Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
In this watercolor tutorial, I’m painting a loose seaside town inspired by the beautiful coastal villages of Portugal. We’ll focus on soft washes, expressive brushwork, layered texture, and capturing that bright ocean-side atmosphere without overworking the details.
This is a great exercise in letting go of perfection and learning how to suggest buildings, shadows, and movement with confidence and simplicity. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced watercolor artist, this project is all about painting with freedom and enjoying the process. ☀️🌊
🎨 Want a list of my favorite painting supplies? Check it here: amzn.to/3IQZ3sP
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures and real talk on creativity, watercolor tips and big life moves.
🧳 Follow me on Instagram for some updates on our move-abroad life: [@jennarainey]
_______________________________________
🎨 Unlock Your Inner Artist!
• Take Watercolor to the Next Level with the Everyday Watercolor Companion Course: jennarainey.com/everyday-watercolor-companion-course
• Master the Fundamentals with The Art Within – your go-to course for sketching, watercolor basics, and discovering your artistic style: jennarainey.com/the-art-within
• Join My Inner Circle on Patreon for exclusive tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and more: jennarainey.com/patreon
• Grab Your FREE Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor E-Book and start painting today: jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
🖌️ Dive into Watercolor Tutorials!
• Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor: youtu.be/tDdfPMTX15Y
• Quick Practice Tips to Improve Fast: youtu.be/kqxb6GgzhvM
• How to Paint Anything with Watercolor: youtu.be/9e2wy7ktKA0
• Paint and Water Ratio - Tea to Butter Exercise: youtu.be/MG7WfJ4vsoY?si=QXprsYj0pXEc7_mM
• Easiest Way to Paint TEN Flowers With Watercolor: youtu.be/NcRLrNVrfMM?si=gwQFJo1-M-YSgwvN
✏️Supplies I Swear By
Brushes:
Princeton Heritage 4050 Round
• Size 2: amzn.to/2IWtSvu
• Size 6: amzn.to/2VpcA0y
• Size 16: amzn.to/2XFfNXe
Paints:
• Maimeri Blu Watercolor (the exact colors I use available/linked in my Amazon shop: jennarainey.com/amazon or my Blick shop: jennarainey.com/blick )
• Paper & Accessories:
• St Cuthberts Saunders Waterford Coldpress Watercolor Paper: amazon.com/dp/B01601FCP0?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzjennarai-20&creativeASIN=B01601FCP0&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.U81HES0ZJGW3&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
• Watercolor Palette: amzn.to/3lFMuBa
• Blackwing Matte Pencils: amzn.to/3vFruyN
• Pantone Formula Guide: amzn.to/2VWHc9Y
• Scanner Epson V600: amzn.to/2Z8ozzS
🌟 Who Doesn’t Love Freebies?
• FREE 40-page Watercolor E-book: jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
• FREE Masterclass – Digitize Your Artwork: jennarainey.com/digitize-your-artwork
💌 Stay Inspired and Connected
• Exclusive Content and Art Critiques on Patreon: jennarainey.com/patreon
• Instagram: instagram.com/jennarainey
• Pinterest: jennarainey.com/pinterest
• Website: jennarainey.com
🛒 Shop My Favorite Art Supplies and Gear
• Amazon Storefront: jennarainey.com/amazon
• Blick (different availability, pricing, shipping options): jennarainey.com/blick
📚 Don’t Miss My Best-Selling Watercolor Books:
• Everyday Watercolor: amzn.to/2XJkWNU
• Everyday Watercolor Flowers: amzn.to/2ZyIN4P
• Everyday Watercolor Sketchbook: amzn.to/3OJWPZH
✨ Want to Stay in the Loop?
• Sign Up for Updates: jennarainey.com/jr-insider
📢 Disclosure
Some links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep the content flowing—thank you!
MUSIC: paid for and licenses acquired from Artlist.
In this watercolor tutorial, I’m painting a loose seaside town inspired by the beautiful coastal villages of Portugal. We’ll focus on soft washes, expressive brushwork, layered texture, and capturing that bright ocean-side atmosphere without overworking the details.
This is a great exercise in letting go of perfection and learning how to suggest buildings, shadows, and movement with confidence and simplicity. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced watercolor artist, this project is all about painting with freedom and enjoying the process. ☀️🌊
🎨 Want a list of my favorite painting supplies? Check it here: amzn.to/3IQZ3sP
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures and real talk on creativity, watercolor tips and big life moves.
🧳 Follow me on Instagram for some updates on our move-abroad life: [@jennarainey]
_______________________________________
🎨 Unlock Your Inner Artist!
• Take Watercolor to the Next Level with the Everyday Watercolor Companion Course: jennarainey.com/everyday-watercolor-companion-course
• Master the Fundamentals with The Art Within – your go-to course for sketching, watercolor basics, and discovering your artistic style: jennarainey.com/the-art-within
• Join My Inner Circle on Patreon for exclusive tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and more: jennarainey.com/patreon
• Grab Your FREE Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor E-Book and start painting today: jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
🖌️ Dive into Watercolor Tutorials!
• Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor: youtu.be/tDdfPMTX15Y
• Quick Practice Tips to Improve Fast: youtu.be/kqxb6GgzhvM
• How to Paint Anything with Watercolor: youtu.be/9e2wy7ktKA0
• Paint and Water Ratio - Tea to Butter Exercise: youtu.be/MG7WfJ4vsoY?si=QXprsYj0pXEc7_mM
• Easiest Way to Paint TEN Flowers With Watercolor: youtu.be/NcRLrNVrfMM?si=gwQFJo1-M-YSgwvN
✏️Supplies I Swear By
Brushes:
Princeton Heritage 4050 Round
• Size 2: amzn.to/2IWtSvu
• Size 6: amzn.to/2VpcA0y
• Size 16: amzn.to/2XFfNXe
Paints:
• Maimeri Blu Watercolor (the exact colors I use available/linked in my Amazon shop: jennarainey.com/amazon or my Blick shop: jennarainey.com/blick )
• Paper & Accessories:
• St Cuthberts Saunders Waterford Coldpress Watercolor Paper: amazon.com/dp/B01601FCP0?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzjennarai-20&creativeASIN=B01601FCP0&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.U81HES0ZJGW3&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
• Watercolor Palette: amzn.to/3lFMuBa
• Blackwing Matte Pencils: amzn.to/3vFruyN
• Pantone Formula Guide: amzn.to/2VWHc9Y
• Scanner Epson V600: amzn.to/2Z8ozzS
🌟 Who Doesn’t Love Freebies?
• FREE 40-page Watercolor E-book: jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
• FREE Masterclass – Digitize Your Artwork: jennarainey.com/digitize-your-artwork
💌 Stay Inspired and Connected
• Exclusive Content and Art Critiques on Patreon: jennarainey.com/patreon
• Instagram: instagram.com/jennarainey
• Pinterest: jennarainey.com/pinterest
• Website: jennarainey.com
🛒 Shop My Favorite Art Supplies and Gear
• Amazon Storefront: jennarainey.com/amazon
• Blick (different availability, pricing, shipping options): jennarainey.com/blick
📚 Don’t Miss My Best-Selling Watercolor Books:
• Everyday Watercolor: amzn.to/2XJkWNU
• Everyday Watercolor Flowers: amzn.to/2ZyIN4P
• Everyday Watercolor Sketchbook: amzn.to/3OJWPZH
✨ Want to Stay in the Loop?
• Sign Up for Updates: jennarainey.com/jr-insider
📢 Disclosure
Some links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep the content flowing—thank you!
MUSIC: paid for and licenses acquired from Artlist.
![Are Professional Colored Pencils Worth It? Full Comparison
What’s the real difference between student-grade and professional-grade colored pencils? In this video, I’m comparing them side-by-side so you can actually see how they layer and perform on paper.
If you’ve ever wondered whether artist-grade pencils are worth the investment, or if beginner pencils are enough to get started, this tutorial will help you understand the strengths (and limitations) of both. No gatekeeping, just an honest comparison from a professional artist. ✏️
🎨 Want a list of my favorite painting supplies? Check it here: https://amzn.to/3IQZ3sP
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures and real talk on creativity, watercolor tips and big life moves.
🧳 Follow me on Instagram for some updates on our move-abroad life: [@jennarainey]
🎨 Unlock Your Inner Artist!
• Take Watercolor to the Next Level with the Everyday Watercolor Companion Course: https://jennarainey.com/everyday-watercolor-companion-course
• Master the Fundamentals with The Art Within – your go-to course for sketching, watercolor basics, and discovering your artistic style: https://jennarainey.com/the-art-within
• Join My Inner Circle on Patreon for exclusive tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and more: https://jennarainey.com/patreon
• Grab Your FREE Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor E-Book and start painting today: https://jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
🖌️ Dive into Watercolor Tutorials!
• Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor: https://youtu.be/tDdfPMTX15Y
• Quick Practice Tips to Improve Fast: https://youtu.be/kqxb6GgzhvM
• How to Paint Anything with Watercolor: https://youtu.be/9e2wy7ktKA0
• Paint and Water Ratio - Tea to Butter Exercise: https://youtu.be/MG7WfJ4vsoY?si=QXprsYj0pXEc7_mM
• Easiest Way to Paint TEN Flowers With Watercolor: https://youtu.be/NcRLrNVrfMM?si=gwQFJo1-M-YSgwvN
✏️Supplies I Swear By
Brushes:
Princeton Heritage 4050 Round
• Size 2: https://amzn.to/2IWtSvu
• Size 6: https://amzn.to/2VpcA0y
• Size 16: https://amzn.to/2XFfNXe
Paints:
• Maimeri Blu Watercolor (the exact colors I use available/linked in my Amazon shop: https://jennarainey.com/amazon or my Blick shop: http://jennarainey.com/blick )
• Paper & Accessories:
• St Cuthberts Saunders Waterford Coldpress Watercolor Paper: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01601FCP0?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzjennarai-20&creativeASIN=B01601FCP0&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.U81HES0ZJGW3&ref aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
• Watercolor Palette: https://amzn.to/3lFMuBa
• Blackwing Matte Pencils: https://amzn.to/3vFruyN
• Pantone Formula Guide: https://amzn.to/2VWHc9Y
• Scanner Epson V600: https://amzn.to/2Z8ozzS
🌟 Who Doesn’t Love Freebies?
• FREE 40-page Watercolor E-book: https://jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
• FREE Masterclass – Digitize Your Artwork: https://jennarainey.com/digitize-your-artwork
💌 Stay Inspired and Connected
• Exclusive Content and Art Critiques on Patreon: https://jennarainey.com/patreon
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennarainey/
• Pinterest: https://jennarainey.com/pinterest
• Website: https://jennarainey.com
🛒 Shop My Favorite Art Supplies and Gear
• Amazon Storefront: https://jennarainey.com/amazon
• Blick (different availability, pricing, shipping options): http://jennarainey.com/blick
📚 Don’t Miss My Best-Selling Watercolor Books:
• Everyday Watercolor: https://amzn.to/2XJkWNU
• Everyday Watercolor Flowers: https://amzn.to/2ZyIN4P
• Everyday Watercolor Sketchbook: https://amzn.to/3OJWPZH
✨ Want to Stay in the Loop?
• Sign Up for Updates: https://jennarainey.com/jr-insider
📢 Disclosure
Some links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep the content flowing—thank you!
MUSIC: paid for and licenses acquired from Artlist. Are Professional Colored Pencils Worth It? Full Comparison](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Xm4_4x4Sm4w/mqdefault.jpg)
![Watercolor beach scene sketch: Portugal landscape
In this video, I’m painting a breezy little beach scene in my sketchbook—complete with bright umbrellas, turquoise water, and loose, gestural ink lines. This is one of those relaxed, no-pressure tutorials where the goal is to have fun, stay playful, and capture the feel of a sunny day by the ocean.
This is a scene from our new neighborhood in Portugal, so I had to throw in the red and green umbrella! This is perfect for beginners, sketchbook lovers, or anyone dreaming of a beach day (even from your studio!).
Grab your paints and let’s escape to the coast together 🌊
🎨 Want a list of my favorite painting supplies? Check it here: https://amzn.to/3IQZ3sP
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures and real talk on creativity, watercolor tips and big life moves.
🔗 Check out my new Substack where Im sharing more in-depth content on creativity, our life abroad and more!: https://substack.com/@jennarainey
🧳 Follow me on Instagram for some updates on our move-abroad life: [@jennarainey] Watercolor beach scene sketch: Portugal landscape](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YFXprRJfvsc/mqdefault.jpg)



![Easy Mother’s Day Card Ideas 🌸 Simple & Beautiful Illustrations Anyone Can Paint
Looking for meaningful, quirky and creative Mother’s Day card ideas? In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through simple illustration concepts you can use to create a heartfelt, handmade card.
We’ll explore:
• Adding more personality to your illustrations
• Simple layouts that feel intentional and polished
• Ways to personalize your card for mom
• Easy techniques that work for all skill levels
Whether you’re using watercolor, pen, or oil pastels, these ideas will help you create something beautiful and meaningful without overthinking it.
Perfect for beginners and anyone wanting to make something special by hand 💛
🎨 Want a list of my favorite painting supplies? Check it here: https://amzn.to/3IQZ3sP
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures and real talk on creativity, watercolor tips and big life moves.
🧳 Follow me on Instagram for some updates on our move-abroad life: [@jennarainey]
🎨 Unlock Your Inner Artist!
• Take Watercolor to the Next Level with the Everyday Watercolor Companion Course: https://jennarainey.com/everyday-watercolor-companion-course
• Master the Fundamentals with The Art Within – your go-to course for sketching, watercolor basics, and discovering your artistic style: https://jennarainey.com/the-art-within
• Join My Inner Circle on Patreon for exclusive tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and more: https://jennarainey.com/patreon
• Grab Your FREE Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor E-Book and start painting today: https://jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
🖌️ Dive into Watercolor Tutorials!
• Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor: https://youtu.be/tDdfPMTX15Y
• Quick Practice Tips to Improve Fast: https://youtu.be/kqxb6GgzhvM
• How to Paint Anything with Watercolor: https://youtu.be/9e2wy7ktKA0
• Paint and Water Ratio - Tea to Butter Exercise: https://youtu.be/MG7WfJ4vsoY?si=QXprsYj0pXEc7_mM
• Easiest Way to Paint TEN Flowers With Watercolor: https://youtu.be/NcRLrNVrfMM?si=gwQFJo1-M-YSgwvN
✏️Supplies I Swear By
Brushes:
Princeton Heritage 4050 Round
• Size 2: https://amzn.to/2IWtSvu
• Size 6: https://amzn.to/2VpcA0y
• Size 16: https://amzn.to/2XFfNXe
Paints:
• Maimeri Blu Watercolor (the exact colors I use available/linked in my Amazon shop: https://jennarainey.com/amazon or my Blick shop: http://jennarainey.com/blick )
• Paper & Accessories:
• St Cuthberts Saunders Waterford Coldpress Watercolor Paper: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01601FCP0?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzjennarai-20&creativeASIN=B01601FCP0&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.U81HES0ZJGW3&ref aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
• Watercolor Palette: https://amzn.to/3lFMuBa
• Blackwing Matte Pencils: https://amzn.to/3vFruyN
• Pantone Formula Guide: https://amzn.to/2VWHc9Y
• Scanner Epson V600: https://amzn.to/2Z8ozzS
🌟 Who Doesn’t Love Freebies?
• FREE 40-page Watercolor E-book: https://jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
• FREE Masterclass – Digitize Your Artwork: https://jennarainey.com/digitize-your-artwork
💌 Stay Inspired and Connected
• Exclusive Content and Art Critiques on Patreon: https://jennarainey.com/patreon
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennarainey/
• Pinterest: https://jennarainey.com/pinterest
• Website: https://jennarainey.com
🛒 Shop My Favorite Art Supplies and Gear
• Amazon Storefront: https://jennarainey.com/amazon
• Blick (different availability, pricing, shipping options): http://jennarainey.com/blick
📚 Don’t Miss My Best-Selling Watercolor Books:
• Everyday Watercolor: https://amzn.to/2XJkWNU
• Everyday Watercolor Flowers: https://amzn.to/2ZyIN4P
• Everyday Watercolor Sketchbook: https://amzn.to/3OJWPZH
✨ Want to Stay in the Loop?
• Sign Up for Updates: https://jennarainey.com/jr-insider
📢 Disclosure
Some links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep the content flowing—thank you!
MUSIC: paid for and licenses acquired from Artlist. Easy Mother’s Day Card Ideas 🌸 Simple & Beautiful Illustrations Anyone Can Paint](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YxSkZ756eVM/mqdefault.jpg)
![Easy Watercolor Christmas Tree Tutorial (Beginner Friendly!)
Get cozy and paint with me! In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to create a loose, festive watercolor Christmas tree step-by-step using simple brushstrokes and easy layering techniques. Whether you’re brand new to watercolor or just want a relaxing holiday project, this quick tutorial is perfect for making handmade cards, décor, or just getting into the Christmas spirit.
Grab your brushes, your favorite green palette, and let’s paint something merry together! 🎄✨
🎨 Want a list of my favorite painting supplies? Check it here: https://amzn.to/3IQZ3sP
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more adventures and real talk on creativity, watercolor tips and big life moves.
🔗 Check out my new Substack where Im sharing more in-depth content on creativity, our life abroad and more!: https://substack.com/@jennarainey
🧳 Follow me on Instagram for some updates on our move-abroad life: [@jennarainey]
🎨 Unlock Your Inner Artist!
Explore courses, guides, and resources to elevate your art journey:
• Take Watercolor to the Next Level with the Everyday Watercolor Companion Course: https://jennarainey.com/everyday-watercolor-companion-course
• Master the Fundamentals with The Art Within – your go-to course for sketching, watercolor basics, and discovering your artistic style: https://jennarainey.com/the-art-within
• Join My Inner Circle on Patreon for exclusive tutorials, behind-the-scenes content, and more: https://jennarainey.com/patreon
• Grab Your FREE Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor E-Book and start painting today: https://jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
🖌️ Dive into Watercolor Tutorials!
• Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Watercolor: https://youtu.be/tDdfPMTX15Y
• Quick Practice Tips to Improve Fast: https://youtu.be/kqxb6GgzhvM
• How to Paint Anything with Watercolor: https://youtu.be/9e2wy7ktKA0
• Paint and Water Ratio - Tea to Butter Exercise: https://youtu.be/MG7WfJ4vsoY?si=QXprsYj0pXEc7_mM
• Easiest Way to Paint TEN Flowers With Watercolor: https://youtu.be/NcRLrNVrfMM?si=gwQFJo1-M-YSgwvN
✏️Supplies I Swear By
Brushes:
Princeton Heritage 4050 Round
• Size 2: https://amzn.to/2IWtSvu
• Size 6: https://amzn.to/2VpcA0y
• Size 16: https://amzn.to/2XFfNXe
Paints:
• Maimeri Blu Watercolor (the exact colors I use available/linked in my Amazon shop: https://jennarainey.com/amazon or my Blick shop: http://jennarainey.com/blick )
• Paper & Accessories:
• St Cuthberts Saunders Waterford Coldpress Watercolor Paper: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01601FCP0?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzjennarai-20&creativeASIN=B01601FCP0&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.U81HES0ZJGW3&ref aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
• Watercolor Palette: https://amzn.to/3lFMuBa
• Blackwing Matte Pencils: https://amzn.to/3vFruyN
• Pantone Formula Guide: https://amzn.to/2VWHc9Y
• Scanner Epson V600: https://amzn.to/2Z8ozzS
🌟 Who Doesn’t Love Freebies?
• FREE 40-page Watercolor E-book: https://jennarainey.com/cbgtw-ebook
• FREE Masterclass – Digitize Your Artwork: https://jennarainey.com/digitize-your-artwork
💌 Stay Inspired and Connected
• Exclusive Content and Art Critiques on Patreon: https://jennarainey.com/patreon
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennarainey/
• Pinterest: https://jennarainey.com/pinterest
• Website: https://jennarainey.com
🛒 Shop My Favorite Art Supplies and Gear
• Amazon Storefront: https://jennarainey.com/amazon
• Blick (different availability, pricing, shipping options): http://jennarainey.com/blick
📚 Don’t Miss My Best-Selling Watercolor Books:
• Everyday Watercolor: https://amzn.to/2XJkWNU
• Everyday Watercolor Flowers: https://amzn.to/2ZyIN4P
• Everyday Watercolor Sketchbook: https://amzn.to/3OJWPZH
✨ Want to Stay in the Loop?
• Sign Up for Updates: https://jennarainey.com/jr-insider
📢 Disclosure
Some links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep the content flowing—thank you!
MUSIC: paid for and licenses acquired from Artlist. Easy Watercolor Christmas Tree Tutorial (Beginner Friendly!)](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ZH3Jz0Cwgn8/mqdefault.jpg)



