Diagnostic Guide: Common Watercolor Mistakes & How to Fix Them PDF
Product Overview: Paintings looking a little wonky? Learn why and how to fix them in this guide!
Watercolor can feel confusing until you understand why things go wrong. This visual diagnostic guide gives you exactly that clarity. Inside this 11 page workbook, you’ll learn how to quickly identify what’s causing blooms, backruns, hard edges, streaky washes, patchiness, and muddy color, along with clear steps for how to fix each issue.
With real visual examples, simple explanations, and easy adjustments you can apply right away, this guide helps you troubleshoot your paintings with confidence instead of guesswork. It’s the perfect companion for beginners and a reassuring reference for experienced painters who want more control, consistency, and ease.
Who is this guide for?
This is ideal for anyone who feels frustrated when watercolor doesn’t behave the way they expect. Beginners will finally understand the “why” behind common issues. Intermediate artists will sharpen their technique and gain more control. And anyone who wants smoother washes, cleaner blends, and fewer surprises will love having a visual reference they can return to anytime.
What’s Included
- 11 pages of clear visual examples showing what common watercolor mistakes look like
- Side-by-side comparisons explaining why each issue happens
- Practical adjustments for water control, timing, and brush pressure
- Tips for preventing blooms, backruns, patchiness, and harsh edges
- Troubleshooting tools for improving blends, washes, and layering
- A reliable reference guide you can revisit whenever something feels “off”
How it works
Once you purchase, your digital PDF will be delivered straight to your inbox. You can download, save, and print it as many times as you'd like for personal use. No physical product will be shipped.
Questions?
Feel free to reach out to support@alexkincaidart.com and we'll be happy to help! Keep scrolling for some important information on how your class is delivered, your next steps, and some frequently asked questions.
Diagnostic Guide: Common Watercolor Mistakes & How to Fix Them PDF
Helpful Information Before You Begin
Every class and guide is designed to support you at different stages of your watercolor journey.
Beginner-friendly classes offer step-by-step guidance and traceables, while more advanced lessons help you refine techniques, mix colors with confidence, and explore creative decision-making.
We’ve carefully written each product description to explain what’s included, so be sure to read through those to find the class that fits your skill level and goals. If you’re unsure where to start, we recommend choosing a project that feels fun and approachable, and you’re always welcome to contact us for help choosing the right fit by writing to support@alexkincaidart.com.
Your journey with watercolor is off to a great start. Once you place your order, you’ll receive a confirmation email followed by separate emails for each class or guide you purchased.
If you bought a downloadable guide, it will be included right in your email. If you purchased an online class or tutorial, you’ll receive login details so you can access the classroom. All video lessons and printable materials are available immediately, and you can work through everything at your own pace.
If you ever have questions, our team is here to help at support@alexkincaidart.com
These classes are designed to be accessible and flexible, so you’re welcome to use supplies you already have.
For best results, we recommend using 100 percent cotton, high-quality watercolor paper as it’s the most important supply when watercolor painting. You’ll also need a couple round watercolor brushes and a selection of paints you enjoy using.
If you’re looking for specific recommendations, you can find Alex’s favorite supplies at alexkincaidart.com/supplies. Many students choose to watch the lesson first, then upgrade supplies once they understand how watercolor materials behave.
Great question! The Garden Studio is Alex’s botanical watercolor membership. While some standalone classes or guides may also appear inside the membership library, purchasing an individual class here gives you lifetime access to that specific product, regardless of your membership status.
If you’d like to keep painting with Alex and explore a growing library of more than 250 hours of lessons, be sure to check out The Garden Studio here to see if it’s a good fit for you.
All of our classes and guides are digital products, so nothing is shipped. Your content is delivered by email immediately after purchase, and you can access everything at your own pace.
Because of the nature of digital content, purchases are non-refundable. All videos, workbooks, and traceables are for personal use only and may not be shared, copied, or used commercially.
By purchasing this product, you agree to our full Terms and Conditions which you can read here.