plate no. 9951
Segawa Kiku-no-jo Okiwa
Utagawa Toyokuni II, 1825
study guide
est. 12 hrsapproach — 7 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the figure and background.
- step 02
Outline the main elements with a fine brush or pen.
- step 03
Apply a base layer of color to the background and figure.
- step 04
Add details to the kimono patterns and facial features.
- step 05
Define the shadows and highlights to create depth.
- step 06
Paint the plum blossoms and branches in the background.
- step 07
Refine the outlines and add any final details.
color palette
primary · green · red · black · white
secondary · purple · yellow · pink
Achieve the muted green by mixing green with a touch of brown or gray. Create the pink background by diluting red with white.
techniques
- ·flat washes
- ·line work
- ·patterning
- ·color layering
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early.
- →Using colors that are too bright and saturated.
- →Not paying attention to the proportions of the figure.
- →Failing to create a sense of depth.
materials
surface · watercolor paper 140lb
required
- ·Watercolor paints or gouache
- ·Fine-tipped brushes
- ·Round brushes
- ·Watercolor paper
- ·Palette
- ·Water container
- ·Pencil
- ·Eraser
optional
- ·ruler
- ·masking fluid
- ·color pencils
Use high-quality watercolor paper to prevent buckling. Consider using a light box to trace the initial sketch.
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