Understanding Granulation in Watercolors: A Guide for Artists

Posted by Marc Jackman on

Understanding Granulation in Watercolors: A Guide for Artists

What is Granulation in Watercolors?

Granulation in watercolours refers to the textured, speckled effect that occurs when pigments settle into the valleys of the paper rather than spreading evenly. This effect adds depth, dimension, and a natural organic look to paintings, making it especially useful for landscapes, skies, and textured surfaces.

Unlike smooth, even washes, granulating colours create visual texture due to the pigment particles clumping together as the water evaporates. This natural separation gives the artwork a unique, unpredictable quality that many artists seek to enhance in their paintings.

Why Does Granulation Occur?

Several factors influence granulation, including pigment type, paper texture, water flow, and additives. Understanding these elements allows artists to control and maximize granulation effects in their work.

1. Pigment Type and Particle Size

Granulation depends heavily on the physical properties of the pigment itself. Larger, heavier pigment particles tend to settle into the paper’s texture rather than disperse evenly.

  • Granulating Pigments: Earth pigments (like Burnt Sienna and Raw Umber) and mineral-based colours (like Cobalt Blue, Ultramarine, and Chromium Oxide Green) are known for their strong granulating effects.

 

  • Non-Granulating Pigments: Synthetic organic pigments (like Phthalo Blue, Quinacridone Red, and Hansa Yellow) have finer, more uniform particles that result in smoother washes.

2. Paper Texture and Absorbency

The paper’s surface plays a crucial role in how granulation appears.

  • Rough or Cold-Pressed Paper: These surfaces have more texture, allowing pigments to settle into the grooves and enhance the granulation effect.
  • Hot-Pressed Paper: The smoother surface reduces granulation since there are fewer depressions for the pigment to settle into.

3. Water and Flow Dynamics

Water is essential in determining how pigments move and settle.

  • More Water: Encourages pigment movement, which can enhance the separation of granulating particles.
  • Less Water: Causes pigment to settle quickly, intensifying the granulated effect.

4. Use of Granulation Medium

Granulation medium is a special additive that increases pigment separation, enhancing the texture. Adding this to non-granulating colours can create a simulated granulation effect.

How to Enhance Granulation in Your Paintings

If you love the granulating effect and want to amplify it, here are some practical techniques:

  1. Use Heavily Granulating Pigments – Choose colours like Ultramarine, Cobalt Blue, Burnt Umber, and Viridian.
  2. Work on Rough or Cold-Pressed Paper – The more textured the surface, the stronger the granulation.
  3. Apply More Water – Allow pigments to flow freely and settle into the texture of the paper.
  4. Mix Granulating and Non-Granulating Colors – This can create interesting effects where some areas are smooth, and others are textured.
  5. Use a Granulation Medium – This is especially helpful for enhancing the effect with smoother pigments.

Best Uses for Granulating Watercolors

Granulation is a powerful artistic tool that adds depth and realism. Here are some creative ways to use it:

  • Landscapes – Create realistic textures in rocks, mountains, and tree bark.
  • Skies and Water – Add soft, natural variations in cloud formations and ocean waves.
  • Abstract Textures – Experiment with granulation to produce unique and unpredictable patterns.

Final Thoughts

Granulation is one of the most fascinating and dynamic characteristics of watercolour painting. Whether you’re using it deliberately or allowing it to happen naturally, it brings an organic and expressive quality to your work.

Do you love granulation in your paintings? Share your experiences and favourite granulating pigments in the comments!


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