Many if not most artists consider value to be the most important element in a successful painting. Executing correct values within a painting provide structure, form, and focus to a composition, even if the colors we use are not true to life. In this lesson, we step outside traditional value studies to explore how the colors we use impact the values of our paintings.

This is a DIGITAL DOWNLOAD. The written lesson will be delivered as a PDF. It is 18 pages including a detailed lesson on values in watercolor, visual examples, 16 limited color palettes with information on how to arrange your own at home, and a step-by-step lesson project. It includes a copyright free reference photo (taken by myself) and line art, which can be printed and transferred for the lesson project.

* Difficulty: Intermediate *
This lesson assumes that you are familiar with traditional value studies in watercolor, using water control to adjust the value of your paints. It also assumes that you have at three watercolors that are of similar hues, such as a light blue (like cerulean), a mid-valued blue (like cobalt or ultramarine), and a dark blue (like indanthrene). The project itself is worked in three distinct layers, with an additional adjustment layer if desired. It should be relatively beginner-friendly to follow using the line art provided.

* PDF Contents *
1 Title Page
2 Table of Contents
3 The Importance of Value
4 Traditional Value Studies
5 Inherent Pigment Values
5 A Different Approach
5 Monochromatic & Analogous Color Schemes
6 How Do Color Selections Affect Your Painting?
7 Limited Palette Trios
11 Limited Palette Duos
13 Color Palettes to Avoid
14 3-Color Value Study
18 Reference Photos
19 Line Art

* Supplies Needed *
- Your favorite watercolor paper
- Your favorite watercolor brush
- Two containers of water
- Reusable rag or paper towels for blotting brush
- Three analogous watercolors in distinct values
- Heat tool, hair dryer, or fan to dry each layer (if desired)
- Pencil and a method of transfer for the line art (light tablet, grid method, etc.)