Watercolor 101 – Pocket Guide

by Volta
Watercolor Basics Guide

Quickly learn the basics of brushwork, color mixing, and how to create gorgeous watercolor images while on the go!

Designed for artists who are starting out on their watercolor journey or those who just need a quick refresher on the basics, this handy and ultra-portable reference guide helps you create beautiful artwork whether in your studio or out and about

What You’ll Learn Inside Watercolor 101 Pocket Guide

  • Choose the right material including brushes, paper, palettes, and additional tools
  • Learn basic watercolor techniques like wet-on-wet or wet-on-dry, layer, glazing, and textured effects
  • Quickly reference the best way to color mix with a color wheel
  • Master brushstroke techniques including for fine lines and details
  • Apply simple perspective and composition rules
  • Troubleshoot mistakes and learn how to avoid muddy colors and other common issues

Noted watercolor instructor Volta Volshin-Smith demystifies watercolor painting and distills her years of knowledge into this handy guide for all aspiring or expert artists.

What Others Are Saying – Testimonials & Reviews:

If you’ve ever been intimidated by watercolor fear no more. This “snack sized” guide is so beginner friendly and easily portable that you have to get it. From the basics to more advanced techniques, Volta showcases the beauty of learning. Now I’m able to take a little art with me on my travels.

– SQ (on Amazon)


This book is fantastic! It is beautiful, organized, concise, and easy-to-use with quick accessibility due to the tab layout. I traveled with it to Rome and Paris, and it was incredibly portable, hardly taking up any space or weight in my bum bag. It’s also very durable; in Paris, I was stuck in the pouring rain, without an umbrella, and my bag and pocket guide got drenched, but due to the construction of the book’s materials and finish, there was absolutely no water damage. Highly recommend!

– Thuy (on Amazon)


I’ve spent part of December getting back into crafting and this watercolor pocket guide is such a nice companion. There are so many techniques explained and great ideas packed into such a tiny book! It’s a great value and with my travel watercolor set, a breeze to bring on my recent trip. Buy it, you will not regret it!

– Amanda M. (Amazon)


While I don’t do watercolors and am not very artsy per se (I joke I can barely draw stick figures, haha), when I received my copy of Watercolor 101 I was mesmerized and impressed by the amount of content packed into a little pocket guide! It’s a GORGEOUS, thoughtful how-to with the basics of getting started in this realm. Essential tools, techniques, and even tips for building sustainable habits are a few topics that are covered.

This guide is convenient to have on the go, along with a travel pack of those tools to use when we have those moments where we want to decompress through a creative outlet. I highly recommend this little gem, as its colorful images will bring a smile to your face, and its reassuring tone lets you know you’re in the right place to get started!

– Gehan “G”

About Volta

Volta Voloshin-Smith helps corporate teams and private groups feel calm and connected through creative and meditative workshops. Her signature workshop and online course, Watercolor Meditation, combine breathing techniques with simple brush marks to reduce stress and prevent burnout. 

Originally from Moldova, Volta adds vibrancy to food through illustrations and brings brands to life with live painting and memorable animations. Her clients include Home Depot, Meta, Michaels, and others. 

Author of Watercolor Snacks (2021), Watercolor 101 (2024) and the host of the Calm and Creative podcast, she frequently makes TV appearances to discuss the benefits of art for mental health. 

Volta also specializes in making events memorable through bespoke watercolor live painting of guests and objects.

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