Abstract watercolour with metallic accents - Royal Talens
Abstract watercolour with metallic accents - Royal Talens

Adding special effects to watercolour

In this step-by-step plan we show you how you can add special effects to watercolour using alcohol or methylated spirit. To add some sparkle, we used metallic gel pens. Use this lovely combination in your hand lettering or illustrations to make them stand out even more!

What you need View steps

What you need

  • Van Gogh watercolour paper
  • Van Gogh watercolour pocket box
  • Van Gogh watercolour brush
  • Sakura Gelly Rolls in metallic colours
  • Methylated spirit or alcohol
  • Water
Rembrandt Granulating Water Colour Set

Step 1

Draw a shape

Draw a shape using a watercolour brush dipped in water. Be generous with the amount of water you use, as you do not want it to dry or absorb into the paper before you have the chance to add your watercolours.

Step 2

Time for some colour.

Dip the same wet brush into a watercolour pan of your choice and let the colour flow onto the shape you made out of water. Add different colours of the watercolour palette and create a nice flowy colour transition.

Step 2 - Abstract watercolour with metallic accents
Step 3 - Abstract watercolour with metallic accents

Step 3

Add some details.

Hold your brush above your shape and tap it with your finger to create some splatters.

Step 4

Create special effects with alcohol.

Dip your brush into the alcohol or methylated spirit and tap it again above your shape to create lovely splotches caused by the diluting paint.

Step 4 - Abstract watercolour with metallic accents
Step 5 - Abstract watercolour with metallic accents

Step 5

Make it sparkle!

Use different colours of the metallic Gelly Rolls to line some of the shapes the alcohol created. This adds some interesting accents to your work.

Step 6

Try out

Try this method out with different colour combinations and shapes to see the infinite possibilities!

Have fun creating your own version. If you try out this technique, let us know by sharing it using #RoyalTalens. We look forward to seeing what you create using this method!

This step-by-step plan was made by our colleagues from the Royal Talens Experience Centre!

Step 6 - Abstract watercolour with metallic accents

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