PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

Using the process and techniques from this lesson, create your own watercolor wreath.

ASSIGNMENT:

This is a four step project. Refer to the lesson as a guide and feel free to email Cate with questions:

Step One: Practice painting thin lines with each size of round brush. Observe how each brush creates a different size stroke and holds more or less water. Practice changing pressure as you bring the brush to paper to create wide leaves and thin stems. You should be able to do this without changing brushes and without lifting the bristles off the paper. Refer to the attached PDF for examples of what this can look like.
Step Two: Practice making leaf shapes using the different brush sizes. Once you feel comfortable with painting the shapes, start experimenting with colors. Use a color straight from the palette, mix your own, or start with one color on the paper and drop different colors onto the leaf while it's still wet. You will be able to watch as the colors blend on the paper!
Step Three: Practice making flower shapes. Use different brush sizes to create detailed petals, or broad abstract blooms. Try dropping darker pigment in the center of already-painted flowers and watch the colors blend on the paper.
Step Four: It's time to paint your wreath! Start with tracing your circle. Add in the stems, vines, and leaves. Be sure to leave spaces for the flowers to go! Add in a few larger blooms, then adding smaller petals. You can go back and add more greenery if you feel like it needs it.

DELIVERABLE:

Take photos of your process and upload here. Scan and post a photo of your finished wreath. I am happy to comment on your work, offer suggestions, and provide tips if you need.

*Extra Credit:

After you scan your final artwork in, use photo editing software to add a simple message, quote, or monogram to create a beautiful art print! You can use something as complicated as Photoshop, free editing software like Gimp or Canva, or even use a word processor. You can print it on card stock and give as a gift or send as a greeting card. The possibilities are endless!

OTHER:

Stay in touch by following @bellaloveletters on Instagram and use #bellaloveletters or #bellaloveworkshops for a chance to be featured!

Check out www.bellaloveletters.com for more exciting tutorials and info.

Kelsey Thomson

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