Pink Sapphire Designs

Every painting has an awkward stage. The one where you wonder if it’s going to come together at all. I’ll admit, this one had me questioning everything for a minute! 🙀

But layer by layer, the ch*****ne finally started to sparkle.✨

Now she needs a name, and I’d love your help! Her label says, “Celebrate You,” and that’s exactly what she’s all about. 🥂

Comment your name ideas below.👇🏻 I’ll share the story behind this painting tomorrow, along with a few of my favorite suggestions.

*****neart

The ch*****ne bottle is starting to come together! Here I'm building up the color in two thin layers with a round brush, letting each one add a little more depth.

Since so many of you were curious about using acrylic like watercolor, here's how I do it:

🎨 The ratio: For the details, I use roughly 1 part water to 3 parts paint. (I'll confess, I eyeball it, so this is more of a feeling than a formula.) For the background, I added a layer of water to the paper first and then I thinned the paint much further, closer to half water, half paint, for those soft, washy transitions.

💧 Adding the water: I use whatever's handy: a spray bottle, an eyedropper, or simply dipping my brush in clean water and mixing it into the paint again and again until it's thinned the way I like.

📝 Test first: Thinned acrylic can dry a little differently than it looks on your palette. If you want a specific color, test it on a scrap of paper before it touches your watercolor paper.

🖌️ Layer, don't rush the color: Two thin layers give you richer, more vibrant color than one heavy one. Just remember to work quickly while each layer is wet so the blend stays soft.

Save this for your next painting session, and tell me in the comments: have you ever tried thinning acrylics like this? 👇

Missed Part 1? It's in my feed. Part 3 is coming soon!

*****neart

When a friend requests hummingbirds, you pause the tropical florals and pick up the brush! 🖌️🎨

I’m on attempt #3 with these wings because I couldn’t quite get the movement right… but I think we’re getting close.
Be honest—can I call it done, or should I keep refining? Let me know in the comments! 👇✨

Mini #21 of 100: Yellow & Salmon Hibiscus 🌺🖌️✨
Category 3 of my Tropical Paradise collection is here!

I’ve always loved hibiscus—they’re big, bold, and so rewarding to grow here in the South.

Painting these sunny petals brought me so much joy. I hope this little canvas brings a bright spot of sunshine to your day, wherever you’re tuning in from! ☀️

Drop a 🌺 or ☀️ in the comments if you love cheerful florals! 👇