If you’re in the mood for a playful, colorful art journal page that’s as fun to create as it is to look at, you’re in the right place. This watercolor flower art journal tutorial was created using my brand new paintbrush set, and I had a blast putting each one to work! With a soft background, pretty florals, and whimsical touches, this project is all about trusting the process and letting your creativity lead the way.
Prep your art journal page by taping off the edges with painter’s tape. Mist your watercolor palette with water to activate the colors.
Start with the ½” flat brush to create a soft background wash. I used a mix of gray and teal, letting the color run with water to create a cloudy, abstract backdrop. Let some white space peek through – this layer is just your foundation. Dry it completely before moving on.
With your round brushes (sizes 4 & 6), start building your flower. I didn’t sketch first – I just dropped in yellow for my flower center, and pink and red watercolor to form petal shapes, letting them blend a bit as they touched. Let the paint flow and have fun with the form. If your colors bleed or feel out of control, dry your brush and gently guide them back into place. Dry with a heat tool.
Once your flower is dry, go in with your Sharpie and add outline details. You don’t need to trace perfectly – this is meant to be loose and expressive. Scribble around the flower center and outline petals however they want to be shaped. Add some fun little dots and extra squiggles for energy.
Load your ¼” stencil brush with black acrylic paint (dab off the excess!), then swirl it gently into the flower center. This adds instant texture without dotting forever. Use the same brush and technique to add extra shading at the petal bases if you’d like.
Use the liner brush to add soft vines, light strokes of white or teal acrylic, and other tiny marks that give the piece movement. Then grab your foam mini detailer to create the cutest little swirls and dots. Start in the center and lighten your pressure as you go outward to get that perfect spiral effect. I also added a few tiny hearts using teal and red for a pop of contrast. A little splatter of white acrylic with my fan brush gave it just the right finishing touch.
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Supply List:
- 7 X 10 Watercolor Journal
- Painter’s Tape
- Watercolors: Classics
- Pen: Sharpie Dual Tip
- Acrylic Paint: Extreme Sheen Sterling Silver, Cobalt Turqoise Hue, Carbon Black and Titanium White
- Dynasty Foam Detailer
- Brushes: Dynasty
Check out Tracy’s Art Journal Starter Kit!
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