Competitions
Shop By
Gouache Painting
Gouache is a water-based medium known for its rich opacity and vibrant, matte finish. It sits somewhere between watercolour and acrylic, combining the transparency and fluidity of watercolour with the opacity and boldness of acrylic paint. Due to its versatility and ease of use, gouache is popular among illustrators, fine artists, and designers.
At Eckersley’s, we offer an extensive range of high-quality gouache paints, perfect for both beginners and experienced artists who want to experiment with new textures, styles, and techniques.
Gouache vs. Watercolour: Understanding the Differences
When considering gouache vs. watercolour, the differences in opacity, texture, and techniques are key to determining which medium will best suit your artistic goals. Both are water-based, but each has its distinct characteristics.
Opacity and Texture
One of the most notable differences between gouache and watercolour is their opacity. Gouache contains more pigment and includes an added white element, which makes it significantly more opaque. Artists can layer gouache more easily, covering mistakes or adding highlights without losing vibrancy.
Watercolour, in contrast, is much more transparent, allowing light to pass through and reflect off the paper, creating soft, glowing effects. The layering process with watercolours is subtle and delicate, as each layer builds transparency rather than covering previous layers completely.
In terms of texture, gouache is thicker and more chalky, whereas watercolour dries to a softer, more delicate finish, often revealing the texture of the paper underneath.
Techniques and Applications
The techniques you use for gouache and watercolour differ primarily in how the paint behaves when applied. With watercolour, common techniques include wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry, where washes of colour blend and spread to create soft, fluid transitions. These methods are ideal for atmospheric effects like skies, landscapes, and soft backgrounds.
On the other hand, gouache allows for precise, opaque layers. Artists often use gouache for bold, solid areas of colour and more detailed illustrations. It’s perfect for graphic designs, posters, and fine art where vibrant, solid colours are needed. Additionally, gouache can be reactivated with water after it dries, making it more forgiving than acrylic.
How to Use Gouache: Essential Techniques
Gouache’s unique properties allow artists to explore various techniques. While it shares some similarities with watercolour, gouache requires a slightly different approach to achieve the best results.
Blending and Layering
Gouache is excellent for blending, thanks to its creamy consistency. To blend colours smoothly, apply gouache in layers and use a damp brush to merge colours at the edges. Because gouache can be reactivated with water, you can continue blending even after it has dried, allowing for smooth transitions between colours.
When it comes to layering, gouache stands out. Unlike watercolour, where layering can be tricky, gouache maintains its colour vibrancy and opacity across multiple layers. You can confidently layer light colours over dark ones, making it easier to create highlights and detailed sections of your work.
Achieving Vibrant Colours and Smooth Finishes
One of gouache’s greatest strengths is its ability to produce vibrant, flat colour. To get the best results, use thick applications for solid blocks of colour, or thin down the paint with water for more subtle effects. Its fast-drying nature allows you to work quickly while maintaining intense pigmentation.
For smooth finishes, apply gouache with consistent strokes, ensuring the paint is evenly mixed with water. This prevents streaks and uneven patches, resulting in a flawless matte finish. Artists often favour gouache for professional illustrations because of this even, rich look.
Choosing the Right Gouache Supplies
To get started with gouache, having the right supplies is essential. At Eckersley’s, we provide everything you need, from premium gouache paints to high-quality brushes and papers.
Gouache Paint Options at Eckersley’s
Eckersley’s offers a wide range of gouache paints from leading brands. Whether you’re a beginner looking for basic sets or a professional seeking a broader colour spectrum, we stock individual colours and comprehensive kits to match your needs. Choose from rich, primary hues or more nuanced, earth-toned sets, all known for their superior pigmentation and smooth application.
Brushes and Paper for Gouache
The right tools, such as brushes and paper, can make all the difference in gouache painting. Round brushes work well for detailing and smooth blending, while flat brushes are ideal for covering large areas with bold strokes. Soft brushes help with layering, while stiffer brushes can create more textured effects.
When selecting paper, it’s important to choose a surface that can handle gouache’s thicker consistency. Watercolour paper is a popular choice, as it absorbs water well and provides the right texture.
Tips for Creating with Gouache
As you develop your gouache skills, experimenting with different techniques and tools will help you refine your style and improve your final results.
Experimenting with Texture and Style
Gouache offers great flexibility for exploring different textures and effects. By adjusting the water-to-paint ratio, you can move from bold, opaque applications to softer, more transparent layers. Additionally, try dry brushing for a textured, grainy look, or mix gouache with other media like pencil or ink to add extra depth to your artwork.
Caring for Gouache Artwork
Because gouache can be reactivated with water, finished pieces need to be handled with care. To preserve your artwork, avoid getting it wet or smudging the surface. Applying a protective spray varnish can help seal the surface and protect against moisture and smudging. Storing gouache paintings under glass or in a portfolio is another effective way to keep them in pristine condition.
Shop Gouache Paints at Eckersley’s Today
Ready to dive into the vibrant world of gouache? At Eckersley’s, we stock a full range of gouache paints and supplies to help you explore this dynamic medium. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, you’ll find everything you need to create stunning, vibrant pieces. Shop today and bring your next masterpiece to life with our high-quality gouache paints and accessories!
We accept
