Introducing Metallics into your Watercolor Practice

Why Metallic Watercolors?

Watercolors are known for their soft, ethereal quality—light, transparent layers of color that allow light to shine through. However, sometimes you may want to add a little extra sparkle or shine to your piece, and that’s where metallic watercolors like FineTec step in. They bring depth and dimension to your work with radiant, luminous effects. These paints work wonderfully with everything from botanical illustrations to abstract landscapes, or even as an accent in your next portrait.

FineTec watercolors are specially formulated to produce rich, vibrant metallic tones, and they come in an array of colors—from golds and silvers to pearlescent blues, greens, and reds. Their mica-based formula gives them a stunning, iridescent finish that reacts beautifully with light.

Getting Started with Metallic FineTec Watercolors:

1. Choose Your Palette

Metallic watercolors come in a variety of colors, and FineTec’s selection is no exception. They are available individually or in curated value sets, each with its own shimmering tones. If you’re new to metallics, start with a basic set that includes gold, silver, and a few rich, jewel-like colors. As you get more comfortable, you can branch out into their specialty colors. 

2. Prep Your Watercolors
   Unlike regular watercolors, FineTec metallics often have a drier consistency straight out of the pan. When you first use them, it’s helpful to lightly spritz the pans with water to rehydrate the pigments and bring them back to life. Let them sit for a minute or so, then gently swirl your brush to pick up the paint. The consistency should be similar to regular watercolors once activated.

3. Brush Selection
   Use a soft, high-quality watercolor brush to apply metallic paints. A larger brush works well for sweeping, broad strokes while a smaller, finer brush is perfect for delicate details or creating highlights. FineTec paints are known for their smooth application, so choose brushes that can hold a decent amount of water but still allow for precision. The da Vinci Maestro collection or the Princeton VelveTouch collection are both perfect. 

4. Layering for Depth
   Like regular watercolors, the beauty of metallic watercolors lies in their layering process. You can create soft, subtle metallic washes or build up layers for a deeper, more opaque shimmer. FineTec metallics are known for their buildable coverage, so feel free to layer them as much as you like, depending on the level of shine you want to achieve.

5. Experiment with Different Surfaces
   Metallic paints often shine brightest on darker or textured surfaces. Try working on black or deep-toned watercolor paper for a striking contrast. You can also experiment with vellum, illustration board, or hot-press watercolor paper to see how the metallics interact with various textures.

Practical Tips for Using Metallic FineTec Watercolors

• Use as Accents: You don’t need to paint your entire piece with metallics to make it stand out. In fact, too much can ruin your composition! Metallics work beautifully as accents or highlights, especially in areas where you want to catch the light. Think of adding them to the edges of flowers, the reflections in water, or a glimmering sunset sky.

• Mix with Regular Watercolors: You can blend FineTec’s metallic shades with regular watercolor pigments for a subtle sheen. This is perfect for creating a soft transition between matte and shiny areas, or for giving an ethereal glow to your landscape.

• Fixative: Once your work is dry, consider using a clear fixative spray or Dorland's Wax to seal the metallic colors. This will prevent smudging or fading, ensuring that your shiny accents remain vibrant.

• Use for Special Projects: Metallic watercolors are especially fun when used in greeting cards, stationery, or artwork designed for special occasions. Imagine creating a wedding invitation with a stunning gold accent or painting a dazzling holiday card. And don't forget lettering and calligraphy! Shimmering metallic letters on black mixed media paper? Yes please! 

Advanced Techniques with Metallic Watercolors

Once you’ve gotten the basics down, you may want to experiment with more advanced techniques:

• Wet-on-Wet: Use the wet-on-wet method to achieve a fluid, seamless metallic wash. Lay down a wash of clean water and drop in your metallic paint for a dreamy, flowing effect that mimics the movement of water or light.

• Dry Brush Technique: For a textural effect, try the dry brush technique. This works best when you don’t add too much water, allowing the metallic pigment to sit on top of the paper. It creates a slightly scratched, rough texture that’s great for adding depth to rocks, trees, or architectural elements.

• Lifting: FineTec metallic watercolors also work well for lifting, meaning you can lift some of the pigment back off the paper to create highlights or subtle variations in tone. A damp brush or sponge can be used to lift portions of the metallic paint for interesting contrast. This is one of those times when experimentation is called for! 

Whether you’re new to the world of metallic watercolors or already a seasoned pro, incorporating FineTec’s stunning metallic pigments into your watercolor practice can truly elevate your artwork. Their rich, radiant tones can add a whole new layer of depth and dimension, transforming your pieces with luminous accents!

As always, Your Friendly Neighborhood Art Store is here to help you find the best tools for your creative journey. Our friendly staff is happy to assist you in selecting the perfect metallic FineTec watercolor set or any other supplies you may need. Stop by and pick up your new favorite watercolor today!