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Painting Plumeria Flowers in Watercolor

Plumeria flowers, also known as frangipani, are known for their vibrant colors, sweet smell and are synonymous with Hawaii! Painting these flowers in watercolor is simpler than it seems and makes for a really pretty greet card. Whether you're just starting or already skilled in watercolor, this easy painting tutorial will walk you through each step to create bright and colorful plumeria paintings.



Gathering Your Materials


Before diving into your artwork, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here is my list of my favorite watercolor supplies. Here’s what you’ll need for this project:


  • Watercolor paints: Ensure you have a palette that includes bright yellows, soft pinks, and red (I like tube watercolors best)

  • Watercolor paper: Choose a thicker paper 140lb (300 gsm) to prevent warping as you add water.


  • Paintbrushes: Use a size 6 round brush (or an 8 if you plan to make large flowers)


  • Container of water: This will help you rinse brushes between color changes.


  • Paper towels or a Swedish dish cloth: Keep them handy for cleaning brushes and blotting excess water.


  • Pencil: For light sketching of your design (plus a kneaded eraser)


  • Reference image: A photo of plumeria flowers (like the one below) will help guide your color choices and shapes.


Set up your workspace comfortably, ensuring you have everything within reach so you can focus fully on your painting.


Sketching Your Flower


Begin by lightly sketching the outline of a plumeria flower on your watercolor paper with a pencil. Focus on the characteristic shape of the petals, which are typically oval and overlap. Most plumeria flowers have five petals. Take your time: creative sketching can lead to a more organic feel in your painting.


Don't worry if the sketch isn't perfect; it's meant to guide you as you paint. If your pencils lines are dark, try using a kneaded eraser to blot the image which will make it lighter.


Laying Down the Base Color


Use the wet-on-wet technique by moistening the petals with clean water. Mix a light shade of yellow and gently apply it to the damp paper at the center of the petal. This technique allows the paint to spread beautifully, mimicking the radiant beauty of plumeria petals.


Incorporate other colors like red, pink, etc to make it really pop. The traditional plumeria is white and yellow but we are making a fun pink version.


Finishing Touches


When you are pleased with the petals, wash your brush and add details. Use a darker color to paint fine lines at the edges of the petals, emphasizing their shape. If your background seems empty, consider painting a few soft green leaves or a light wash in complementary colors around the flower to create balance in your composition.


Let your painting dry completely before cutting or framing. Try cutting out the flower and attaching it to a greeting card! See how I do this in my video.


Show & Share


Painting plumeria flowers with watercolor is super relaxing and a fun project that could be easily turned to a pretty card or decoration. Tag me if you paint it, I'd love to see your creation! @landaruenartshop


Happy painting!


Close-up view of a beautifully painted plumeria flower in soft watercolors.
A photo of a plumeria flower.

 
 
 

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