Getting Started with Watercolor Painting
Watercolor is such a beautiful and easy medium to get into. It's easy to feel intimidated, but the truth is you CAN learn watercolor and learn it well. I've developed a library of resources to help you on your journey, and I'm happy to answer additional questions through email and social media.
Step 1: All you need to know about watercolor supplies
Check out my free guide for watercolor supplies for beginners. In this guide, I'll share with you the actual tools I use, as well as walk you through the jargon and need-to-know information to help you choose watercolor supplies and art tools that will work best for you!
Step 2: Take a watercolor class
Shelby Thayne offers both live and on-demand watercolor classes throughout the year. Check below for our upcoming workshops and feel free to reach out with requests!
March 2026 - Painting Layered Mountain Landscapes in Watercolor
Discover the secrets to depth and atmosphere. In this live session, we will explore the majestic beauty of the mountains.
What you’ll learn:
- How to mix luminous, non-muddy watercolors.
- The secret to perfectly smooth gradient washes.
- Building "atmospheric perspective" with watercolor layers.
- Adding fine details like pine silhouettes and snowy peaks.
Class replay will be available for 7 days after the live session.
April 2026 - Live Watercolor Adventure Sketchbook Class
Take your art on the road. Learn how to capture the essence of nature quickly and confidently while painting outdoors.
What you’ll learn:
- How to build a lightweight, portable watercolor travel kit
- Simplifying complex landscapes into paintable compositions
- Pro-tips for painting on-site and handling changing light
- The power of a consistent "sketchbook practice" for creative growth
Class replay will be available for 7 days after the live session.
What my students are saying
"I love painting with Shelby. She knows how to encourage creative confidence and is good at explaining her techniques which makes it easy for me to give them a try myself!"
Live workshop student
Questions? Let's connect!
Interested in a private workshop, a specific landscape request, or just want to say hello? Use the form below to reach out.
