Be Amazed by the Glaze!

I love to create layers in watercolor. This helps create depth and detail you can’t get with a quick wash. This layering process is called glazing. Glazing is a basic technique where you paint, let it dry completely, then paint over the top of the previous color. Because watercolor paint is transparent, it allows the underlying colors that were previously painted to show through. The combination of two layers of paint produces a new color and creates a darker tone. You are mixing colors directly on the paper. This gives depth and interest to your paintings. You can achieve an adequate level of value changes with a three-step process. I, on the other hand, love adding layers. It's just fun!

This is a quick review of the three-layer process.

Layer 1

Lightest values (0–25%)

Create atmosphere, not detail. Use a wash of 90% water + 10% pigment.

Layer 2:

Middle values (25–75%)

Add more pigment, less water.

Shadows, reflections. Form  and depth start to appear.

Layer 3:

Darkest values (75–100%)

Even more pigment, little water.

Use this for details. Deep shadows, crisp edges, strong contrasts. Suddenly, the painting comes alive.

Each layer supports the next layer creating harmony, depth and interest.