🌈 Get Started with Basic Watercolor Supplies

Coloring Rainbows
Jan 18
2 min read

Updated: May 21

Making ART!! Having FUN!!

Coloring Rainbows header (neuorographic rainbow colored circles)

🌈 Getting Started with Watercolor: Simple Supplies for Beginners

Beginning a watercolor practice does not require a large collection of expensive materials. In fact, one of the most beautiful aspects of watercolor is its simplicity. With just a few basic supplies, you can begin exploring color, flow, and creative expression in a calm and approachable way.

At Coloring Rainbows, watercolor is shared as a mindful and intuitive creative practice, so the focus is not on having perfect tools—it is on creating a welcoming space to begin.

The first essential supply is watercolor paint. Beginner watercolor sets often include a small selection of colors that are more than enough to start experimenting and learning. A simple palette with basic primary colors can already create a wide range of beautiful mixes and tones.

Next is watercolor paper. Unlike regular paper, watercolor paper is designed to absorb water without falling apart or warping too heavily. Cold press watercolor paper is often recommended for beginners because it balances texture and control while working well for many different styles.

Brushes are another important tool, but you do not need many to begin. A medium round brush is often one of the most versatile choices because it can create both fine lines and broader strokes. Over time, you may explore additional brush shapes and sizes, but one or two basic brushes are enough to start practicing comfortably.

You will also need clean water and a container for rinsing brushes. Some artists like using two containers—one for rinsing and one for clean water—but a single cup or jar works perfectly well when beginning.

A palette or mixing surface is helpful for blending colors. Many watercolor sets include built-in mixing areas, but a simple ceramic plate or reusable plastic palette can work just as well.

Paper towels or a cloth are also useful for absorbing extra water, softening brushstrokes, or lifting color from the page when needed.

At Coloring Rainbows, the emphasis is always on keeping the creative process approachable and pressure-free. There is no need to purchase everything at once or invest in professional materials immediately. Simple supplies are enough to begin exploring watercolor in a meaningful way.

Over time, as your comfort and curiosity grow, your materials may naturally evolve with your practice. But the heart of watercolor does not come from the supplies themselves—it comes from your willingness to explore, experiment, and create.

Starting simply can actually make the experience feel more freeing. Fewer materials often mean fewer distractions and more space to focus on flow, color, and presence.

You do not need the perfect setup to begin creating.

You only need a few simple tools and the openness to start.