Review of Watercolor the Easy Way: Step-by-Step Tutorials for 50 Beautiful Motifs Including Plants, Flowers, Animals & More
From the moment I flipped through the pages of Watercolor the Easy Way by the talented author, Elizabeth F. Mayhew, I felt a tingle of excitement. The enchanting world of watercolors has always intrigued me, yet my artistic attempts had often resulted in more frustration than satisfaction. This beautifully illustrated book promised a refreshing approach, and I couldn’t help but dive in.
Overview and Personal Reflections
The book is brimming with charm and is tailored specifically for beginners—like me—who are eager to explore the medium without drowning in overly complex techniques. Mayhew’s promise of 50 step-by-step tutorials that can be completed in 30 minutes or less feels like a friendly nudge, encouraging even the most hesitant souls to pick up their brushes. Each tutorial is thoughtful yet uncomplicated, gradually building a foundation in mixing colors, mastering brush strokes, and creating appealing artworks.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its user-friendly layout. Each project is accompanied by clear, concise instructions paired with adorable, hand-drawn patterns that can easily be traced directly onto the pages. While some critics mentioned that they would prefer blank spaces to paint on, I found the outlines a useful guide—almost like a safety net for my novice skills.
Writing Style and Pacing
Mayhew’s writing style is warm and inviting, making it feel like you’re learning from a friend rather than a strict instructor. The pacing is perfect: fast enough to keep you engaged but slow enough to allow for genuine learning. I particularly appreciated how the tutorials are broken down into manageable steps—no more than three to four—allowing me to savor the process and occasionally celebrate mini “masterpieces,” though I use that term generously!
Memorable Highlights
The testimonials from other readers resonated with my own experience. One reviewer said, "This book helps get you going," which perfectly encapsulates the essence of Mayhew’s approach. Another mentioned that the projects not only sparkle with creativity but also help a beginner find their footing in watercolors. They weren’t just painting; they were learning to love the process—and I felt this same sense of joy as I painted my first flower, watching it transform from a mere sketch to a colorful bloom.
Conclusion
Watercolor the Easy Way is truly a gem for anyone curious about watercolor painting. Whether you are a complete novice or someone looking to sharpen your skills with delightful projects, this book has something to offer. For those who often feel intimidated by art, Mayhew’s guidance can be a soothing balm, allowing you to unlock your inner artist while having fun.
Personally, this book has reignited my creativity and reminded me that art doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful. So if you’ve ever hesitated to explore watercolor painting, I wholeheartedly recommend picking up this lovely book. Let it be your guide to joyfully painting your world in color!
