Watercolor Wednesday: Planning Paintings with Thumbnails

Class Description:

In this 30-minute class, you'll learn my process for planning paintings using thumbnails and color studies. I'll walk you through how I create rough sketches in my sketchbook to explore composition and design, then paint mini versions to work out my color palette. You'll gain insight into my decision-making process and discover how effective planning builds confidence when you sit down to paint your final piece. This class is perfect for anyone looking to approach their paintings with intention and clarity.

What You Will Learn:

How to create effective thumbnail sketches
Why thumbnails are essential to the planning process
How to paint color studies and mini versions
Decision-making strategies for composition and color
How planning leads to confident, successful paintings

Supplies You'll Need:

Watercolors
Round watercolor brushes
2 jars of water
A rag
A palette for mixing
Watercolor paper or sketchbook
Pencil
Eraser

About Instructor

Shelby Abrahamsen (Foxsy)

Shelby is the co-founder of Foxsy and the creator at Little Coffee Fox. She is a professional watercolorist, letterer, and artist with a passion for teaching others to reintroduce creativity back into their lives. Shelby lives in Chicago, IL with her husband Jon and her pets Summer, Basil, and Korra.

191 Classes