Using Kuretake Art Nouveau Watercolors for a Fun Painting Afternoon

I know it’s been a while since I shared an art project. I know I have a diverse and amazing group of readers who come to this website for inspiration on art, crafts, and my soap-making tutorials and videos. In today’s post, I want to share a fun art project that you can take on for one afternoon or just for a few minutes.

Over the past several weeks, I’ve seen some of the artists whom I follow recommend the Kuretake Japanese brand of watercolors, and of course, I had to try them.

I purchased the Kuretake Art Nouveau watercolor set, and I have been testing it by painting florals and mixed media art pieces.

I really like them and I love the fact that they can be used very translucent, just like regular watercolors, or in a thick consistency, just like gouache. I had to love them, two of my favorite mediums in one, the perfect score!

For a fun painting afternoon, gather your materials and let’s paint some florals.

Materials used:

• Watercolor Paint – I am using the Kuretake Gansai Tambi Art Nouveau Set
• Palette – I am using a small square ceramic plate I purchased at World Market
• Your Favorite Brushes
• Watercolor Paper – I have this Canson XL brand at hand, but your favorite watercolor paper is fine

The goal is not to be perfect, but to explore the colors, experimenting with more water, less water, and the various marks you can create with the different brushes.

Start by defining a simple composition, for example, a large flower in the center and two supporting flowers. This is a great way to start. Vary the colors in each stroke and see what you get.

A few tips to make the best of your watercolor painting session:

Start with warm-up pages — don’t stress over the first few paintings; use them to loosen up, experiment, and get into the flow.

Set up your space before you start — keep brushes, paints, paper towels, and water within easy reach so you can stay in the creative zone.

Have plenty of clean water nearby — use two jars if possible: one for rinsing dirty brushes, one for clean washes, so you’re not constantly changing water.

Play with color mixing — let yourself discover unexpected shades and textures without worrying about “getting it right.”

Try different brush strokes — make bold sweeps, tiny dots, and playful splatters to see what feels inspiring.

Take mini breaks — step back, stretch, and look at your work from a distance; it can spark fresh ideas.

Let go of perfection — the beauty of watercolor often comes from happy accidents and unplanned effects.

Layer slowly — enjoy watching transparent colors blend and overlap as they dry.

Keep a scrap sheet — test colors and techniques there before committing to your main piece.

Put on music or an audiobook — create an atmosphere that helps you relax and stay inspired.

I hope these tips help you have a wonderful painting session.

I hope you have a wonderful watercolor painting session. Stay creative!