How to Paint with Gouache: A Complete Guide to Techniques for Beginners

What Is Gouache, and Why Will You Love It?

Gouache paints are essentially opaque watercolors. Unlike traditional watercolor, which is transparent, gouache contains more pigment and binder, giving it a creamy consistency and the ability to completely cover the surface beneath it. At ARTMiE, we recommend starting with quality sets from brands like Royal Talens or Schmincke, which offer excellent pigmentation.

Gouache’s main advantage is its versatility. You can use it as a thick paste or dilute it with water for softer color transitions. Since it dries to a matte, velvety finish, it’s ideal for illustrations, design sketches, or color studies. Plus, if you make a mistake, you can rewet the paint once it’s dry and adjust it, making gouache a very forgiving medium.

Don’t forget to choose quality paper. Gouache requires heavier paper, ideally with a weight (g/m²) above 200 g/m², such as Fabriano sketchbooks. Thinner paper may buckle when it comes into contact with water, making your work more difficult. With a quality surface and the right brushes, such as synthetic brushes from Mont Marte, you can achieve professional results on your first try.

How to Apply Gouache Paints

The key to working with gouache is understanding its consistency. For full coverage, apply the paint straight from the tube or with only a small amount of water. This technique, often called opaque painting, creates rich areas of color without visible brushstrokes. Try experimenting with paints from Lukas, which are known for their high opacity.

Another technique is layering. Gouache lets you paint light tones over dark ones, which is impossible with watercolor. Start with darker underpainting colors, then gradually add details in lighter shades. Work quickly and gently, though, so you don’t dissolve the layer underneath too much. For soft transitions, try the “wet-on-wet” technique, applying paint to slightly damp paper.

Don’t forget the dry-brush technique. For this method, use an almost dry brush with a small amount of thick paint and lightly sweep it across the paper’s surface. This creates interesting textures that are ideal for painting grass, tree bark, or highlights. It’s a great way to add depth and movement to your painting without unnecessary layering.

How to Mix Gouache Paints on a Palette

Mixing gouache paints is a pleasure because the paints behave predictably. Always start with the lightest shade and gradually add darker ones. Remember that gouache changes shade slightly as it dries. Light paints may darken a little, while dark paints may become lighter. It’s a good idea to keep a piece of paper handy to test your paints before applying them to your main work.

For mixing, we recommend a ceramic or plastic palette with deeper wells, where you can prepare a larger amount of paint. Brands like KREUL offer great accessories for artists that make it easier to organize your workspace. If the paint dries on your palette, don’t worry. Just spray it with water and it will be ready to use again.

When working with gouache, don’t be afraid to combine different brands. Whether you use professional lines from Lefranc & Bourgeois or school supplies from Koh-i-Noor, the important thing is to understand the ratio of water to pigment. Experiment by mixing complementary paints directly on the paper to create interesting, vivid shades that look more natural than those straight from the tube.

How to Clean Brushes After Using Gouache

Gouache is water-based, so it’s very easy to clean. Simply rinse brushes in clean water and gently dry them with a cloth. We recommend using synthetic brushes because they stand up better to frequent soaking and hold their shape better. Always wash your brushes thoroughly with soap after you finish working, so no pigment residue remains to damage the bristles.

Never leave brushes submerged in water for a long time, as this could damage the connection between the handle and the metal part (ferrule). After washing, let them dry horizontally or with the bristles pointing down, so water doesn’t run inside the brush. Proper care will extend the life of your tools, and you’ll appreciate that every time you paint.

If you also use other media, such as Posca markers for details, make sure the gouache is completely dry before drawing over it. Gouache works very well with other techniques. It also works very well with other techniques. At ARTMiE, you’ll find a wide range of supplies to help keep your studio tidy and clean, so you can focus on creating.

Continue Reading

• How to Get Rich, Opaque Color with Gouache: A Practical Guide for Creative Souls
• How to Paint on Fabric
• How to Paint with Ink
• How to Use Acrylic Paints: Benefits, Tips, and Advice for Beginners and Experienced Artists