Hand Render Watercolour & Gouache

About this course

Participants develop jewellery illustration techniques through guided, step-by-step painting exercises. The workshop explores how watercolour properties can depict different gemstones, including wet-on-wet effects, granulation and salt-created texture, before moving on to gouache techniques for rendering precious metal surfaces, particularly rings. The exercises culminate in a complete hand-rendered jewellery design combining the techniques covered. Teaching focuses on understanding the characteristics of watercolour and gouache and applying them accurately to communicate jewellery designs.

What you'll learn

• Apply watercolour techniques to render different gemstone effects
• Use wet-on-wet methods for stones such as amber
• Use granulating watercolours to depict fluorite and labradorite
• Create surface texture with the salt technique for selected gemstones
• Render fine metal surfaces in gouache, with a focus on rings

Is this course right for you?

The workshop is intended for learners at all levels, including those with no previous experience. Prior hand-rendering experience or attendance on the provider’s introductory hand-rendering class may be helpful, but is not required.

• Suitable for learners starting jewellery rendering
• Includes an intensive programme of guided painting exercises
• Participants complete an individual jewellery design

Before you go

• Participants should bring Winsor & Newton Designer Gouache in Permanent White, Permanent Yellow Deep, Burnt Sienna and Jet Black.
• A selection of pointed round, round and/or mop watercolour brushes is requested, ranging from approximately 0.5 mm to 1.5 cm hair length.
• Bring a notebook and pencil.
• Wear casual clothing that can get messy, avoiding long loose sleeves. Flat, closed shoes are requested, and long hair should be tied back.
• Most of the workshop is at street level in a step-free showroom. Some specialist equipment is in a lower-level workshop accessible only by stairs. Learners with access requirements should contact the provider before booking to discuss suitability and possible adjustments.