How to Paint White with Watercolor: The Art of Suggestion
When painting with watercolors, there’s a little twist: you don’t actually paint white. Instead, you rely on the white of the paper to shine through and convey the idea of white objects.
This technique might sound tricky, but it’s one of the things that makes watercolor so magical!
In this blog post, I’ll share tips for "painting" white along with essential watercolor painting techniques for beginners.
Right now it's December and I live in Minnesota so snowmen are on my mind. I show you how to paint one too here on youtube and another one here on instagram.
Step 1: Define the Shape by Painting Around It
The key to creating white areas is to leave the paper untouched in those spots.
This technique is known as negative painting. For a snowman, start by sketching lightly with a pencil to define its shape.
If drawing is a barrier for you, I create workbooks with pre-drawn images and video instruction. My Winter Workbook has a snowman project included!
Then, when adding background elements, paint everything around the snowman, carefully leaving the white paper untouched for its body.
This method is essential for achieving clean, bright whites in watercolor art. This approach works beautifully for creating crisp edges.
To make your snowman pop, consider using colors that contrast with white, such as a deep blue sky or warm golden sunlight.
Adding a bold background not only enhances the snowman’s shape but is the perfect way to paint white objects with watercolor effectively.
Step 2: Add Shadows to Suggest Form
White objects, like snow, are rarely pure white. Shadows add depth and make your snowman feel three-dimensional.
Mix a soft gray or a cool blue (such as ultramarine mixed with a tiny bit of burnt sienna) for the shadows.
Apply this color sparingly to areas where the light wouldn’t directly hit, such as the bottom edges of each snowball or the side away from your light source.
This technique is vital for creating dimension in watercolor painting.
Remember to keep the shadow color light and transparent. This keeps the snowman’s body looking soft and snowy rather than heavy or opaque.
Learning how to add shadows in watercolor is a crucial step in mastering realistic painting.
Step 3: Add Details and Texture
Your snowman will feel more realistic if you include small details that suggest its texture and environment. For example:
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Buttons and a Scarf: Paint these accessories in bright, bold colors to contrast with the white of the snow.
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Snowy Sparkle: Use a dry brush technique with a very light gray or blue to suggest uneven textures on the snow.
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Reflected Light: Add a faint warm hue (like a diluted yellow) to areas where sunlight might reflect off the snow. These details highlight the magic of watercolor and light.
Optional: Masking Fluid for Precise Whites
If you’re worried about accidentally painting over the snowman, masking fluid can be a helpful tool.
Apply it to your snowman’s shape before painting the background.
Once the background is dry, peel off the masking fluid to reveal clean white paper.
This technique works especially well for preserving intricate shapes or highlights and is a great option for beginners learning to control their watercolor techniques.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once your snowman and its surroundings are painted, step back and evaluate.
Do the shadows give it enough dimension?
Is there enough contrast between the white snow and the background?
Add finishing details, like soft snowflakes in the sky or a light shadow under the snowman to anchor it to the ground.
These small adjustments will help your painting feel complete and vibrant.
Why Painting White Is an Artful Challenge
Painting white with watercolor is all about learning to see.
By focusing on shadows, contrasts, and the art of leaving paper untouched, you’ll create luminous, vibrant paintings that capture the subtle beauty of light.
A snowman is the perfect subject to practice this skill, and with a little patience, you’ll be "painting" white like a pro.
Ready to try it?
Gather your watercolors and explore the magic of creating white objects without white paint.
Follow along step by step with me on YouTube here.
Get inspired with a quick little video from me on Instagram here.
With these watercolor painting tips, you’ll take your skills to the next level.
Happy painting!
-Alyssa
