Are you looking for a creative and unique watercolor project? In this tutorial, we’ll explore the double exposure watercolor technique, which combines two images into one to create a stunning and expressive painting. This technique may look complex, but don’t worry—I’ll guide you through every step to make it easy and enjoyable!


Supplies You’ll Need

To get started, you’ll need the following watercolor supplies:

  • Watercolor paper – I used Leonardo 280 lb cold-pressed watercolor paper (100% cotton by Hahnemühle) because it holds a lot of water and provides an even texture.
  • Artist tape or washi tape – To create a clean white frame around your painting.
  • A printed silhouette template – If you don’t want to draw freehand, find a royalty-free image, print it in the same size as your paper, and cut it out.
  • Watercolor pencils or a regular pencil – To trace the outline of your template.
  • Watercolor paints – A warm red, warm yellow, cool blue, and warm yellow to mix custom colors.
  • Flat brush and round brushes – I used a flat Castaneo brush by Da Vinci for smooth washes and round brushes for details.
  • Tissues or paper towels – For lifting unwanted paint.
  • Optional: Colored pencils or watercolor pencils – For adding details and shadows.

Step 1: Preparing Your Paper and Template
  1. Tape down your watercolor paper using artist tape or washi tape to create a clean white border.
  2. If your watercolor pad is glued around the edges, leave the paper in place to prevent buckling.
  3. Place your printed silhouette template on the watercolor paper and trace the outline lightly with a pencil or watercolor pencil.
  4. Lightly erase the lines so they remain visible but won’t show through your paint.


Step 2: Painting the Background
  1. Mix a soft peachy background color by blending a warm red and a warm yellow with lots of water to create a pastel tone.
  2. Pre-mix a large amount of the background color in a small bowl to ensure consistency.
  3. Using a flat brush, apply the background wash quickly and evenly in one go, working in sections to avoid streaks or unwanted textures.
  4. Let the background dry completely before moving to the next step.


Step 3: Creating the Double Exposure Effect

The key to the double exposure technique is treating the inside of the silhouette as your main painting area.

  1. Sketch your design inside the silhouette – I chose to paint leaves, flowers, and oranges to create a spring/summer theme.
  2. If you’re unsure, practice on a separate piece of paper before transferring your design.
  3. Lightly erase any visible pencil lines before painting.


Step 4: Layering with the Negative Painting Technique

In this step, we build depth by painting around objects instead of filling them in.

  1. Mix a warm green color using a warm yellow and a cool blue. Adjust the balance for a natural green tone.
  2. Start by painting the lightest layer first, applying a wash inside the silhouette.
  3. For the negative painting technique, paint around leaves and objects to create depth.
  4. Gradually layer darker shades by mixing more pigment into your green paint.
  5. Leave thin white outlines or highlights on the edges of leaves and flower petals to create contrast.
  6. Blend darker green under overlapping leaves to add shadow and depth.

💡 Tip: If you accidentally paint over a white area, lift the color with a tissue while it’s still wet!



Step 5: Adding Details & Enhancing Depth
  1. Refining Shadows & Highlights:
    • Mix a darker green (by adding a touch of blue) and apply it under overlapping leaves.
    • Add subtle shading around the edges of the silhouette to enhance the double exposure effect.
  2. Painting the Oranges:
    • Use the same peachy mix from the background for the base layer.
    • Darken the shade with more red and yellow for depth.
    • Blend green and blue into the shadows for a realistic effect.
  3. Detailing with Watercolor Pencils:
    • Use a black or green watercolor pencil to define edges.
    • Add fine hair-like strokes to the silhouette.
    • Use a white pencil for extra highlights on leaves and fruit.


Final Touches & Removing the Tape
  1. If your tape is stubborn, use a hair dryer to gently heat the adhesive before peeling it off.
  2. Take a step back and assess your painting—you can add final details with colored pencils or extra paint layers.
  3. Most importantly, don’t get discouraged! Paintings go through awkward stages, but pushing through will lead to amazing results.


Final Thoughts: Keep Experimenting!

The double exposure watercolor technique is a fantastic way to combine different elements into one beautiful artwork. Remember, this tutorial is just a starting point—feel free to experiment with different colors, objects, and silhouettes to make it your own!


Unleash Your Creativity: Resources to Get You Started

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Ready to start painting? Here are some resources to help you get started:

  • If you’re unsure where to start, I’ve created a free guide to help you kick off your watercolor journey. It’s packed with tips and resources to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Download here!
  • Grab a copy of my book, “No-Fail Watercolor.” This comprehensive guide is packed with tips, techniques, and inspiring projects to jumpstart your watercolor journey. Click here to learn more!
  • Join my watercolor membership TEAL! If you'd like to develop your watercolor skills, increase confidence in your art, and transform your creative outlet into a regular source of joy and peace while surrounded by a supportive community of watercolor artists, sign up to the priority list here!



Happy painting!