Painting Flowers and Plants with Gouache: Step-by-Step

Gouache is a versatile paint that is ideal for painting flowers and plants. The matte, opaque properties of gouache allow you to create both detailed and expressive works of art. In this blog, you will learn step-by-step how to paint flowers and plants with gouache, including useful tips and techniques.

Why Gouache?

Gouache combines the best properties of watercolor and acrylic paint. It is water-soluble, dries quickly and offers an intense color strength. This makes it perfect for botanical paintings, where you can use both soft transitions and strong contrasts.

Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials:

• Gouache paint (basic set with primary colors plus white and black)

• Quality paper (minimum 200 g/m², watercolour paper is ideal)

• Brushes (round and flat, varying in thickness)

• Water and a paper towel to clean your brushes and wipe off excess water

• Palette for mixing colors

• Pencil and eraser for sketching. I always use a mechanical pencil because it draws more accurately than a regular pencil.

Step-by-step guide

1. Choose your topic

Find a photo of flowers or plants that you like. Pay attention to the incidence of light, color contrasts and details that you want to emphasize.

2. Make a sketch

Use a pencil to lightly sketch the basic shapes of your flowers and leaves. Keep the lines subtle so they won't show through the paint later.

3. Apply the first coat

Start with a diluted layer of gouache to color in the basic shapes. Apply this color over your entire drawing. Use lighter shades as a base layer, because you can add darker details later.

4. Add layers and details

Let the first coat dry, then work with thicker paint to add details such as veins, shadows, and highlights. Work from general shapes to small details.

5. Play with light and shadow

Use white gouache to add highlights and mix colors to create subtle shadows. This gives your painting depth and realism.

6. Fine Finishing

Look at your painting and add extra details if needed. Think of texture in the leaves, extra color accents or a background to finish it off.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with dilution: Use more water for soft, watercolor-like effects and less water for bold, opaque layers.

• Work from light to dark: Start with light colors and slowly build up to deeper shades.

• Use a dry brush: This helps add texture, such as flower petals or veins.

• Make your work unique: Add your own style elements, such as abstract shapes or a playful background.

Conclusion

Gouache is a wonderful medium to paint flowers and plants. By working layer by layer and paying attention to details, you can create unique botanical works of art. Grab your brush and experiment with colors and techniques to discover your own style!

Want to learn more about gouache painting? Leave a comment or share your creations with me!