3 Approaches for Mermaid Painting: Gouache, Watercolor, Painting Kit

Mermaids, with their enchanting allure and mystic beauty, have captivated the human imagination for centuries. They are a popular subject in art, often depicted in various styles and mediums. If you’re a beginner looking to explore the world of mermaid painting, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating your very own mermaid masterpiece. Whether you prefer a simple gouache approach, the delicate beauty of watercolors, or purchasing a painting kit, we’ve got you covered.

Part 1: Simple Gouache Mermaid Painting

Gouache is a versatile and forgiving medium, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Let’s explore how to create a very simple gouache mermaid painting:

1. Gather Your Supplies:To begin, you’ll need:
   • Gouache paints (blue, green, white, and skin tones)
   • Paintbrushes (various sizes)
   • Water and a palette for mixing colors
   • Watercolor paper or a canvas board
   • Pencil and eraser
   • Paper towels or a rag
2. Create a Background:
   • Start by applying a light blue wash to your paper or canvas to represent the sea.
   • Use large, impressionistic strokes to give your background an abstract, watery feel.
   • Allow it to dry completely.
3. Sketch the Mermaids:
   • Lightly sketch the mermaids on your dry background. Keep the poses simple and flowing.
   • Focus on the basic shape of the mermaids, including their tails and hair.
4. Paint the Mermaids:
   • Mix skin tones using white and a touch of pink or peach gouache. Apply this to the mermaids’ bodies.
   • Use blues and greens for their tails, and don’t be afraid to blend colors for a more natural look.
   • Add abstract details to their tails, like scales or patterns, with larger brush strokes.
   • Create their flowing hair with graceful, flowing strokes.
5. Final Touches:
   • Once your mermaids are painted, add some white highlights to make them pop.
   • You can also add small seashells or other abstract elements to the sea.
   • Let everything dry thoroughly.
6. Frame Your Art:
   • If you’d like, frame your mermaid painting to protect and display your creation proudly.

Simple Ideas for Gouache Mermaid Painting

Part 2: Watercolor Abstraction in Depicting a Mermaid Painting

Watercolors offer a delicate and ethereal quality to your artwork. Here’s how to create an abstract mermaid painting using watercolors:

1. Gather Your Supplies:
   • Watercolor paints (various shades of blue, green, and skin tones)
   • Watercolor brushes (soft and round)
   • Watercolor paper (preferably heavy-weight)
   • Water and a palette
   • Pencil and eraser
   • Paper towels or a blotting cloth
2. Start with a Light Sketch:
   • Lightly sketch the basic outline of your mermaid on the watercolor paper.
   • Keep the lines loose and flowing to create a sense of movement.
3. Paint the Background:
   • Wet the paper within the mermaid’s silhouette with clean water.
   • Then, apply different shades of blue and green in a loose and abstract manner, allowing them to blend and flow together.
   • Experiment with wet-on-wet techniques to create a watery effect.
4. Add the Mermaid:
   • Once the background is dry, start painting the mermaid.
   • Use soft, flowing brushstrokes to depict the mermaid’s tail and body.
   • Don’t worry about fine details; let the colors and shapes suggest the form.
5. Details and Highlights:
   • Add skin tones to the mermaid’s body, and use darker blues and greens for the tail.
   • Enhance the tail with abstract patterns or scales.
   • Use white paint sparingly to create highlights and shimmer on the mermaid’s body.
6. Final Touches:
   • Allow your painting to dry completely.
   • If you’d like, you can add some abstract sea creatures or seashells to enhance the underwater atmosphere.
   • Sign your work and consider framing it to protect your delicate watercolor creation.

Ideas for Watercolor Mermaid Painting

Part 3: Buying a Painting Kit for Mermaid Painting

If you’re not confident in your artistic abilities or simply want a convenient way to start, purchasing a mermaid painting kit is an excellent option. These kits typically come with all the necessary materials and step-by-step instructions to help you create a stunning mermaid painting. Here’s how to go about it:

Choose the Right Kit

• • Start by researching and selecting a mermaid painting kit that aligns with your artistic preferences.
  • Kits can vary in terms of complexity, style, and included materials, so choose one that suits your skill level and interests.

We’ve picked up some mermaid painting kits for you on Amazon:

1. The simplest level, acrylic paints:

2-Pack Easy Paint by Numbers Kits for Kids, DIY Oil Painting for Children Seniors Beginners

2-Pack Easy Mermaid Painting by Numbers Kits for Kids

• DIY Oil Painting for Children Seniors Beginners
• Premium acrylic paints

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2. The medium level, oil paints:

TUMOVO Paint by Numbers for Adults Mermaid Paint 

TUMOVO Paint by Numbers for Adults Mermaid Paint

• Painting by Numbers for Adults Beginner
• Premium oil paints

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2. The medium level, Diamond paints:

Mermaid Girl Diamond Painting Kits

Mermaid Girl Diamond Painting Kits

• High definition printing pattern
• Dream Underwater DIY diamond painting

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1. Unbox Your Kit:
   • Once you have your kit, open it up and familiarize yourself with the contents.
   • Most kits include paints, brushes, a pre-printed canvas or paper, and instructions.
2. Follow the Instructions:
   • Read the instructions carefully and follow the step-by-step guidance provided in the kit.
   • Typically, you’ll start with a pre-drawn outline of the mermaid, making it easier for beginners to get started.
3. Paint with Confidence:
   • Don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize your painting within the framework provided.
   • Kits often come with suggested color palettes, but you can always add your unique touches.
4. Finishing Touches:
   • Once you’ve completed your kit, let your painting dry thoroughly.
   • If desired, you can add extra details or highlights to make it your own.
5. Display Your Art:
   • Frame your finished mermaid painting to showcase your accomplishment.
   • Hang it on your wall or gift it to a friend or family member who appreciates your artistic effort.

Conclusion

Creating a mermaid painting can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially for beginners. Whether you choose a simple gouache approach with large, abstract strokes, venture into the delicate world of watercolors, or opt for the convenience of a painting kit, the key is to let your creativity flow.

Remember, there are no strict rules in art. Embrace the freedom to experiment, express yourself, and bring your unique vision of mermaids to life. So, gather your supplies, follow the steps outlined in your chosen method, and dive into the enchanting world of mermaid painting. Who knows what hidden treasures and artistic discoveries you’ll uncover beneath the waves of your imagination?