Tutorial

Leonie Norton

Botanical Artist and Tutor

WATERDROPS

	Before painting the waterdrop, observe the reaction of water on the plant surface. Different surfaces hold different shaped drops and some surfaces repel water so no drops form.
	Think about suitability. Some flowers and leaves are not associated with waterdrops, while others such as camellias or roses are often represented with drops.

NOTE: The examples above have hard edges only to distinguish the different tones. When painting, the colours will be blended so no hard edges appear.

	Wet size 0 nylon brush and gently remove some paint from the plant surface in the shape of the required waterdrop.
	Blot excess water from area and ensure it is dry before continuing.
	Outline the droplet shape in a darker colour to the surface area. If painting a droplet on a leaf, the outline will be a darker shade of green than the leaf. The addition of a minute amount of Paynes Grey is useful.
	To outline the drop, use a very fine brush to paint a thin, even line. The use of a magnifying glass at this stage is helpful.
	Using the droplet examples above, paint the upper section in a darker surface colour. Paint the lower section in White (gouache, Chinese or Titanium white).
	Blend the upper and lower sections together in the centre.
	The centre should be a similar colour to the underneath surface area.
	Add a small dot of White for the circular reflection in the upper section.