How to Paint Figures in Watercolor from the Inside Out

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Use heavy weight paper

     For figure references use snapshots you've taken, magazines or even the daily newspaper.
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   Step 2: tag board

     Use your pencil, but hold it loosely near the top, rather than close to the lead, as you would to write.  Start with a lightly curved line for the spine.  Cross it almost at the top for shoulders, a few inches lower for the waistline and lower again for the hip line or pelvis.  This establishes the body's central mass. ,  Remember to bend the arms at the elbow and wrist. ,  Allow for the neck.
   
   Drop lines off the two sides of the hip line for legs.  Do them in three parts, just as you did the arms.  Bending legs at the hips, knees and ankles gives movement to the figure.,,  Paint directly over the pencil lines. ,  Keep it wider at the shoulders and tapered slightly at the hips.  ,, Add small triangles for feet and hands.  You will now have the shape of a person.  Let this dry thoroughly. ,  Paint right over the flesh-colored body, keeping your watercolor dense enough to let the colors shine, but still transparent.  ,  When the under layer is dry add more details up to three new layers.  Don't forget hair and facial features. ,  Bear in mind that people come in all shapes and sizes.  Use your photo references as a guide only, don't try for a realistic image.
   
   Also, try doing the stick figure in diluted paint with a small brush. ,
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   Step 3: or watercolor paper

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   Step 4: a pencil

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   Step 5: and a set of watercolors.

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   Step 6: Do a practice sheet of stick figures in various poses.

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   Step 7: From the edges of the shoulder do arms in three parts:  biceps

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   Step 8: lower arm and hand.

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   Step 9: Work upward and at the topmost of the spine

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    Step 10: do an oval for the head.

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    Step 11: Add elongated triangles for feet.

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    Step 12: To flesh out one of your stick figures

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    Step 13: mix puddle of flesh colored paint.

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    Step 14: Begin with the center mass or torso.

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    Step 15: Paint the neck and head shapes. 

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    Step 16: Think of sausages for the two parts of the arms and legs

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    Step 17: fatter ones for the tops of the arms and legs.

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    Step 18: Dress this stock figure in any clothing imaginable.

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    Step 19: Watercolor is a layering medium.

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    Step 20: If your first attempt is not quite up to what you envisioned

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    Step 21: repeat the process on another stick figure.

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    Step 22: Make the background as realistic as you wish---or keep it simple by painting random colors

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    Step 23: lines and shapes to link the figures.

Detailed Guide

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