Discover the soothing art of watercolor circle blending—a perfect, stress-relieving exercise for moms to unwind and express themselves creatively.
In the whirlwind of daily life, finding moments of peace can be a challenge, especially for busy moms. That’s where the beauty of watercolor comes in – a simple yet mesmerizing way to relax and recharge.
Let’s explore an exercise combining watercolors’ soothing qualities with the joy of creating: blended watercolor circles.
This exercise is not just a creative outlet; it’s a therapeutic experience.
The process of blending wet-on-wet watercolors is incredibly calming. Watching colors flow and merge on paper can be mesmerizing, offering a gentle distraction from stress.
This activity promotes mindfulness as you focus on the present moment and the behavior of the paint. It’s a form of meditative art that can help lower anxiety, increase calmness, and boost your mood.
Please let me know if you’ve tried this one; I would love to see it.
You can find a small video of this exercise on my Instagram @thecreativecooldown
Supplies used:
Watercolor paper 300 grams (Arches), ecoline (Royal Talens), gelly roll pen (Sakura)(not pictured), brush or dropper, paper towel, and washi tape.
Alternative supply suggestions:
You can use your kids’ watercolor paints or other paint.
Step 1: Creating water circles
Before you start, take a deep breath. Let go of any thoughts that have been troubling you.
With a wet brush, paint a few circles on your watercolor paper. These don’t have to be perfect – think of them as puddles on your page.
Step 2: Adding the first colors
Dip your brush into your first watercolor or use a dropper to place a drop of paint into one of the wet circles. Watch as the color spreads and dances within the water.
Repeat with different colors or the same color in other circles, as you prefer.
Add another color to your circles while the first drops are still wet. Observe the way the colors blend naturally, creating new hues and patterns.
Step 3: Continue to add colors
Keep adding more drops of paint and experimenting with different color combinations. Enjoy the process of watching the colors flow and merge.
If a circle starts to dry, you can re-wet it with your brush for more blending.
Once you’re satisfied with your color blends, let the circles dry naturally or speed up the process with a heat gun or hair dryer.
Step 4: Adding patterns
Decorate your dried circles with patterns using a white gel pen or paint marker. Simple lines, dots, or squiggles can add a delightful touch. Let the unique blends in each circle inspire your patterns.
Next time you need a break from the hustle and bustle, try this blended watercolor circles exercise. It’s a simple yet profoundly relaxing way to connect with your creative side and give your mind the rest it deserves.
Have you tried this exercise? How did it make you feel? Share your experiences or your artwork in the comments below. If you know a mom who could use a relaxing, creative break, don’t forget to share this post with them!
Until next time, take care and keep those creative juices flowing!
If you liked this exercise, you might also like my Hirameki art exercise.