Paint Stunning Metallic Watercolour Art on Black Paper—In Just 30 Minutes a Day💫

Ready to add a little shimmer to your sketchbook? In this beginner-friendly watercolour class, artist and teacher Fio Ortecho invites you to explore the magic of metallic watercolours on black paper through a fun and creative 5-day painting challenge.

Download your Class Workbook here

Each day, you'll create a new illustration from scratch, guided step-by-step through sketching, selecting highlights, and painting your own glowing compositions—perfect for artists of all levels. Whether you're brand new to metallic paints or just want a short and satisfying project, these bite-sized lessons are designed to fit into busy schedules. Each one takes 30 minutes or less to complete.

You’ll learn:

How to paint with metallic watercolours on black paper
Techniques to make your metallics pop and shine
How to choose what to highlight in your compositions
Tips for layering, brush control, and working with contrast

This class is perfect for:

Beginners curious about shimmering effects and black paper
Artists looking for short, creative daily painting prompts
Anyone who wants to relax, play with colour, and build confidence with metallics

We’ll cover all the materials you need (don’t worry—it’s a short list!), and you’ll finish the class with five finished pieces, plus techniques you can apply to your own future illustrations.

No prior experience needed—just bring your metallic watercolours, some black paper, and your creativity.

This class includes a workbook. Don't forget to check it out or print it if you can.

Ready? Let’s dive into painting on black paper!

You can check out my other Skillshare classes here:

Materials List – 5-Day Metallic Watercolour Challenge

Here’s everything you’ll need to follow along with this class. Feel free to substitute with what you have at home!

Any brand of metallic or pearlescent watercolours
A basic set with gold, silver, and a few colours is enough
Recommended: 200 gsm or heavier
Alternatives: Navy, deep green, or other dark-toned watercolour paper
Round brushes: Sizes 2 and 6
Optional: Detail brush (size 0 or 1) for fine line
HB or lighter pencil for sketching
Kneaded or soft eraser for light corrections
Small ruler
Drawing compass
Jar of clean water (I like to use 2)
Paper towel or cloth for blotting brushes
Small ceramic plate or plastic palette for mixing paints
I’ll provide the images (sketches) I use for each project
Optional: Use your own for added creativity

Tip: Don’t worry about having the exact same tools I use in class. Use what you have, experiment, and make the projects your own!

Gaby Flores-Sánchez

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