Hello! Today I’m talking about the most important two things to do when you get a new watercolor set (or any new medium)! I was inspired by Jen Rzasa at Altenew for this post, as a part of my Altenew Educator’s Certification Program.

I recently purchased the 36-pan watercolor set from Altenew and I was SO EXCITED to use them! So the first thing I did was swatch them out to get to know the colors a little better.

Did you know that Altenew has a beautiful swatch page already created for you? You can watercolor your own, or print one already done. (check it out here).

Since my printer will not print on heavy watercolor paper, I printed out the blank version on regular copy paper…(I did size it down a bit so I could make it fit into my watercolor case). Then, I took it to a copy center and copied it onto watercolor paper. Then I could swatch my colors!

After I swatched out the colors, using a gradient technique, I painted my very first card! I chose the Iris Paint-a-Flower from Altenew as my first victim, er, I mean…first masterpiece!!

I created a short video to show you the gradient technique, and secrets for watercoloring! Watch it below or in HD on YouTube:

I stamped the image and heat embossed it in gold on Altenew watercolor paper. I love this watercolor paper…it’s already A2 card sized and it’s nice and white!

Before I began watercoloring, I taped down my watercolor panel with purple tape. This helps to keep the panel from warping. I taped it to a cutting board so I could move it around as needed.

I used Jen’s technique of using clean, clear water first on one small part. Then I dropped in some color. I started with the green stems and leaves, then added a yellow center to the flowers. Then I worked on the purple irises.

Did you know there’s a watercolor color called “Deep Iris” in this set?! How perfect! That’s the color I chose for this image (surprise). Lol.

For the sentiment, I chose to gold heat emboss on black cardstock. It’s a little difficult to read in the photos, it says: “No one can limit your greatness.”

I cut down the card panel to 3.75″ x 5″. Then I finished it all off with some iridescent sequins and attached it to the card base with foam tape.

I’m often asked what supplies I use to make my cards and projects, so I’ve put together a list using affiliate links when possible. If you make a purchase with these links I may receive a small commission. These help me to keep up with blog costs and continue bringing you fun projects. Thank you so much for your support!

I hope you enjoyed this and got inspired to try a little simple watercoloring! Thanks for stopping by.