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So you’ve decided to splurge and buy some really awesome, quality watercolor paints. You love them, but you don’t want to spend more money to get ALL the colors?

Have no fear! In this blog post, I will show you the best way to get the most out of your watercolor paint sets.

Since making handmade watercolor paints is sort of my jam, I will be showing you our Dots & Dust watercolor set, Elementary, My Dear, as an example throughout this post. Of course, if you have different watercolor paints at home, you can still use the suggestions that I am about to share with you.

so are you ready for the easiest ways to make your watercolor paints go further?

Step 1: Create a color chart

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A color chart (like the one displayed above) is a visual representation of all the colors that are possible within a particular set when you mix them together. So for example, by looking at this chart you can see all of the colors achieved just by mixing the paints from the Elementary, My Dear watercolor set together. Instead of only 5 colors, you can actually create 15 different ones! So you can see that you are getting way more bang for your buck and can make your paints that you purchase go really far!

Another reason why I feel a color chart is so important to keep around is that I love to use it when I am planning out my watercolor pieces. When I have these charts handy, I can quickly see what colors I want to use in a painting and know just what two colors need to be mixed together in order to create that color. It saves me tons of time and paint since I don’t have to waste any as I try to mix colors to try to recreate a specific hue.

If you’d like to see a video where I describe this process further and watch me mix the Dots & Dust Elementary, My Dear & Sugar Rush watercolor sets together, click right here.

Step 2: Use an old plate as a paint palette

Now if you already have a fancy watercolor palette lying around, then go ahead and use that. But don’t think that you need to spend TONS of money to get one. You really only need an old ceramic, white plate that is probably already in your house.

Why white? Because if you had a black plate you wouldn’t be able to see what color you are creating when you mix two paints together.

And why is a palette so important? Because as you mix different colors, you can leave them on the plate and use them for future watercolor projects. The paints will dry up with time, but no need to worry. Just reactivate them with a wet paint brush and get back to painting. This is the best way to make sure you don’t waste any of those glorious colors you previously created.

Oh yeah. I almost forgot. They also look REALLY pretty just sitting around and are eye candy for anyone who visits my office or studio. Visit your local Goodwill and pick up some different sized plates and display them on your wall. They are little pieces of art unto themselves!

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Step 3: Always store your paints properly

Protect your investment and take the time to read the recommended storing instructions that come with your watercolor paints. If you cannot find any instructions from the maker or manufacturer, here are some basic guidelines to follow:

For watercolor paints in tubes, make sure to tightly screw the cap back on when you are finished.
For watercolor paints that are in pans (like our Dots & Dust watercolors), be sure to close your storage tin tightly. You want to make sure you do not leave them exposed too long as dirt, hair, or dust can settle on the top of your paints and compromise the quality.
Whether you purchased your paints in tubes or pans, it is highly recommended to store both types in a cool, dark place that is away from the hands of small children.

And that’s it, ladies & gents! Simple ways to make your watercolor stash last longer and to have more fun with your colors!

Tell me! Did you find these tips helpful? Did I miss any? Comment down below!