How to Use Watercolour Pencils on Rocks



Watercolor pencils can be incredibly fun to use when rock painting. However, there are a few key steps to painting rocks successfully. 

Below, you can learn more about the supplies needed, the types of rocks that are best, as well as the step-by-step process of how to use watercolor pencils for a rock painting.

What You Need to Create Painted Rocks

For starters, make sure that you have the following items before you start rock painting:

  • Container for watercolor pencils
  • Paper towel to wipe excess moisture from painted rocks
  • Watercolor pencils
  • Rocks
  • Black pen 
  • Pencil 

Coloring Paint Rocks

When choosing your watercolor pencils, make sure that you use ones that can provide you with a consistent flow of paint. This ensures that the end design will look great and last for longer on your painted rocks.

  • Start by adding a light color to the rock. The idea is to gradually add layers of color as you go. 
  • You can get experimental with how light or dark you choose to make the layers. 
  • After this first layer, you’ll still see some of the rock.
  • You can then choose another color for the second coating. Make sure that the first layer has had some time to dry. 
  • It doesn’t need to be completely dry if you’re looking to blend colors. 
  • You can gradually increase the amount of pressure that you apply with each new layer of color.
  • Once the rock is completely covered, you can use your thumb to gently blend the colors even further. 
  • The paint will wash off your skin easily afterwards. However, you may want to wear gloves for this if you have sensitive skin.
  • You can then leave the base layers to dry completely. 
  • Next, you can use either pencils or a pen to draw a design or write words on the rock.

Best Types of Rocks To Use for Rock Painting

When it comes to choosing a rock, it’s best to find ones that are smooth. This enables the paint from your watercolor pencils to stick to the surface and create a smoother finish. You’ll also have an easier time when drawing designs or writing words on the rock’s surface. 

You may want to experiment with different types of rocks when using watercolor pencils as you can achieve different painted rocks results and textures. 

Also read: How to Permanently Write on Rocks

Conclusion

After reading through our post on how to design rocks with watercolor pencils, we hope that you’re feeling more confident about the process. You can create some wonderful and personal designs that can make for great little gifts and ornaments. 

FAQs

What types of paint are best for rock painting?

Acrylic paint provides the best results. Craft acrylic paint is cheap and provides you with the best consistency for painted rocks.

Can you use sealants on rock paintings?

Yes, absolutely. You can use a spray sealant to protect the design and ensure that it lasts for longer. You can also use sealants that create a glossy, satin, or matte finish after you’ve painted your rocks.


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Written By Adam Rushton

Adam has made a name for himself in the illustration industry and is a passionate blogger and writer on the subject of art, illustration and graphic design.

His artwork has been featured in countless publications and used for very well-known media projects. As a professional illustrator for over 20 years, Adams media outlets, a wealth of knowledge, and experience enable him to consult and advise artists and illustrators in this country (from York and Manchester to Southampton and London) and all over the world.


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