Gouache and Watercolour: What's the difference?
Gouache and watercolor paints are both popular water-soluble painting mediums, and their binder is typically gum arabic. For this reason, they might seem very similar at first. However, there are fundamental differences between them that significantly affect the painting technique and the appearance of the final result. The biggest and most significant difference is their opacity. In short, gouache is opaque and watercolor is transparent.
Gouache vs. Watercolor: Which One is Right for You?
When starting a painting hobby or exploring a new technique, many people consider the differences between gouache and watercolor paints. Both are water-soluble and easy to use, but their fundamental differences significantly impact both the painting process and the final result. In this blog post, we'll delve into the differences between these two popular types of paint, so you can choose the option that best suits your style and projects.
The Biggest Difference: Opacity vs. Transparency The simplest way to distinguish between gouache and watercolor is to remember this: gouache is opaque, and watercolor is transparent. This single characteristic defines most of their other differences.
- Gouache (Opaque Paint): Because gouache is opaque, you can paint in layers and even paint with light colors over dark ones. In this respect, it more closely resembles acrylic or oil paints. The result is uniform, matte, and graphic.
- Watercolor: Watercolor paint is transparent. This means that the white surface of the paper shines through the layers of paint and acts as the light in the artwork. In watercolor painting, you always work from light to dark, and the layering creates depth and a sense of light.
Comparison: Gouache vs. Watercolor The table below summarizes the key differences between the paints:
Characteristic | Gouache Paint | Watercolor Paint |
|---|---|---|
Opacity | Opaque. The paint covers the layers beneath it and the surface of the paper. | Transparent. The white of the paper and the underlying layers of paint show through. |
Finish | Dries to a flat, matte, and velvety finish. | Dries variably, often with a satin-like or luminous finish. The paper's texture affects the result. |
Painting Technique | Allows for painting light colors over dark ones. The working method is similar to acrylic or oil paints. | You work from light to dark. The white of the paper serves as the lightest shade. |
Use of White Paint | White paint is used to lighten other colors and to paint bright details (highlights). | White paint is not traditionally used. Light areas are created by leaving the paper exposed or by using plenty of water. |
Composition | Contains more and coarser pigment. To increase opacity, white pigment (e.g., chalk) is often added. | Contains finer pigment and more binder in proportion to the pigment. |
Reactivation | Dried paint can be reactivated with water. This can be challenging for layering, as a new layer can dissolve the one underneath. | Dried paint can also be reactivated with water, allowing for blending and reworking of colors on the paper. |
Purpose | Popular for illustrations, posters, and works where flat, uniform color fields and clear details are desired. | Often used to create airy and luminous works where layering, transparency, and the movement of water are important elements. |
In Conclusion: Which One is Your Choice? Choose gouache when you:
- Want to paint opaque, flat, and bright color surfaces.
- Want to paint with light colors over dark ones.
- Are aiming for a matte and graphic result.
- Are painting on colored paper and want the colors to stand out clearly.
Choose watercolor when you:
- Want to create airy, luminous, and layered works.
- Enjoy the way colors mix and blend on the paper.
- Want to use the white of the paper as the light in your work.
- Are aiming for a delicate and transparent effect.
The best way to find your favorite is to try both! You can also combine these two techniques to create something entirely new. For example, you can add details with opaque gouache to a watercolor painting. By experimenting, you'll best discover which paint suits your style and goals. In the Itäinenkatu selection, you can conveniently find both gouache paints and watercolor paints.