Looking for a festive, creative project that’s fun, playful, and full of shimmer? These Watercolor Ornaments are the perfect holiday-themed art journal page. We’ll be using watercolors, mixed media tools, and even the rim of a drinking glass to create vibrant ornaments that shine and sparkle. Let’s dive into this relaxed, build-as-you-go process that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned creators alike!
Prep your art journal page by taping off the edges with painter’s tape. Start by wetting down your watercolor palette so your paints are ready to go. Grab a few different glasses or circular items to trace your ornaments. This is all about fun, so don’t worry about perfection.
Using the rim of a glass dipped into watercolor paint, stamp circles directly onto your paper. This is your ornament base! Then, use a wet brush to blend the color inside the shape, letting the watercolor do its thing. Repeat with different colors for each ornament.
Continue adding ornaments across your page. Odd numbers tend to work well compositionally (three or five). Let the edges of some ornaments hang off the page for that classic “dangling from the tree” look.
Once your ornaments are dry, start adding your background. Use shades of green to mimic pine tree branches and holiday greenery. Add depth by layering different greens, and try dropping darker green pigment into wet areas to let the color flow naturally.
Once your piece is fully dry, use a gold pen or paint to add ornament toppers and strings. You can also outline your ornaments with black or gold to make them pop off the page.
Optional: Add tiny details or linework to your bulbs – swirls, stars, dots, or even words like “peace” or “joy.”
With a liner brush (or even a fan brush), use green acrylic paint or deeper watercolors to paint in hints of pine needles. Keep it loose and playful – you’re creating the impression of tree branches, not realistic detail.
Time to shine! Use a glitter varnish, gloss sealer, or Diamond Glaze over the ornaments for a beautiful, glossy finish. Some sealers can reactivate watercolor, so apply lightly or spray seal first if needed.
Add a soft green ink or watercolor around the edges for a subtle vignette effect. Sign your work, step back, and admire your festive creation!
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Supply List:
- Grumbacher 7 X 10 Watercolor Pad
- Sennilier Watercolors
- Painter’s Tape
- Dynasty Brushes
- Gold Leafing Pen Marvy Uchida DecoColor
- Gloss on Ornaments: DecoArt DuraClear Galaxy Glitter Varnish and DecoArt DuraClear High Gloss
- Ranger Archival Black Ink and Rustic Wilderness
Check out Tracy’s Art Journal Starter Kit!
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