Abstract watercolour with metallic accents

We love trying out new techniques whenever we can! In this step-by-step plan we show you how you can add special effects to watercolour using alcohol or methylated spirit.

Go to step 1

Create your own

To add some sparkle, we used metallic gel pens. Use this lovely combination in your hand lettering or illustrations to make them stand out even more!

What you need

Van Gogh watercolour paper
Van Gogh watercolour pocket box
Van Gogh watercolour brush
Sakura Gelly Rolls in metallic colours
Methylated spirit or alcohol
Water

Draw a shape using a watercolour brush dipped in water.

Step 1

Be generous with the amount of water you use, as you do not want it to dry or absorb into the paper before you have the chance to add your watercolours.

Time for some colour.

Step 2

Dip the same wet brush into a watercolour pan of your choice and let the colour flow onto the shape you made out of water. Add different colours of the watercolour palette and create a nice flowy colour transition.

Add some details.

Step 3

Hold your brush above your shape and tap it with your finger to create some splatters.

Create special effects with alcohol.

Step 4

Dip your brush into the alcohol or methylated spirit and tap it again above your shape to create lovely splotches caused by the diluting paint.

Make it sparkle!

Step 5

Use different colours of the metallic Gelly Rolls to line some of the shapes the alcohol created. This adds some interesting accents to your work.

Try this method out with different colour combinations and shapes to see the infinite possibilities!

Step 6

Have fun creating your own version. If you try out this technique, let us know by sharing it using #RoyalTalens. We look forward to seeing what you create using this method!

This step-by-step plan was made by our colleagues from the Royal Talens Experience Centre!