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Creative Gouache: A Step-by-Step Guide to Exploring Opaque Watercolor - Build Your Skills with Layering, Blending, Mixed Media, and More!
Take your art in a bold new direction—go gouache! In Creative Gouache , artist Ruth Wilshaw shares her step-by-step techniques for creating brilliantly vibrant effects with this easy-to-master medium, a perfect companion for transparent watercolor.
In this comprehensive guide to gouache, you’ See what you can create with gorgeous, wall-to-wall color with Creative Gouache !
Perfect for creative beginners, the books in the Art for Modern Makers series take a fun, practical approach to learning about and working with paints and other art mediums to create beautiful DIY projects and crafts.
In this comprehensive guide to gouache, you’ See what you can create with gorgeous, wall-to-wall color with Creative Gouache !
Perfect for creative beginners, the books in the Art for Modern Makers series take a fun, practical approach to learning about and working with paints and other art mediums to create beautiful DIY projects and crafts.
- GenresArtNonfictionCrafts
361 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 28, 2021
51 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Wilshaw
5 books2 followersRuth is a self-taught artist obsessed with gouache. She loves to get inspired by nature, and most of her work involves painting landscapes.
When she's not painting, she's encouraging others to give this quirky medium a go, with tutorials and process videos on YouTube, Instagram and her website: https://moderngouache.com
When she's not painting, she's encouraging others to give this quirky medium a go, with tutorials and process videos on YouTube, Instagram and her website: https://moderngouache.com
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 10, 2021
I'd say this is one of the best gouache books I've seen so far. The step by step instructions are great, I loved the troubleshooting page (this is usually missing in other books) and the variety of projects is perfect.
I can't wait to try out the butterfly case or the cut out night sky painting.
I can highly recommend this to anybody interested in gouache. A perfect book for beginners.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I can't wait to try out the butterfly case or the cut out night sky painting.
I can highly recommend this to anybody interested in gouache. A perfect book for beginners.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2021
A help if you want to explore gouache
Self-taught artist Ruth Wilshaw presents her book "Creative Gouache. A Step-by-Step Guide to Exploring Opaque Watercolor - Build Your Skills with Layering, Blending, Mixed Media, and More!" which is one in the series "Art for Modern Makers" published by Quarto Publishing Group – Quarry. The book is divided into seven sections: 1) Essential Supplies, 2) Basic Techniques, 3) Inspired by Nature, 4) Landscapes, 5) Lettering, 6) Gouache and Mixed Media, and 7) Projects (e.g., Notebook Cover, Butterfly Case, ...).
Wilshaw shows her love for gouache in stating: "Gouache does have some quirks that differentiate it from regular watercolors, but its unusual qualities are what make it so special. You'll admire how the little paint tubes are packed with pigment, and how you can create beautiful watercolor-like washes alongside boldly opaque strokes. You'll marvel at the ability to rewet an area to fix a mistake, and you'll love the convenience of how quickly it dries in your sketchbook" (p. 8). She also underlines that there are other approaches for using gouache that hers (p. 8). The book is very thorough: the projects include the list of needed materials; furthermore, there are tips included (e.g., Paintbrush care, Tips for adding water to gouache, Creating symmetry, ...) and additional info (such as "Cotton versus wood pulp paper" or "Using leftover paint") and the book offers also templates for certain paintings and projects and an index which is highly appreciated.
Although the book's description states that it is for beginners I highly recommend it also for artists who don't have a lot of experience with gouache.
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.
#CreativeGouache #NetGalley
Self-taught artist Ruth Wilshaw presents her book "Creative Gouache. A Step-by-Step Guide to Exploring Opaque Watercolor - Build Your Skills with Layering, Blending, Mixed Media, and More!" which is one in the series "Art for Modern Makers" published by Quarto Publishing Group – Quarry. The book is divided into seven sections: 1) Essential Supplies, 2) Basic Techniques, 3) Inspired by Nature, 4) Landscapes, 5) Lettering, 6) Gouache and Mixed Media, and 7) Projects (e.g., Notebook Cover, Butterfly Case, ...).
Wilshaw shows her love for gouache in stating: "Gouache does have some quirks that differentiate it from regular watercolors, but its unusual qualities are what make it so special. You'll admire how the little paint tubes are packed with pigment, and how you can create beautiful watercolor-like washes alongside boldly opaque strokes. You'll marvel at the ability to rewet an area to fix a mistake, and you'll love the convenience of how quickly it dries in your sketchbook" (p. 8). She also underlines that there are other approaches for using gouache that hers (p. 8). The book is very thorough: the projects include the list of needed materials; furthermore, there are tips included (e.g., Paintbrush care, Tips for adding water to gouache, Creating symmetry, ...) and additional info (such as "Cotton versus wood pulp paper" or "Using leftover paint") and the book offers also templates for certain paintings and projects and an index which is highly appreciated.
Although the book's description states that it is for beginners I highly recommend it also for artists who don't have a lot of experience with gouache.
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.
#CreativeGouache #NetGalley
April 30, 2025
This book begins with information that is useful for beginners to gouache. This includes details about supplies and the basics of using gouache, including some different techniques. There is a handy table about troubleshooting tips for layering gouache, which was super useful. Details about ways to blend and the different effects you can create were also included as well as a brief discussion of color theory.
There were several projects included that are based on the author's original paintings and were project that go beyond just painting on a sheet of paper. Subjects of the paintings include flowers, a luna moth, landscapes, and lettering. The projects were just as creative as the paintings, and include some excellent ideas for gifts. Part of what I love about this book is the author's whimsical style, and the bold, gorgeous colors that are used.
I highly recommend this book for people looking to learn more about gouache and want inspiration for ideas that go beyond a flat painting. My thanks to Edelweiss and Quarry Books for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
There were several projects included that are based on the author's original paintings and were project that go beyond just painting on a sheet of paper. Subjects of the paintings include flowers, a luna moth, landscapes, and lettering. The projects were just as creative as the paintings, and include some excellent ideas for gifts. Part of what I love about this book is the author's whimsical style, and the bold, gorgeous colors that are used.
I highly recommend this book for people looking to learn more about gouache and want inspiration for ideas that go beyond a flat painting. My thanks to Edelweiss and Quarry Books for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 20, 2022
I am a complete beginner when it comes to watercolor and basically art in general. This book provides a lot of beginner details that I haven't been able to find in other guides. I appreciated the section on essential supplies with an eye toward expense. This is important to me since as a beginner I'm not quite ready for top quality supplies yet. The rest of the book builds on simple techniques to create art that become increasingly detailed. There is even a section on lettering which I was not expecting to find, and how to incorporate mixed media including watercolor, colored pencils, and paint pens. The projects at the end of the book are described clearly and step-by-step so you can follow along easily, and there are even some templates in the back that can be used for the projects. I'd highly recommend this book for beginner or intermediate-level artists looking to learn new techniques and try out some guided projects.
Thank you to Ruth Wilshaw, Quarto, and Edelweiss for free access to this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Ruth Wilshaw, Quarto, and Edelweiss for free access to this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2021
This is a beautifully illustrated book packed with information. It starts from the basics of what gouache paint is, how to use it, what brushes to use and how to look after them, what surfaces to paint on, how much water to use to get what effects and much more. From there it then gives you exercises to follow to get you used to using gouache paint., these are well explained and have step-by-step photos to guide you.
Finally, there are 9 projects covering all the skills you've learnt in the exercises including lettering, layering, painting on wood and air drying clay. Most of the exercises and projects are based around nature, but there are also some for hand lettering too.
I really enjoyed this book and it has given me lots of ideas of things to do beyond the projects inside. It definitely makes me want to dig out my paints and give gouache another go!
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this ARC in return for an unbiased review.
Finally, there are 9 projects covering all the skills you've learnt in the exercises including lettering, layering, painting on wood and air drying clay. Most of the exercises and projects are based around nature, but there are also some for hand lettering too.
I really enjoyed this book and it has given me lots of ideas of things to do beyond the projects inside. It definitely makes me want to dig out my paints and give gouache another go!
Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this ARC in return for an unbiased review.
October 10, 2021
This is an excellent guide to painting with gouache! I've used gouache before, but I learned so many techniques and tips here that I am now itching to put to use. The innovative projects have easy step-by-step tutorials and the end results are gorgeous. I had no idea you could do so many things with gouache. I haven't used mine in years, but now I have to pull them out and try some of these techniques.
I must order a physical copy of this book to use as a reference while painting because there's no way I can absorb and remember everything laid out so deceptively simply here in one reading.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Quarry Books for providing an e-arc for review.
I must order a physical copy of this book to use as a reference while painting because there's no way I can absorb and remember everything laid out so deceptively simply here in one reading.
*Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Quarry Books for providing an e-arc for review.
January 4, 2022
** Free Copy received courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher **
I'm so glad that the amount of books for gouache are increasing. While gouache is opaque watercolor, most watercolor books are not really oriented towards using opacity intentionally, or addressing gouache specifically. So seeing Creative Gouache was great as it adds specific techniques and approaches meant for gouache that until recently, hasn't been very common in art instructional books. This covers mostly small nature/floral paintings which seems to be popular in gouache books lately. The exercises and trouble shooting for the projects are where this book stands out. Very fun.
I'm so glad that the amount of books for gouache are increasing. While gouache is opaque watercolor, most watercolor books are not really oriented towards using opacity intentionally, or addressing gouache specifically. So seeing Creative Gouache was great as it adds specific techniques and approaches meant for gouache that until recently, hasn't been very common in art instructional books. This covers mostly small nature/floral paintings which seems to be popular in gouache books lately. The exercises and trouble shooting for the projects are where this book stands out. Very fun.
November 1, 2021
Copy provided through netgalley in exchange for a review.
I'll admit I was selfish in picking this title. I recently got a huge box of gouache paint and had never used them before. I wanted to learn how to use them properly past what I originally bought them for.
This book is excellent for beginners like me and really goes in depth covering all you need to know like brush handling and color theory.
I'll admit I was selfish in picking this title. I recently got a huge box of gouache paint and had never used them before. I wanted to learn how to use them properly past what I originally bought them for.
This book is excellent for beginners like me and really goes in depth covering all you need to know like brush handling and color theory.
November 11, 2021
Awesome book. Great for beginners. I am new to painting and this book has immensely helped me to learn and understand about gouache and painting in general. Also the books gives lots of information on how gouache can be used in various medium and not just on paper. Each chapter deals with different projects on how gouache can be used. Also the projects are well explained step by step and doesn't intimidate a newbie like me.
November 13, 2021
This is the most detailed painting book that I have ever read. I think this book is just perfect for someone that would love to learn a new medium or is a beginner. The photos and instructions are very easy to follow along, the projects are fun and exciting and I think so many people could benefit from this book.
Thanks Netgalley for an advanced reader's copy and thank you Ruth for writing such a wonderful book.
Thanks Netgalley for an advanced reader's copy and thank you Ruth for writing such a wonderful book.
November 10, 2021
Nice easy projects and beautiful paintings. This book is perfect for a beginner. I enjoyed reading this one, it's simple but effective. I liked the butterfly project and the ring holder; I may try those on my own one day.
~Free ebook from netgalley for review.~
~Free ebook from netgalley for review.~
December 28, 2021
This is a great resource for beginning gouache painters and anyone looking for inspiration. The art is well presented and explained. This book would make a great gift for young artists
September 20, 2022
Well written. Good art techniques and ideas-I really love the idea of using excess gouache on blank pages of your sketchbook so that you don't waste it.
November 14, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Creative Gouache is a tutorial and technique guide to gouache for beginners by Ruth Wilshaw. Due out 30th Nov 2021 from Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 144 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is a graphically appealing, well written, and attractive technique book for opaque watercolor and gouache with 9 pretty tutorials including bullet journal layout, dimensional painting, notebook cover, and a painted slab clay dish. The author provides a good basic introduction covering tools, supplies, brushes and other tools, paints, papers, and other surfaces. The supplies covered should be readily available from any art supplies and painting crafts retailer. The technique chapters are arranged around specific settings or effects: basic techniques, inspired by nature, landscapes, lettering, gouache and mixed media techniques.
Each of the tutorials includes a bullet list of materials in a highlighted sidebar, pictures of the finished project, and step by step illustrated instructions. The photos are clear and in color. The lessons and tutorials are creative and can be easily adjusted and adapted to suit many other purposes. Full size templates are included in the back of the book.
Five stars. Useful and appealing. This would make a good choice for public or school library acquisition, maker's groups, activity/scouting groups, or the home studio.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Creative Gouache is a tutorial and technique guide to gouache for beginners by Ruth Wilshaw. Due out 30th Nov 2021 from Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 144 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is a graphically appealing, well written, and attractive technique book for opaque watercolor and gouache with 9 pretty tutorials including bullet journal layout, dimensional painting, notebook cover, and a painted slab clay dish. The author provides a good basic introduction covering tools, supplies, brushes and other tools, paints, papers, and other surfaces. The supplies covered should be readily available from any art supplies and painting crafts retailer. The technique chapters are arranged around specific settings or effects: basic techniques, inspired by nature, landscapes, lettering, gouache and mixed media techniques.
Each of the tutorials includes a bullet list of materials in a highlighted sidebar, pictures of the finished project, and step by step illustrated instructions. The photos are clear and in color. The lessons and tutorials are creative and can be easily adjusted and adapted to suit many other purposes. Full size templates are included in the back of the book.
Five stars. Useful and appealing. This would make a good choice for public or school library acquisition, maker's groups, activity/scouting groups, or the home studio.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
January 29, 2025
“Creative Gouache” — A Beginner’s Guide to Painting Without Losing Your Mind
If you’ve ever stared at a blank canvas (or paper) and thought, “I have no idea what I’m doing, but I want it to look good,” Ruth Wilshaw has your back. Creative Gouache is like having a cheerful art teacher whispering step-by-step instructions in your ear—with none of the judgment if you accidentally mix mud-colored paint.
This book is perfect for beginners who want to dabble in the wonderfully forgiving world of gouache (a.k.a. “opaque watercolor” for us fancy types). The templates and step-by-step projects are simple enough to build your confidence, yet the results are stunning enough to make you look like you totally knew what you were doing.
The silhouette projects, in particular, are a standout—easy to follow and satisfying in that “Oh wow, I made this” kind of way. Plus, the layering and blending techniques are explained so clearly that even the clumsiest of us can create something frame-worthy.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. It’s approachable, practical, and might even make you love gouache as much as Ruth clearly does. Just don’t be surprised if you get so good at painting that your home slowly transforms into an art supply store.
If you’ve ever stared at a blank canvas (or paper) and thought, “I have no idea what I’m doing, but I want it to look good,” Ruth Wilshaw has your back. Creative Gouache is like having a cheerful art teacher whispering step-by-step instructions in your ear—with none of the judgment if you accidentally mix mud-colored paint.
This book is perfect for beginners who want to dabble in the wonderfully forgiving world of gouache (a.k.a. “opaque watercolor” for us fancy types). The templates and step-by-step projects are simple enough to build your confidence, yet the results are stunning enough to make you look like you totally knew what you were doing.
The silhouette projects, in particular, are a standout—easy to follow and satisfying in that “Oh wow, I made this” kind of way. Plus, the layering and blending techniques are explained so clearly that even the clumsiest of us can create something frame-worthy.
Would I recommend this book? Absolutely. It’s approachable, practical, and might even make you love gouache as much as Ruth clearly does. Just don’t be surprised if you get so good at painting that your home slowly transforms into an art supply store.
November 25, 2021
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a beautiful book!
The book is a guide to using gouache and other media. There is information on materials, tips on painting, and information on projects. Some of the instructions could have been a bit more detailed for beginners. The pictures are beautiful and there are some nice projects to try.
Overall a nice find!
This is a beautiful book!
The book is a guide to using gouache and other media. There is information on materials, tips on painting, and information on projects. Some of the instructions could have been a bit more detailed for beginners. The pictures are beautiful and there are some nice projects to try.
Overall a nice find!
September 12, 2024
This is a wonderful book that is simple to follow, perfect for beginners. I love how the projects are set out, with step-by-step instructions and clear photos, with interesting subjects and different uses. The author's enthusiasm and passion shows on every page, and there's plenty of inspiration to create your own projects as well. Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews