
When it comes to watercolor painting, there are so many techniques to help you achieve different effects. That’s what makes this medium so much fun! In this post, you’ll learn all about the scumbling watercolor technique, including what it is, how to scumble, and a few examples at the end!
Let’s get into it…
In watercolor, scumbling is a technique where you paint with random, irregular brushstrokes, almost as though you’re “scrubbing” the paper, to create an impression of texture. This technique can be adjusted depending on how close the strokes are painted next to each other, and how much water and paint you add to the mixture.
Scumbling in oil painting is done by painting a thin layer of paint with a dry brush in a “scribbling” action. That way the previous layer can still be seen through the scumbled one. It is a technique that adds highlights, softens the transition between different colors, and creates texture.
Remember, the key to progressing with your painting skills is by practicing and exploring your techniques! So when you practice the scumbling technique, make sure to test it with different water-to-paint ratios, patterns, colors, and subjects.
What you’ll need for this tutorial:
How to scumble with watercolors:
You can also scumble into wet paper! The result will be different and create softer edges. Simply wet the paper with clean water then scumble with your brush. Make sure to leave a little more space in between strokes because the paint will bleed.
Below are a few examples of when you can use the scumbling technique to create texture:
Trees, bushes, and grass can have very irregular patterns. Let’s face it, you’re not going to paint a stunning tree if you try to paint every leaf. The key is to create form by noting the shapes and values, and then adding texture! Scumbling is an excellent technique you can use to paint foliage as shown in the examples below:
Another example of when to use scumbling is when painting dirt or sand! The texture of sand can be difficult to replicate with watercolors, with the scumbling technique you can paint the underlayer then scumble with your brush to add texture.
You have reached the end of this post! Hopefully, you now have an understanding of how to scumble with watercolors!! If you enjoyed this post and found it helpful be sure to sign up for my email list below for access to more watercolor recourses:
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