Thank you for joining us! In this class, you practiced painting a witch’s hat and broom while exploring watercolor techniques that add color, texture, and depth.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Begin With a Light Sketch

Lightly sketch the basic shapes of your hat and broom before adding paint. Avoid pressing too hard with your pencil so you don’t leave indentations in the paper.

Use Underpainting to Add Depth

Underpainting is a light first layer of color that shows through later layers. Try different color combinations to see how the underpainting changes the final look of your painting.

Build Color From Light to Dark

Begin with a light, watery wash and gradually add darker colors. On the hat, place darker shades around folds, curves, the band, and ribbons to create the look of fabric and shadow.

Create Texture on the Broom

Start with a light yellow or yellow ochre wash, then layer in darker yellows and browns. Once dry, use a smaller brush and loose strokes to suggest individual pieces of straw.

Let Layers Dry

Allow one layer to dry before adding the next to help keep colors from spreading together. Avoid large puddles of water, and test colors on scrap paper when needed.

Add Your Own Finishing Touches

Personalize your painting with different colors, ribbons, outlines, spiderwebs, or other Halloween-inspired details. There’s no need for your finished piece to look exactly like the example.