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15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor: From sketch to finished painting in just 15 minutes!
Learn to create simple, colorful works of art using easy, step-by-step watercolor painting techniques that require minimal time, effort, and only the most basic supplies.
An ideal "first book" for absolute beginners, 15-Minute Effortless Watercolor uses large brushstrokes and minimal, colorful palettes to help budding artists create light, carefree paintings in practically no time at all. After a quick overview of the basic tools and materials , including papers, brushes, and paints, and a brief introduction to choosing and mixing colors , Effortless Watercolor demonstrates how to use just a few brushstrokes to create lively works of art in a simple, modern style .
From vibrant birds and florals to expressive landscapes and still lifes , follow along with these step-by-step projects to create quick-and-easy masterpieces —a perfect formula for artists just getting started. Effortless Watercolor provides a unique introduction to watercolor painting, from choosing the right brushes and paints to creating inspired works of art using easy painting techniques— no experience required .
Books in the 15-Minute Series are perfect primers for beginning artists who want to learn the basics. Designed to be used as artist notebooks, these interactive workbooks include prompts and exercises that allow beginning artists to test out their skills directly inside the book.
An ideal "first book" for absolute beginners, 15-Minute Effortless Watercolor uses large brushstrokes and minimal, colorful palettes to help budding artists create light, carefree paintings in practically no time at all. After a quick overview of the basic tools and materials , including papers, brushes, and paints, and a brief introduction to choosing and mixing colors , Effortless Watercolor demonstrates how to use just a few brushstrokes to create lively works of art in a simple, modern style .
From vibrant birds and florals to expressive landscapes and still lifes , follow along with these step-by-step projects to create quick-and-easy masterpieces —a perfect formula for artists just getting started. Effortless Watercolor provides a unique introduction to watercolor painting, from choosing the right brushes and paints to creating inspired works of art using easy painting techniques— no experience required .
Books in the 15-Minute Series are perfect primers for beginning artists who want to learn the basics. Designed to be used as artist notebooks, these interactive workbooks include prompts and exercises that allow beginning artists to test out their skills directly inside the book.
- GenresArtNonfiction
112 pages, Paperback
Published May 3, 2022
5 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 20, 2022
This is a lovely watercolor book designed for absolute beginners or amateur watercolor painters, especially those who worry about not having enough time to paint. There are lots of projects that you follow along with that start with a very brief pencil sketch and then rather abstract watercolor painting. There's a lot of info in the beginning about supplies, techniques, brushes, etc. The sections include flowers, figures, birds and animals, objects, etc.
I'm not a fan of sketching first but these sketches are very light general shapes, and I decided to give it a try this way. Even if you don't like sketching first, you can use the examples as inspiration. This is a fun book that I'm looking forward to using for inspiration.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
I'm not a fan of sketching first but these sketches are very light general shapes, and I decided to give it a try this way. Even if you don't like sketching first, you can use the examples as inspiration. This is a fun book that I'm looking forward to using for inspiration.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
April 26, 2022
A very basic guidebook for the young as well as for the beginners who wants to draw with water colours.
Highlights of the book:
✔️ Basic, clear and easy to follow instructions
✔️ Basic introductions of the materials that would be required
✔️ Basic steps on how to mix colours
✔️ Interactive exercises
✔️ Clever, minimal representation while providing all the information needed
✔️ Real pictures
An impressive beginner's guidebook I would say.
Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group - Walter Foster Publishing, for the advance reading copy.
Highlights of the book:
✔️ Basic, clear and easy to follow instructions
✔️ Basic introductions of the materials that would be required
✔️ Basic steps on how to mix colours
✔️ Interactive exercises
✔️ Clever, minimal representation while providing all the information needed
✔️ Real pictures
An impressive beginner's guidebook I would say.
Thank you, Quarto Publishing Group - Walter Foster Publishing, for the advance reading copy.
April 23, 2022
Did you ever want to paint for enjoyment? And
thought, “it’s to much work and messy!” I did. And I’ve always been fascinated by watercolor. I love how it looks.
So about the book: it talks about all the ins and outs of watercolor. The pictures are brilliant and it brought out my inner motivation for at least a try it.
The author gives lots of creative exercises (how-to) with clear step by step illustrations in it.
I’m not sure it would be a 15 minute thing for me, but it did feel more doable for me. I hope this was helpful.
Thanks Walter Foster Publishing via NetGalley.
thought, “it’s to much work and messy!” I did. And I’ve always been fascinated by watercolor. I love how it looks.
So about the book: it talks about all the ins and outs of watercolor. The pictures are brilliant and it brought out my inner motivation for at least a try it.
The author gives lots of creative exercises (how-to) with clear step by step illustrations in it.
I’m not sure it would be a 15 minute thing for me, but it did feel more doable for me. I hope this was helpful.
Thanks Walter Foster Publishing via NetGalley.
April 22, 2022
It must be fun fact week because another fun fact is I love to paint. I don’t do it as often as I would like but I am trying to prioritize more time for it. Watercolor is my favorite medium so when I saw this book I thought it would be a great way to regain some momentum for making more regular time to paint again.
The synopsis says “learn to” paint but any painter can gain inspiration and get ideas from a book like this. It includes step by step instructions with photos for easy reference and guidance while working on your own piece. It notes recommended supplies and very nicely breaks the book down into sections based on birds, still life, flowers and more. It discusses paper, paints, brushes and even the basics on mixing and creating colors. I enjoyed the quick tip inserts and found them to be helpful and be great suggestions. Depending on your own style and techniques you use I would say that there may be some additional dry time for layers or effects not necessarily factored into the “15 minutes”. The same would go for set up and clean up but I do agree a lot of these guides and suggestions would be quick and doable for a beginner.
Never be afraid of experimenting with art. It could be exactly how you discover a talent you have or determine what you like best. Always keep in mind any art is subjective and beauty is in the eye of the beholder so don’t put too much pressure on yourself if you are just beginning or more advanced and in a rut.
My thanks to Walter Foster Publishing, an imprint of The Quarto Group, for providing me with an advanced eGalley/PDF copy of the book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This will be published on May 3rd, 2022. If you are a painter or someone you know is you may find this helpful for tips and inspiration too. Even if you don’t desire to recreate the exact examples books like this are perfect for ideas.
The synopsis says “learn to” paint but any painter can gain inspiration and get ideas from a book like this. It includes step by step instructions with photos for easy reference and guidance while working on your own piece. It notes recommended supplies and very nicely breaks the book down into sections based on birds, still life, flowers and more. It discusses paper, paints, brushes and even the basics on mixing and creating colors. I enjoyed the quick tip inserts and found them to be helpful and be great suggestions. Depending on your own style and techniques you use I would say that there may be some additional dry time for layers or effects not necessarily factored into the “15 minutes”. The same would go for set up and clean up but I do agree a lot of these guides and suggestions would be quick and doable for a beginner.
Never be afraid of experimenting with art. It could be exactly how you discover a talent you have or determine what you like best. Always keep in mind any art is subjective and beauty is in the eye of the beholder so don’t put too much pressure on yourself if you are just beginning or more advanced and in a rut.
My thanks to Walter Foster Publishing, an imprint of The Quarto Group, for providing me with an advanced eGalley/PDF copy of the book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This will be published on May 3rd, 2022. If you are a painter or someone you know is you may find this helpful for tips and inspiration too. Even if you don’t desire to recreate the exact examples books like this are perfect for ideas.
May 22, 2022
The 15-Minute Painting book is for the absolute beginner. You don't need any previous knowledge or anatomy lessons to be able to do any of these paintings. You can use any materials you already have. It's very straightforward.
It's a short easy to follow instructional booklet. Not many new things that haven't been done in other beginner's books. The blurb is spot on and I'd recommend it if you're looking for a book that doesn't intimidate you to start a new hobby or try things out.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
It's a short easy to follow instructional booklet. Not many new things that haven't been done in other beginner's books. The blurb is spot on and I'd recommend it if you're looking for a book that doesn't intimidate you to start a new hobby or try things out.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2022
1.5 stars.
I received an arc from NetGalley.
This book is aimed at more experienced drawers and beginners at watercolours.
It starts with a very comprehensive explanation of many of the things you need and the basics of watercolours. Yet it is missing two, in my opinion, very important aspects.
The first is watercontrol. This book never even talks about it, while it is really the most important thing of using watercolours. The amount of water you use decides how the colour behaves, and if you get watercolour blooms. I'm not saying watercolour blooms are necessarily bad, they can definitely be used in paintings, but it's better to understand how and why they appear rather than just have the reader figure it out on their own. Watercolour blooms are neglected completely, and are present in some of the pictures in the book. So the reader can't "replicate" the tutorials without making watercolour blooms, yet is never told how.
The second is how colours get muddied. Because this is 15 minute watercolour, everything is quite rushed, and colours blend into each other and get muddied. Again, this isn't necessarily bad, yet the first time the cause of this get mentioned was at page 83, if I'm correct. This should have been in the basic technique sections, discussing the difference between using colours while the paper is still slightly damp vs when it's completely dry. But it's never really explained other than "let it dry more if you want better defined colours." Which is a pity, because this book starts with some very strong, easy to understand explanations.
On to some other minor issues. It's assumed you can draw everything mentioned in the book, as the tutorials all start after the sketch is done. There is little mention of erasing pencil lines/making them light. Instead, we are told this is unnecessary because we'll cover it with watercolour anyway. transparent watercolour. And once you've added watercolour, the original pencil line gets hard/impossible to erase, so if they are still visable and you wish they weren't, tough luck. This isn't mentioned at all, and I wish it was.
Then there is the tutorial which clearly forgets one of the steps in the text. In the second bird picture, there is clearly some green dropped on the birds belly in the pictures, but the text only mentions using the dark green for the top of the head and the wings. I read this part three times to see if I just missed it, but it simply wasn't there.
While this book started out stong, with very good explanations, it misses some important things. Add to that the missing step in one of the tutorial and I have trouble giving this book a high rating.
I received an arc from NetGalley.
This book is aimed at more experienced drawers and beginners at watercolours.
It starts with a very comprehensive explanation of many of the things you need and the basics of watercolours. Yet it is missing two, in my opinion, very important aspects.
The first is watercontrol. This book never even talks about it, while it is really the most important thing of using watercolours. The amount of water you use decides how the colour behaves, and if you get watercolour blooms. I'm not saying watercolour blooms are necessarily bad, they can definitely be used in paintings, but it's better to understand how and why they appear rather than just have the reader figure it out on their own. Watercolour blooms are neglected completely, and are present in some of the pictures in the book. So the reader can't "replicate" the tutorials without making watercolour blooms, yet is never told how.
The second is how colours get muddied. Because this is 15 minute watercolour, everything is quite rushed, and colours blend into each other and get muddied. Again, this isn't necessarily bad, yet the first time the cause of this get mentioned was at page 83, if I'm correct. This should have been in the basic technique sections, discussing the difference between using colours while the paper is still slightly damp vs when it's completely dry. But it's never really explained other than "let it dry more if you want better defined colours." Which is a pity, because this book starts with some very strong, easy to understand explanations.
On to some other minor issues. It's assumed you can draw everything mentioned in the book, as the tutorials all start after the sketch is done. There is little mention of erasing pencil lines/making them light. Instead, we are told this is unnecessary because we'll cover it with watercolour anyway. transparent watercolour. And once you've added watercolour, the original pencil line gets hard/impossible to erase, so if they are still visable and you wish they weren't, tough luck. This isn't mentioned at all, and I wish it was.
Then there is the tutorial which clearly forgets one of the steps in the text. In the second bird picture, there is clearly some green dropped on the birds belly in the pictures, but the text only mentions using the dark green for the top of the head and the wings. I read this part three times to see if I just missed it, but it simply wasn't there.
While this book started out stong, with very good explanations, it misses some important things. Add to that the missing step in one of the tutorial and I have trouble giving this book a high rating.
May 21, 2022
I have done a couple of watercolor paintings and have really been wanting to learn the basics so that I can paint more and understand the tools and techniques. When I saw this book, I decided that it looked perfect and wanted to try it out. While there were some helpful things I learned from this book, I feel that there was too much lacking to make it really work for me. It would be better for someone who already has some knowledge of watercolor painting and is able to follow along more with simple explanations that didn't really explain well enough.
Things I liked about the book: There was a good description of paper options and brush choices. There was an aesthetically pleasing layout. I especially enjoyed the watercolor paper used in the background for the headings of each chapter. There was an explanation as to why certain colors were used for balance in one of the paintings. The animal and figure drawings/paintings had steps that were simple enough to follow successfully for a beginning painter.
Reasons the book was not for me: There wasn't enough explanation of some of the steps for the paintings. For example, there were steps listed for painting the azalea, but there weren't accompanying illustrations for the steps to make sense. For some paintings, steps were skipped. For example, there was a tip listed at the bottom of the page for painting birds. The tip said to let the branch dry first, but there was never a step to even paint the branch. There was also a direction for painting leaves that said to pull color from the outline, but it never said to paint the outlines. There were also things that as a beginner, I just didn't understand and wished could be explained better. For example, the phrases "wet on wet" , "dry on dry", and "wash of color".
While this book didn't end up being for me, with a few additions, it could be a better book for a beginner. Otherwise, someone who has some knowledge of watercolor painting may enjoy this author's ideas.
Thank you to #NetGalley for an ARC of #15MinutePaintingEffortlessWatercolor by #AngelaMarieMoulton in exchange for an honest review.
Things I liked about the book: There was a good description of paper options and brush choices. There was an aesthetically pleasing layout. I especially enjoyed the watercolor paper used in the background for the headings of each chapter. There was an explanation as to why certain colors were used for balance in one of the paintings. The animal and figure drawings/paintings had steps that were simple enough to follow successfully for a beginning painter.
Reasons the book was not for me: There wasn't enough explanation of some of the steps for the paintings. For example, there were steps listed for painting the azalea, but there weren't accompanying illustrations for the steps to make sense. For some paintings, steps were skipped. For example, there was a tip listed at the bottom of the page for painting birds. The tip said to let the branch dry first, but there was never a step to even paint the branch. There was also a direction for painting leaves that said to pull color from the outline, but it never said to paint the outlines. There were also things that as a beginner, I just didn't understand and wished could be explained better. For example, the phrases "wet on wet" , "dry on dry", and "wash of color".
While this book didn't end up being for me, with a few additions, it could be a better book for a beginner. Otherwise, someone who has some knowledge of watercolor painting may enjoy this author's ideas.
Thank you to #NetGalley for an ARC of #15MinutePaintingEffortlessWatercolor by #AngelaMarieMoulton in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2022
Learn to create simple, colorful works of art using easy, step-by-step watercolor painting techniques that require minimal time, effort, and only the most basic supplies.
An ideal "first book" for absolute beginners, 15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor uses large brushstrokes and minimal, colorful palettes to help budding artists create light, carefree paintings in practically no time at all. After a quick overview of the basic tools and materials, including papers, brushes, and paints, and a brief introduction to choosing and mixing colors, Effortless Watercolor demonstrates how to use just a few brushstrokes to create lively works of art in a simple, modern style.
From vibrant birds and florals to expressive landscapes and still lifes, follow along with these step-by-step projects to create quick-and-easy masterpieces—a perfect formula for artists just getting started. Effortless Watercolor provides a unique introduction to watercolor painting, from choosing the right brushes and paints to creating inspired works of art using easy painting techniques—no experience required.
Books in the 15-Minute Series are perfect primers for beginning artists who want to learn the basics. Designed to be used as artist notebooks, these interactive workbooks include prompts and exercises that allow beginning artists to test out their skills directly inside the book.
My Thoughts: This is a book packed full of information, well written, easy to follow, and lots of photos! This is a wonderful book for those just starting out in watercolor, or those interested to see what it may entail. With plenty of exercises and demonstrations for techniques and equipment needed, the reader will enjoy and get a lot of information from this book
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
An ideal "first book" for absolute beginners, 15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor uses large brushstrokes and minimal, colorful palettes to help budding artists create light, carefree paintings in practically no time at all. After a quick overview of the basic tools and materials, including papers, brushes, and paints, and a brief introduction to choosing and mixing colors, Effortless Watercolor demonstrates how to use just a few brushstrokes to create lively works of art in a simple, modern style.
From vibrant birds and florals to expressive landscapes and still lifes, follow along with these step-by-step projects to create quick-and-easy masterpieces—a perfect formula for artists just getting started. Effortless Watercolor provides a unique introduction to watercolor painting, from choosing the right brushes and paints to creating inspired works of art using easy painting techniques—no experience required.
Books in the 15-Minute Series are perfect primers for beginning artists who want to learn the basics. Designed to be used as artist notebooks, these interactive workbooks include prompts and exercises that allow beginning artists to test out their skills directly inside the book.
My Thoughts: This is a book packed full of information, well written, easy to follow, and lots of photos! This is a wonderful book for those just starting out in watercolor, or those interested to see what it may entail. With plenty of exercises and demonstrations for techniques and equipment needed, the reader will enjoy and get a lot of information from this book
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 21, 2022
When you don't have much time to paint
Self-taught artist and art teacher Angela Marie Moulton presents her book "15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor. From sketch to finished painting in just 15 minutes!" which was published by Quarto Publishing Group – Walter Foster. It is the first book in the 15-Minute Series The first part of the book is dedicated to topics such as "Tools & Materials," "Paints," and "Mixing Color." The second part of the book treats topics such as "Flowers," "Still Life," and "Animals." I highly appreciate the statement of Moulton in "Getting Started" Moulton: "While many people may feel inspired to paint with watercolor, the challenge is finding the time to make it happen This book will help you get started using approachable projects that can be completed in just 15 minutes. Of course, you may take more time, but you should be able to complete each project in one sitting. But remember, there are no hard and fast rules You are in charge You are in control. Sometimes all one needs is a little nudge. And now, you are off and running!" (p. 5). This can be an encouragement to beginners and advanced artists.
The book comes with quick tips, additional information (e.g., flesh and hair tones on p. 98), creative exercises, and also list the supplies needed for the various painting. As such it is a good book for beginners and advanced artists who need ideas when they do not have a lot of time to paint.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#15MinutePaintingEffortlessWatercolor #Netgalley
Self-taught artist and art teacher Angela Marie Moulton presents her book "15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor. From sketch to finished painting in just 15 minutes!" which was published by Quarto Publishing Group – Walter Foster. It is the first book in the 15-Minute Series The first part of the book is dedicated to topics such as "Tools & Materials," "Paints," and "Mixing Color." The second part of the book treats topics such as "Flowers," "Still Life," and "Animals." I highly appreciate the statement of Moulton in "Getting Started" Moulton: "While many people may feel inspired to paint with watercolor, the challenge is finding the time to make it happen This book will help you get started using approachable projects that can be completed in just 15 minutes. Of course, you may take more time, but you should be able to complete each project in one sitting. But remember, there are no hard and fast rules You are in charge You are in control. Sometimes all one needs is a little nudge. And now, you are off and running!" (p. 5). This can be an encouragement to beginners and advanced artists.
The book comes with quick tips, additional information (e.g., flesh and hair tones on p. 98), creative exercises, and also list the supplies needed for the various painting. As such it is a good book for beginners and advanced artists who need ideas when they do not have a lot of time to paint.
The complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley free of charge. I was under no obligation to offer a positive review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#15MinutePaintingEffortlessWatercolor #Netgalley
May 4, 2022
15 minute painting is a book for you who likes to finish a project in one sitting. The book has descriptions about what tools to use, and e.g what to paint: still life? Animals? It’s got it! Don’t know what kind of paper to use? Don’t worry, they got you.
I’m not a big painter myself, maybe I can draw a stick figure or splash some painting on a piece of paper and name them flowers, but beyond that? Not so much.
But with this painting book you get easy step by step guide to draw beautiful artwork! It really is motivating to see how easy it can be and to remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect on the first try or the 47th try. Because practice makes perfect (am I writing/remembering that correctly? Lol).
As an animal lover, those pages were the most fun part for me! I really enjoyed them and thought they were super adorable! What I do wish that the book had? More steps! I need a step-by-step to be as easy as it can be, even as silly as how to hold a brush e.g., but other than that, a great coloring book!
Happy reading!♥️
I got this book from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
I’m not a big painter myself, maybe I can draw a stick figure or splash some painting on a piece of paper and name them flowers, but beyond that? Not so much.
But with this painting book you get easy step by step guide to draw beautiful artwork! It really is motivating to see how easy it can be and to remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect on the first try or the 47th try. Because practice makes perfect (am I writing/remembering that correctly? Lol).
As an animal lover, those pages were the most fun part for me! I really enjoyed them and thought they were super adorable! What I do wish that the book had? More steps! I need a step-by-step to be as easy as it can be, even as silly as how to hold a brush e.g., but other than that, a great coloring book!
Happy reading!♥️
I got this book from netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2022
For busy people who just have 15 minutes per day to paint something, this is an encouraging, fun and practical book for learning how to do just that. I am an experienced artist and I painted an acceptable giraffe in under 3 minutes using one of the step-by-step instructions in this book! It's a good reminder that it is possible to paint something everyday!
Bear in mind though that the style is very very loose. This book will not be for you if you prefer detailed. You will need to know how to sketch. There are no step-by-step on how to draw any of the projects. Or just keep practising. Anyone can learn to draw with some guidance and practice.
I have often been told that blooming is quite unattractive in watercolor painting. Be prepared to see some blooms in this book. I guess the purpose is to just get something painted and sometimes you might not have time to wait for anything to dry - hence the blooms.
Still, this is a fun book. I might go and paint a few more of the projects.
Bear in mind though that the style is very very loose. This book will not be for you if you prefer detailed. You will need to know how to sketch. There are no step-by-step on how to draw any of the projects. Or just keep practising. Anyone can learn to draw with some guidance and practice.
I have often been told that blooming is quite unattractive in watercolor painting. Be prepared to see some blooms in this book. I guess the purpose is to just get something painted and sometimes you might not have time to wait for anything to dry - hence the blooms.
Still, this is a fun book. I might go and paint a few more of the projects.
May 3, 2022
Feeling creative but don’t have much time or money? 15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor can show you how to paint a beautiful watercolor in only fifteen minutes! Beginning watercolor kits containing all the supplies necessary are as low as $12.
With step-by-step instructions, 15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor will allow anyone to produce quality watercolor paintings. Each step includes a full-color picture too. The book begins with easier projects like leaves and flowers. It concludes with figures in motion and colorful bottles. There is a project for everyone here.
If you are looking for a new hobby, this book is an incredible help. It does require a bit of drawing ability upfront though. 4 stars!
Thanks to Walter Foster and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.
With step-by-step instructions, 15-Minute Painting: Effortless Watercolor will allow anyone to produce quality watercolor paintings. Each step includes a full-color picture too. The book begins with easier projects like leaves and flowers. It concludes with figures in motion and colorful bottles. There is a project for everyone here.
If you are looking for a new hobby, this book is an incredible help. It does require a bit of drawing ability upfront though. 4 stars!
Thanks to Walter Foster and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.
May 5, 2022
This is wonderful, colorful, visual tutorial for the beginner watercolorist, or for someone like me who’s been dabbling for quite some time without really knowing what I’m doing. The learning method is helpful to me. Instead of only providing guidelines, Ms. Moulton provides a wide variety of simple subjects to paint with the colors, brushes, and techniques for each painting. All of the paintings are simple and quick giving the satisfaction of starting and finishing a project in one sitting. By following the projects I don’t get discouraged by trying to paint detailed realism as watercolor lends itself to imagery and each subject doesn’t have to look like the real thing. I highly recommend this book for anyone wanting to start, or learn more, about watercolors andmwatercolor,techniques. Thank for #netgalley for the ARC of #15-MinutePainting:EffortlessWatercolor
April 4, 2024
This informative book covers everything you'll need to take up watercolour painting. It has a detailed section on tools and materials, that covers type of canvas/paper and then goes into the weight and texture of the watercolour papers. It also covers brushes, right down to the part names, types and sizes and of course the different types of paint.
The brush techniques section impressed me as it gave a load of ideas based on the different brush shapes.
When it covered the different topics such as flowers, birds, animals and figures, each project came with easy to follow instructions and gorgeous step by step pictures to match.
My absolute favourites being the hippo and chameleon!
I felt inspired after reading this book and can't wait to try some out for myself!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
The brush techniques section impressed me as it gave a load of ideas based on the different brush shapes.
When it covered the different topics such as flowers, birds, animals and figures, each project came with easy to follow instructions and gorgeous step by step pictures to match.
My absolute favourites being the hippo and chameleon!
I felt inspired after reading this book and can't wait to try some out for myself!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this; it was more of a technique reminder for me though, and a crash course in watercolor. I was given watercolor lessons as a gift about 10 years ago and fell in love with the medium, then I just stopped painting and sort of moved on to something else. During the pandemic however, I picked it back up again and realized that I lost a lot of what I learned. This was a nice reminder, with a lot of basic info on brushes, techniques, and color. There are bits of a guide and of course the author makes everything look so effortless, I would have liked a more stroke-by-stroke approach on things but for the most part it was a nice little lesson, but also a reminder that art is what you make and put into it. Find your own style.
April 26, 2022
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a beautiful book!
While the title says these paintings are effortless they seem like they take a bit of effort, but the book breaks everything down. There's information on brushes, techniques, and basic information like mixing colors. The book acts as a guide that lays out different images like flowers or birds and shows how to make them. Each image is pretty small and while I would have liked a bit more step-by-step as a beginner there is a good amount of information on how to bring each image to life.
There's helpful tips throughout the book as well as information on making your own paintings.
This is a beautiful book!
While the title says these paintings are effortless they seem like they take a bit of effort, but the book breaks everything down. There's information on brushes, techniques, and basic information like mixing colors. The book acts as a guide that lays out different images like flowers or birds and shows how to make them. Each image is pretty small and while I would have liked a bit more step-by-step as a beginner there is a good amount of information on how to bring each image to life.
There's helpful tips throughout the book as well as information on making your own paintings.
April 26, 2022
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the opportunity
to read and give an honest review of this book.
I am interested in all things watercolor as I dabble since learning to watercolor
four years ago. The colorful and enjoyable book of watercolor basics is for the beginner. It talks about paper, paints, and brushes in a brief introduction. It quickly moves on to blending and using water. Even though the paintings begin with simple sketches they really are about using and experimenting with colors.
Beginners can create something beautiful to use in a small frame or on a greeting card. This book is all about encouraging artists or crafters to give watercolors a try.
to read and give an honest review of this book.
I am interested in all things watercolor as I dabble since learning to watercolor
four years ago. The colorful and enjoyable book of watercolor basics is for the beginner. It talks about paper, paints, and brushes in a brief introduction. It quickly moves on to blending and using water. Even though the paintings begin with simple sketches they really are about using and experimenting with colors.
Beginners can create something beautiful to use in a small frame or on a greeting card. This book is all about encouraging artists or crafters to give watercolors a try.
April 29, 2022
This is a very attractive book with all the necessary background information to get you started in watercolor painting. The author also provides easy-to-follow step by step instructions and tips on several nice projects, all of which can be completed in 15 minutes or less!
It's readily apparent that a lot of thought and love went into the writing of this book. Good for beginners or those who have painted before, this makes it all seem very doable - often the first hurdle for someone interested in pursuing a new interest.
My thanks to Walter Foster Publishing for permitting me to access an ARC of the book via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are freely given.
It's readily apparent that a lot of thought and love went into the writing of this book. Good for beginners or those who have painted before, this makes it all seem very doable - often the first hurdle for someone interested in pursuing a new interest.
My thanks to Walter Foster Publishing for permitting me to access an ARC of the book via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and are freely given.
April 19, 2023
Fun little book for beginners. I'm not a watercolor beginner, but wanted to brush up on other techniques. I'm completely self-taught. Some techniques I question if they're the "correct" way, or just a way I've found that works for me. Most of these fall in line with what I've noticed as a self-taught watercolorist. I did find the breakdown of different brush styles and paper/surface textures to be valuable. I saw some complaints about the lack of breakdown with water control. I don't think there is a way to fully break down those techniques without experimenting. So in my view, that was not something lacking with this book.
April 20, 2022
I was very excited to take a look at this title. What I loved about it was how it made water color painting feel possible and accessible, even for those who do not see themselves as artists. The information on how to get started is straightforward and includes things like brushes, types of paper and paints. This section is specific and practical. Go on to learn about techniques and projects…and have fun.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto-Walter Foster Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto-Walter Foster Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.
April 22, 2022
I am always want to pick watercolour painting as new stress reliever hobby. But actually I don't have courage to try. In my opinion it is mostly depends on talents. But this book make me confidence that everyone can try make painting.
This book is suitable for beginner. It informing us with so much basic technics and training. Simple and adorable project that we can do and done in 15 mins.
I am eager to try some of the project.
Thanks Netgalley for providing me with this book. I am learning something new today.
This book is suitable for beginner. It informing us with so much basic technics and training. Simple and adorable project that we can do and done in 15 mins.
I am eager to try some of the project.
Thanks Netgalley for providing me with this book. I am learning something new today.
April 27, 2022
Finally an accessible guide to watercolor! I was thrilled to find this resource because I am a teacher and busy mom of a young son. Taking 15-30 minutes to be creative feels totally doable, and I never thought that I would say that about watercolor.
The book is designed so that the easier challenges are in the front. You get used to it and start developing watercolor skills at the same time! I am going to start using this with my students as well.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The book is designed so that the easier challenges are in the front. You get used to it and start developing watercolor skills at the same time! I am going to start using this with my students as well.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2022
Good book for creating quick watercolors. I believe these could actually be done in 15 minutes instead of some books that claim that, but there's no way you could do it. I'm not a fan of the pencil visible in the finished watercolor. Otherwise, I liked these watercolor paintings and the instructions seem straightforward. My favorites were the giraffe and the flesh & hair tones information. There is a lot of good instruction here, but like I said, I didn't like the pencil in the finished product.
I read an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I read an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2023
Loose and fun watercolor exercises. Very good if you want an expressive approach to flowers and abstract motifs. I think is useful to experiment with simple exercises, like making shapes, blend between colors etc. Quite a simple book, but works fine.
Si buscan un libro de ejercicios de acuarela, simple y expresivo, este funciona bien. No es de los mejores, pero es muy ligero, casual y los ejercicios son fáciles de entender. Es de un tipo de estilo que se repite en los distintos temas de pintura.
Si buscan un libro de ejercicios de acuarela, simple y expresivo, este funciona bien. No es de los mejores, pero es muy ligero, casual y los ejercicios son fáciles de entender. Es de un tipo de estilo que se repite en los distintos temas de pintura.
April 17, 2022
I, really loved the book. If you are a beginner and want to learn Watercolor Painting, then you cannot miss this one. The graphics are excellent and the artist has perfectly described each and every step. Also, materials to be used are also listed. Also, the author has included all the designs ranging from landscapes to floral to still life practicing which you can create your own designs also. Definitely, 5 stars for the book.
July 9, 2022
This is a little book that conquers right from the cover.. After the introduction to materials and basic techniques some very simple exercises follow that will convince the absolute beginners that they can manage it. Very colourful, full of joy, easy understanding: a good start for watercolour painting.. As other pubblications of the editor this one too has a good layout and rich illustrations.
June 8, 2022
Covers everything right from the start, from the types of brushes, paper, paints and different techniques to try. The exercises are simple and help explain some of the techniques, they also look nice as starter art. Some of the flowers and birds are quite impressive.
April 30, 2025
Not much instruction .. very abstract.. some looks quite amateur. Nothing about color theory at all. Definitely a specific style of loose abstract watercolor. I liked the utensils pictured … but not a pleasing aesthetic to my eye. Maybe just style differences.
April 27, 2022
Cute ideas the first few paintings are easy enough and look cute. I would have loved if there was a few more steps added for the advance lessons.
May 2, 2022
A wonderful book! I'm learning watercolor at the moment and this is a great book to further develop my skills. It's laid out well and easy to understand so highly recommended!!
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