How to "block in" your painting for transparent watercolor

Blocking in your painting is the proper method for a successful watercolor. Try this procedure and you'll be more satisfied with your finished painting.

1. Work large to small
2. Paint from background to foreground - keep repeating as painting progresses
3. Work from light to dark
4. Work colors more intense first to less intense or grayed down colors. The secret to a good painting is in the tone-down colors when finishing a painting.

REMEMBER ATMOSPHERIC PERSPECTIVE
- Lights are lighter near you and get darker as they recede to the horizon. 
- Darks are darker nearer to you and get lighter as they recede to the horizon.
- This will give you depth in your painting.

NOTE:
Value manipulation for your focal point is always adjusted to your composition. Never work in one area or spot too long, moving around the painting so it comes to a completion which is strong not spotty.