Wet-on-Wet vs Wet-on-Dry: Watercolor Techniques

Understand the difference between wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry watercolor techniques, and how each can add magic to your painting.

Watercolor is a dance between water and pigment. Two of its core techniques—wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry—offer vastly different moods.

1. What is Wet-on-Wet?

You apply water to the paper first, then add pigment. The color spreads and blends, creating soft, dreamy edges.

2. What is Wet-on-Dry?

You paint directly onto dry paper. This gives you sharper lines and more control.

3. When to Use Each

Wet-on-wet is perfect for skies, soft florals, or atmospheric backgrounds. Wet-on-dry can work well for details and layering.

4. Try Them Together

Paint a wet background and let it dry. Then add crisp lines or shapes on top. You get the best of both worlds!

Practice this in 10 Watercolor Exercises for Beginners