Back to basics: gouache

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

■ Try 12 techniques to make the most of gouache

■ Experiment and play to familiarise yourself with the medium

I am a firm believer that the best way to learn gouache is by allowing yourself the opportunity to play and experiment. Understanding the possibilities of working with gouache can spark inspiration, highlight techniques you love, and make apparent the ones you hate. It’s a process of discovery, and a very exciting part of your journey as an artist.

Here are a few ideas for techniques you can use to begin playing with your gouache paints:

1 Staining

Some artists like to add a layer of colour as a foundation for the rest of their painting. Those of you who have used media like oil, acrylic or watercolour should be familiar with staining as it’s a common painting technique that can also