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Simon Foster

This is a course all about creating beautiful watercolors in Procreate. Watercolor can be a challenging way of painting - you need the right tools, techniques and to understand the nature of watercolor. I've used real life watercolors for many years so I can explain how they work, plus I have developed multiple new digital techniques especially for this course.

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This is a course all about creating beautiful watercolors in Procreate. Watercolor can be a challenging way of painting - you need the right tools, techniques and to understand the nature of watercolor. I've used real life watercolors for many years so I can explain how they work, plus I have developed multiple new digital techniques especially for this course.

I'll take you right from initial brush strokes using the dozens of different brushes you get with the course. You'll practice your first brushstrokes using various sketches, color swatches and files that I supply. Then I take you through a series of follow along tutorials which give you increasingly advanced techniques and resources. Some of these techniques and resources you won't have seen before. That's because I've used my 35+ years experience as a professional designer/illustrator to create brand new directions using the tools Procreate gives us.

As well as over 4 hours of follow along/have a go yourself tuition, I'm giving you: 35 new watercolor brushes plus 72 brush heads, 22 watercolor splats, 56 watercolor splotches, 14 watercolor stencils, 12 watercolor textures, 18 white plus 18 gray paper textures, 20 pieces of line art to practice with, 52 color swatches based off real world paints, and 256... new ways of working with color. You are getting serious value for money with The Procreate Watercolor Masterclass.

This course is also a masterclass in using layer blend modes, clipping layers, layer masks plus various layer adjustments. Does any of that sound interesting? Yes? Great.

On this course you will:

  • Learn to create natural looking digital watercolors using Procreate

  • Learn effective digital watercolor technique

  • Learn new techniques developed for this course

  • Learn about masking fluid - done digitally

  • Learn how to control digital watercolor but also how to use it expressively

  • Get a masterclass in Layer Masks, Clipping Masks & Layer Blend Modes

  • Create backgrounds for your artwork

Did you ever feel stuck for something to paint once you completed a course like this? I've got various sketches waiting for you. Did you ever feel discouraged because you weren't sure about what to put in the background? I'll show you how to go wild with watercolor splodges. Were you ever unsure about which color to pick? I have 256 color secrets just waiting to be revealed...

If you can scribble with an Apple pencil on an iPad, you can do this. But even though I have plenty of sketches for you to work from (if you want) the end result is determined by the choices you make along the way, so there's plenty of room for you to create beautiful artwork your way.

Sometimes it's not about the countless hours you spend practicing a skill. It's about know-how. Enroll today, and I'll show you how.

See you on the course.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to create realistic watercolor paintings inside procreate
  • How to use brand new techniques for beautiful and flexible effects
  • How to use layer blend modes to create natural watercolor paper effects
  • How to use a never seen before color methodology

Syllabus

Your Digital Watercolor Journey Starts Here!
Hello and Welcome to the Course!
Say Hello to Your Watercolor Brush Set
Our First Project: Simple Watercolor, Part 1
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a set of custom watercolor brushes and textures, which allows artists to mimic traditional watercolor effects within Procreate
Offers a masterclass in layer masks, clipping masks, and layer blend modes, which are essential for creating complex digital art
Explores new techniques developed specifically for this course, which may offer unique approaches to digital watercolor painting
Includes a primer on Procreate, which may be helpful for users who are new to the software but may bore more experienced users
Requires an iPad and Apple Pencil, which may be a barrier to entry for some learners who do not already own these tools

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Reviews summary

Achieving realistic watercolor in procreate

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive guide to creating natural-looking digital watercolors in Procreate. Students frequently highlight the exceptional value derived from the extensive collection of brushes, textures, and resources included, often noting these assets significantly enhance their ability to achieve realistic effects. The instruction is generally regarded as clear, detailed, and easy to follow, effectively demonstrating techniques like layer blend modes and masking fluid. Many appreciate the practical projects that help solidify learning and build confidence, although a few suggest more advanced challenges could be beneficial. Overall, students find the course highly effective for elevating their digital art skills.
Projects help apply techniques and build skills.
"Loved the projects, they really helped solidify the techniques."
"The follow-along tutorials are excellent practice."
"Having sketches provided was great for getting started immediately."
"The pear painting project was perfect for mastering the basics."
Good coverage of key Procreate features like blend modes.
"The methods taught here, especially using blend modes, made a huge difference."
"Good explanation of Procreate features relevant to watercolor."
"Understanding layer blend modes was a game changer thanks to this course."
"Learning about digital masking fluid and clipping masks was very helpful."
Instructor explains concepts and techniques well.
"The instructor is clear and easy to follow."
"Overall very informative and broken down logically."
"The instruction is clear and encouraging throughout the modules."
"He explains everything step-by-step, making complex ideas accessible."
Course effectively teaches methods for natural look.
"Learned so many amazing techniques to make my digital watercolors look so realistic."
"The methods taught here... made a huge difference in achieving natural drips and blends."
"My paintings look so much better now, truly mimicking real watercolor."
"The techniques... mimic real watercolor surprisingly well using digital tools."
"I finally understand how to make digital watercolor look authentic."
Abundant high-quality brushes and assets provided.
"The brushes alone are worth the price."
"The resources package is incredibly generous."
"The sheer amount of resources provided is amazing."
"The included assets are a big plus for recreating traditional feel."
"I couldn't believe how many brushes and textures were included, it's fantastic value."
Some variations in pace, potential for more advanced content.
"Some parts felt a little slow, but overall very informative."
"Could maybe use a bit more challenging project towards the end."
"While great for learning fundamentals, advanced users might find it moves slowly at times."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Procreate Watercolor Masterclass with these activities:
Review Procreate Basics
Familiarize yourself with the Procreate interface and basic tools to ensure a smooth learning experience in the watercolor masterclass.
Browse courses on Digital Painting
Show steps
  • Explore the Procreate interface.
  • Practice using different brushes and tools.
  • Experiment with layers and blend modes.
Read 'Mastering Procreate' by Gilbert Schultz
Study a comprehensive guide to Procreate to gain a deeper understanding of the software's features and functionalities.
View Alter Ego: A Novel on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book chapter by chapter.
  • Try out the techniques described in the book.
  • Take notes on key concepts and features.
Practice Brushstrokes and Color Mixing
Refine your brushstroke control and color mixing skills in Procreate to better emulate the nuances of traditional watercolor painting.
Show steps
  • Create a series of practice sheets with different brushstrokes.
  • Experiment with blending colors to achieve desired hues.
  • Focus on creating smooth gradients and transitions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Digital Watercolor Study of a Simple Object
Apply the techniques learned in the course to create a digital watercolor painting of a simple object, such as a fruit or flower.
Show steps
  • Select a simple object to paint.
  • Create a sketch of the object in Procreate.
  • Apply watercolor techniques to create a digital painting.
  • Refine the painting with details and textures.
Read 'Color and Light' by James Gurney
Study the principles of color and light to enhance your understanding of how to create realistic and visually appealing digital watercolor paintings.
Show steps
  • Read the book chapter by chapter.
  • Analyze the color and light in existing watercolor paintings.
  • Experiment with different lighting scenarios in Procreate.
Explore Advanced Procreate Watercolor Tutorials
Seek out and follow advanced tutorials on creating digital watercolor effects in Procreate to further refine your skills and learn new techniques.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms.
  • Follow along with the tutorials, step by step.
  • Experiment with different techniques and approaches.
Create a Series of Digital Watercolor Landscapes
Embark on a project to create a series of digital watercolor landscapes, applying the techniques and knowledge gained throughout the course.
Show steps
  • Select a series of landscape photos as reference.
  • Create sketches of the landscapes in Procreate.
  • Apply watercolor techniques to create digital paintings.
  • Refine the paintings with details and textures.
  • Share your artwork online and gather feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete The Procreate Watercolor Masterclass will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Multimedia Artist
A multimedia artist creates art using a variety of digital and traditional techniques. This course helps you learn how to create realistic digital watercolors using Procreate, a particularly visually arresting medium that you can incorporate into your multimedia projects. The course provides techniques for creating natural-looking digital watercolors. The instruction in layer blend modes, clipping masks, and layer masks allows you to add depth and complexity to your artwork. The course offers new techniques developed for this course. You may find the new color methodology helps you in the creation of your artworks. As a multimedia artist, this course can help you expand your artistic skillset and offer your clients fresh and visually appealing works.
Illustrator
An illustrator creates images for a variety of media, including books, magazines, and websites. This course helps you develop skills in creating digital watercolors, a unique and visually appealing style that you can incorporate into your illustrations. The course offers techniques for creating natural-looking digital watercolors using Procreate. The instruction in layer blend modes, clipping masks, and layer masks allows you to add depth and complexity to your work. The large number of watercolor brushes, textures, and color swatches provided also offers a wide range of creative options, making it easier to create personalized illustrations. You may find the color methodology presented in this course useful for selecting color palettes that best suit your artistic vision. As an illustrator, this course can help you expand your artistic toolkit and offer clients a fresh, distinctive style.
Freelance Artist
A freelance artist works independently, taking on a variety of art-related projects for different clients. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn to create digital watercolors in Procreate, a popular tool in the design world. By learning effective digital watercolor techniques, you can expand your range of services and attract new clients. You can learn to create natural looking digital watercolors, as well as learn new techniques developed for this course. You may find the large number of resources provided, such as watercolor brushes, textures, and color swatches, to be particularly valuable for creating a variety of artwork. By completing this course, you can add a sought-after skill to your portfolio, increasing your appeal as a freelance artist.
Surface Pattern Designer
A surface pattern designer creates artwork for textiles, wallpaper, and other decorative surfaces. This course helps you learn how to create realistic digital watercolors in Procreate, which can be an attractive style for your patterns. The course provides a large number of watercolor brushes, splats, splotches, stencils, and textures. These resources can help you experiment with different patterns. The instruction on layer masks, clipping masks, and layer blend modes allows you to create complex, layered designs. The techniques taught in this course may help you develop flexible approaches to surface design. Learning the color methodology presented in this course may help you create harmonious color palettes for your patterns. As a surface pattern designer, this course can help you add a unique artistic dimension to your work.
Art teacher
An art teacher educates students in various art techniques and concepts. This course helps you learn how to create realistic digital watercolors using Procreate, which you can then pass on to your students. The course provides techniques for creating natural-looking digital watercolors. You may find the instruction in layer blend modes, clipping masks, and layer masks helpful in explaining complex concepts to your students. The new techniques taught in this course may provide you with creative approaches to teaching digital art. Learning the new color methodology presented in this course can help you explain color theory more effectively. With the numerous watercolor brushes, textures, and line art provided, you can create engaging lesson plans and projects for your students. By taking this course, you can expand your knowledge and enhance your teaching skills.
Graphic Designer
A graphic designer creates visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn how to create digital watercolors using Procreate. You can utilize digital watercolor effects in your designs. The skills you can potentially acquire, such as masking fluid techniques and layer blend modes, can help you create more complex and visually appealing designs. You can potentially apply the new color methodology presented in this course to enhance your understanding of color theory, allowing you to create visually harmonious and effective designs. The variety of watercolor brushes, splats, splotches, and textures available with the course may provide you with greater creative flexibility, making it easier to bring your unique visions to life. Enrolling in this course can help you broaden your creative toolkit and provide clients with unique design solutions.
Fine Artist
A fine artist creates original artwork for exhibition and sale. This course helps you learn how to create realistic digital watercolors using Procreate, which can expand your artistic repertoire. The course provides instruction in masking fluid techniques and layer blend modes, allowing you to create detailed and textured artwork. The new techniques taught in this course may provide you with flexible approaches to fine art creation. Learning the new color methodology presented in this course may help you develop unique color palettes for your art. With the numerous watercolor brushes, textures, and line art provided, you can experiment with a wide range of artistic styles. This course can help you diversify your skill set and offer a new dimension to your fine art pieces.
Digital Artist
A digital artist creates art using digital tools and software. As a digital artist, you are keen to improve your skills in painting digitally. This course directly helps you create digital watercolors inside Procreate. You may find the techniques you learn in creating realistic watercolor paintings to be useful in different digital art projects. You may find the new techniques for beautiful and flexible effects to be helpful as a digital artist. The never seen before color methodology may broaden your scope as a digital artist. The instruction in how to use Layer Blend Modes to create natural watercolor paper effects can help you enhance your skills in creating backgrounds and textures. This course may be useful to you as a digital artist.
Character Designer
A character designer creates the visual appearance of characters for animation, video games, and other media. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn to create digital watercolors in Procreate. You can incorporate this unique style into your character designs. The skills learned, such as using layer blend modes and masking techniques, can help you add depth and detail to your character illustrations. The techniques taught in this course may provide you with new approaches to character design. You may find the new color methodology presented in this course helpful for creating vibrant and appealing character color schemes. The course provides a variety of watercolor brushes, textures, and line art, that you may find useful for creating diverse character designs. By taking this course, you can expand your artistic toolset and create visually compelling character art.
Textile Designer
A textile designer creates designs for woven, knitted, or printed fabrics. This course helps you develop skills in creating digital watercolors, which can be a visually appealing addition to textile designs. The course offers techniques for creating natural-looking digital watercolors using Procreate. The instruction in layer blend modes, clipping masks, and layer masks allows you to add texture and complexity to your patterns. The large number of watercolor brushes, textures, and color swatches provided offers a wide range of creative options, making it easier to create unique textile designs. You may find the color methodology presented in this course useful for creating harmonious color palettes. As a textile designer, this course can help you expand your artistic toolkit and offer clients fresh and distinctive designs.
Concept Artist
A concept artist creates visual representations of ideas for use in films, video games, and other media. This course helps you create digital watercolors using Procreate, which you can incorporate into your concept art. The realistic watercolor paintings that you can learn to create in this course can help you add a unique touch to your concept designs. The lessons in masking fluid techniques and layer blend modes allows you to create detailed and visually striking artwork. You may find the new color methodology taught in this course useful for developing color palettes for your concepts. The numerous watercolor brushes, textures, and line art available with the course makes it easier to explore a wide range of artistic styles. With this course, you can develop your skills and diversify your concept art portfolio.
Storyboard Artist
A storyboard artist creates visual panels that illustrate a story's narrative for films, television, and commercials. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn how to create digital watercolors in Procreate. You can use this particular style to bring a unique aesthetic to your storyboards. The course's instruction in masking fluid techniques and layer blend modes allows you to add depth and visual interest to your panels. The techniques taught in this course may help you develop flexible approaches to visual storytelling. You may find the new color methodology presented in this course useful for creating impactful color palettes for your storyboards. With the numerous watercolor brushes, textures, and line art provided, you can experiment with various artistic styles. You may find that enrolling in this course can help you enhance your storytelling skills and diversify your artistic approach.
Printmaker
A printmaker creates original art by transferring images from a matrix onto paper or other materials. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn how to create digital watercolors using Procreate. You can integrate these digital techniques into your printmaking process. The course teaches effective digital watercolor techniques. These techniques may help you create unique and textured prints. You may find the instruction in masking fluid techniques and layer blend modes particularly useful as a printmaker. The new color methodology presented in this course can help you create harmonious color palettes for your prints. With the variety of watercolor brushes and textures available, you can explore different artistic styles. You may find this course helpful for expanding your artistic toolkit and creating innovative prints.
Animator
An animator creates moving images using various techniques. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn how to create digital watercolors using Procreate. You can apply this unique style to your animations. The course teaches you how to use layer blend modes and masking techniques, which can help you add depth and texture to your animation frames. The new techniques taught are specifically designed for digital watercolor, potentially providing you with innovative approaches to animation. You may find the new color methodology presented in this course helpful for creating visually appealing color palettes. The variety of watercolor brushes and textures available with the course can help you experiment with different artistic styles. By completing this course, you can broaden your artistic toolset and create visually captivating animations.
Art Director
An art director is responsible for the visual style and images in various projects, such as magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and film productions. This course may be useful to you, as it helps you learn how to create digital watercolors using Procreate, a unique style that you can incorporate into your projects. You may find the instruction in layer blend modes, clipping masks, and layer masks to be useful in adding depth and complexity to visual designs. You may find the techniques taught in this course insightful, as they could potentially inform your creative direction. You may find the new color methodology presented in this course insightful, as it could potentially help you in selecting color palettes. By understanding the techniques taught in this course, you can better guide artists and designers working on your projects. Investing in a course such as this can help you expand your artistic knowledge, enabling you to provide informed creative direction.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Procreate Watercolor Masterclass.
Although not specifically about watercolor, this book must-read for any artist interested in understanding color theory and how light interacts with surfaces. The principles discussed are universally applicable and will significantly improve the realism and depth of digital watercolor paintings created in Procreate. It's a valuable resource for understanding how to create believable lighting and color palettes.
Provides a comprehensive guide to using Procreate, covering everything from basic tools to advanced techniques. It's a valuable resource for understanding the software's capabilities and how to leverage them for digital art. While not specifically focused on watercolor, it provides a solid foundation for using Procreate effectively. It useful reference tool for all levels.

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