How to Paint a Watercolor Cactus
Practice soft green washes, shaded edges and fine marks on a simple cactus.
What You Need
- Watercolor paints: A light green and a stronger green mix for shaded edges.
- Watercolor paper and a brush with a fine tip.
- A palette or mixing tray, clean water, a water container and a cloth or paper towel.
- Optional: a pencil for a light outline.
Use the supplies you already have. If you are starting from scratch, the kit below brings paints, paper and brushes together.
Step 1: Dampen the cactus shapes
Use a clean brush to wet the areas you want to paint green. Aim for an even sheen rather than standing water.
If you are working on blank watercolor paper, lightly sketch the cactus shapes first. Use the reference as a guide; a printed tutorial page is not required.
Step 2: Lay in the green wash
Touch a light green wash into the damp shapes and let it spread. Leave some areas paler to suggest light on the pads.
Work on one shape at a time. If color runs beyond the edge, reduce the water on your brush for the next shape.
Step 3: Add shaded edges
Add a slightly stronger green along selected edges. Follow the curve of each pad and soften some marks into the lighter wash.
Keep the pale areas visible. Allow the wash to dry before the final fine details.
Step 4: Add the spines
Use the tip of a small brush to add short, darker marks to the dry cactus pads. Vary their direction to follow each shape.
Leave space between marks so the soft wash remains the main feature.
Watch the Tutorial
Follow the demonstration, then pause between steps to paint at your own pace.
A Small Tip Before You Paint Again
Add the spines after the green wash has dried. On wet paper, the small marks will spread into the base color.
For help with soft edges and blending, read our wet-on-wet watercolor guide.
Make Room for Your Next Painting
Keep a page and a few colors close by. If you need paints, paper and brushes for your next study, take a look at the STUDIO Beginner Kit.
See the Kit and What’s Included
