Part 2: How to Create Complex Fur Patterns in Watercolor

Here’s Part 2 of the FREE lesson on “How to Create Complex Fur Patterns in Watercolor.” Part 1 contains valuable content and materials for download.  See Part 1 HERE.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I’m using Tyler, this Aussiedoodle as a model, specifically, the lower part of his right ear. Let me know in the comments if you would like to see all of Tyler offered in a future course in the school!

 

 

 

 

 

A full course on creating complex patterns and colors in watercolor is in development, to be released at the end of May, and these small lessons to provide a taste of what will come. The course is constructed based on your feedback and I would love it if you would leave a comment at the bottom of this post with your questions and input. 

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Part 3: Mid Tones

This is the third step of the formula to simplify complex patterns. Steps 1 and 2, along with color mixing, can be found HERE.

These lessons address questions (coming straight from your comments and emails) including:

• I just don’t know where to start. (Lesson 1 addresses this question.)
• The patterns get so “busy” that I get lost in details. How do I work my way through something that seems like the most impossible jigsaw puzzle, without getting lost?
• How do I mix the colors? (check out the color mixing video)
• How do you layer colors to create transparency without ending up with mud?
• How do you create contour, shadow, and bone structure? Discussed in this lesson!)

 

These terms will be used in today’s lesson:

• Mid Tones – Mid tones are in between the darkest and lightest values, used to create smooth transitions from dark to light, establishing the beginnings of shape, contour and shadow.
• Soften Edges – used to create smooth transitions from dark to light
  • Softening occurs when the color is thinned out, while still damp, gradually fading into the white of the paper.
  • Softening seems to work best when the brush is clean and dry.

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The Formula, Part 3: Mid Tones

This step is in preparation for fur/hair markings to come. Think of it as the under painting – the groundwork – getting all of the color, the contour, and the values underneath the fur in place before creating textures.

 

The final lesson, parts 4 and 5 of the formula will be in the next post. 

I encourage you to practice these lessons. Every time you do it you will learn from mistakes and reinforce your skills, building muscle memory.

And now, I’d love to hear what you think. Please tell me in the comments section. 

• Do you have a question about anything lessons so far?
• What do you like about the lesson?
• Are you confused about anything?
• These tutorials are based on your input, and I’ll use your comments to fine tune the next lesson – I can’t wait to read them!

And if you found the tutorial useful, I would love it you would share it with your friends.

Thanks so much for visiting. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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