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Come with me as I take you through the steps taken to create my little jewel painting, Bee Happy.

Day one.
It was the end of a busy day and I hadn't had a chance to get into the studio - so I made time to at least get a few minutes in. I transferred the image to paper and blocked in some color; now I could sleep!

Day 2.

I decided to paint this in my jewel style, but rather than using a Micron pen for the ink lines, I planned to use watercolor alone. Working around the page, I added color: blending, softening, glazing. I probably should have stopped sooner to allow for more drying time between layers, but I was having too much fun! 

Day 3.

It was time to add the lines. I mixed up some thicker, darker paint and used a tiny rigger which I ordered from Dick Blick: a "Silver Brush Black Velvet Brush - Script, Size 1". It took twice as long to paint the lines compared to drawing with ink, but if I made an error I would be able to lift the line, whereas ink is permanent. 

Day 4 and done.
I added more color, adjusting value and hue where needed. 

I hope you enjoyed my little demo! Spring is in the air - bee happy!

Paint. Love. Repeat.