Watercolor in 3 Steps

Learn instructor Jess Lindell’s unique “333” approach to watercolor while painting a simple fish portrait together. The Paint 333 system breaks watercolor down into an accessible and playful process that builds confidence and creativity.

You’ll explore:

• 3 properties of water control for paper, paint, and brushes

• 3 principles of color, contrast, and composition

• 3 steps of painting: working with water, dropping in color, and finishing with texture

Along the way, you’ll also learn five essential techniques—glazing, dropping in water, scraping, pattern printing, and splatter—while creating a vibrant and expressive fish painting. By the end of the workshop, you’ll walk away with new skills, creative confidence, and the tools to continue exploring watercolor on your own.

Instructor will provide the following:

Each student will receive a printed workbook and a painting kit that includes: 5 sheets of 11×14 140lb Fabriano Studio Cold Press Paper, one 16-well Royal & Langnickel watercolor palette filled with 4 Daniel Smith colors (Neutral Tint, Azo Yellow, Opera Pink, and Cobalt Teal), plastic fork for scraping, kneaded eraser, #2 pencil, a Uniball Deluxe Ink Pen, and a reusable paper towel. Instructor will also provide: tracing paper, artist tape, water cups, and brushes for use in class.

Students are asked to bring:

Optional: bring your own watercolor brushes or favorite watercolor supplies if you have them.

Since your class runs over the lunch hour, you may want to consider bringing a lunch or snack. Click HERE to learn about local eating opportunities before or after your class.

Skill Level 

No experience required.

Age Requirement 

Students ages 18 and older are welcome to attend this class.

Location Details 

Marine Mills Folk School

550 Pine St.

Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047

Cost Details

Tuition: $60

Materials Fee: $30

Total Cost: $90

NOTE: Be aware we may cancel class if a minimum number of registrations is not reached. We work to balance teachers’ need to plan for a class with students’ busy schedules — not an easy task. Please register as early as possible! If interested, you can find our cancellation policy HERE.