Yellow-Red-Blue

Wassily Kandinsky: Influence on Art

Just like Shakespeare on literature, and Sigmund Freud on psychology, Wassily Kandinsky's impact on abstract art is tremendous. Kandinsky's artistic output in terms of volume and consistent quality is phenomenal by any standards and matched by very few artists in any generation. Althought like many artists his paintings show an apparent dissimilarity between the early and mature works. Kandinsky showed one consistent theme throughout the 'inner necessity' to paint. As his fellow artist Diego Rivera has suggested:

Kandinsky's art is not a reflection of life, it is life itself ”

The influence of Wassily Kandinsky art theory and Wassily Kankinsky paintings during the artist's lifetime was considerable, both by virtue of his collaboration with his colleagues in the various groups he founded and by the treatises he published. His writings laid the groundwork for 20th-century movements like Abstract Expressionism. Later artists such as Jackson Pollock would inform their own unique vision with the tincture of Kandinsky's theories. Mark Rothko and his contemporaries in the Color Field school reprised Kandinsky's emphasis on the emotional power of color, and members of the Neo-Expressionist movement in the 1980s were subject to Kandinsky's influence as well. Perhaps more than any other master of his era, Wassily Kandinsky forever changed the way both artists and the world at large would approach - and appreciate - visual art.

Composition VI

Composition VII

Yellow-Red-Blue

Improvisation, 31 (Sea Battle)

Black and Violet

Bustling Aquarelle

Farbstudie Quadrate

Mit und Gegen

Several Circles

Small Pleasures

Improvisation 27

Small Dream in Red

Composition VIII

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The Biography

Moscow, 1866-1896.

Munich, 1896-1911

"Blue Rider", 1911-1914

Russia, 1914-1921

Bauhaus, 1922-1933

Paris, 1934-1944