Last Updated on April 9, 2025 by Dee
There’s just something magical about painting butterflies. 🦋
Their delicate wings, endless color combinations, and whimsical shapes make them one of my favorite subjects to paint when I want to relax and get into a creative flow.
In this easy butterfly watercolor painting tutorial, I’m sharing how to paint a beautiful watercolor butterfly step-by-step —perfect for beginners or anyone looking to unwind with a peaceful painting session. I’ll guide you through outlining the shape, layering watercolor washes, blending colors, and adding those final ink and white gel pen details that really make it pop.
If you’re anything like me and love mixing watercolor with a touch of ink, you’re going to enjoy this one!
Let’s get started…
Download the Free Spring Watercolor Templates at the end of this post!
Table of Contents
Watch the Step-by-Step Easy Butterfly Watercolor Painting Tutorial
This is a wonderful project to relax with, especially if you’re trying to improve your brush control or watercolor layering. You can also watch the full step by step painting tutorial on YouTube here:
🎨 Watch it now
What You’ll Need: Watercolor Butterfly Painting Supplies
This is my go-to list of recommended watercolor painting supplies that we use for all our watercolor art, junk journaling, and art journaling!
**This page may contain affiliate links to products I have used or recommend. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.**
- Board: If you’re using watercolor paper from a pad or sheets, you might want to tape your paper down to a board to prevent warping.
- Watercolors: Windsor & Newton is a reputable brand that offers high-quality watercolor paints. You can choose from their range of professional-grade watercolor tubes or pans, depending on your preference.
- Watercolor Paper: Look for cold-pressed, 140lb (300gsm) watercolor paper for the best results. This type of paper is durable and has a nice texture that’s ideal for watercolor painting.
- Brushes: A selection of round and flat brushes in various sizes will give you the versatility you need for different strokes and details. Sable or synthetic brushes designed for watercolor will give you the best performance.
- Palette: A mixing palette with wells for both mixing and holding your paints is essential. It can be a simple plastic one or a porcelain palette for a more luxurious feel.
- Water Container: Any clean jar or container will do, but having two for clean and dirty water can help keep your colors pure.
- Masking Fluid: This is used to cover areas of your painting that you want to keep white. Make sure to apply it with an old brush or a dedicated masking fluid brush, as it can ruin fine bristles.
- Pencils: A soft pencil, like a 2B, is great for sketching your design before painting.
- Eraser: A kneaded eraser is gentle on watercolor paper and can lift pencil lines without damaging the surface.
Paper Towels or a Rag: These are useful for blotting your brush to control the amount of water and paint.Step-by-Step Instructions
Step By Step Painting Tutorial: Watercolor Butterfly
- Sketch the Butterfly Outline: Lightly sketch the butterfly’s outline on your watercolor paper. Focus on symmetry and proportion.
- Ink the Details: Use fineliner pens to outline and add intricate details to the butterfly, enhancing its features.
- Apply Base Colors: Using a wet-on-wet technique, apply the base colors to the butterfly’s wings. Allow the colors to blend naturally for a soft effect.
- Add Layered Details: Once the base layer is dry, add more defined patterns and colors to the wings, building up the intensity.
- Final Touches: Add any additional details or background elements as desired. Once satisfied, allow the painting to dry completely.
Tips for Success
- Practice Patience: Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before proceeding to avoid unwanted blending.
- Experiment with Colors: Feel free to choose colors that resonate with you, making the artwork uniquely yours.
- Use Quality Materials: Investing in good quality supplies can significantly impact the outcome of your painting.
Get 32 Premium Butterfly Watercolor Templates!
Want to make painting even easier? I’ve created 32 premium butterfly templates that you can use as a guide for your watercolor paintings. These templates help you focus on painting instead of sketching, making the process faster and more fun!
📌 Access the Butterfly Templates + Exclusive Watercolor Resources on my Patreon!
👉 Join Here & Download Instantly
Pin This For Future Creative Inspo!
Download the Free Spring Watercolor Templates HERE (below)!
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Love These Watercolor Templates? Get Even More Exclusive Creative Goodies on My Patreon! 🎨
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