My Step-by-Step Guide to Use Salt in Watercolor

by

Adding texture to watercolor art can be so fun—just use salt! The mix of watercolor and salt creates soft, fluffy effects that really pop.

It’s super easy and a joy to experiment with. Stick around for simple step-by-step tips!

How Salt Creates Textures in Watercolor

Salt works like magic on wet paint. It changes how the pigment moves, creating unexpected and beautiful textures.

Absorbing water and pigment

Paint stays wet on paper longer, which helps with texture. I sprinkle salt on top of the paint while it’s still damp.

The salt pulls water and pigment away from that spot, forming lighter areas.

Pushing it away to create fluffy, crystal-like textures

Salt pushes water and pigment away as it absorbs moisture. This action leaves behind fluffy, crystal-like textures on the paper.

I love how unique patterns form naturally during this process, almost like snowflakes or tiny crystals growing in watercolor painting!

Experimentation with Different Types of Salt

Try using different salts to see how they change your painting. Each type gives unique effects and textures!

Fine granulated table salt

Fine granulated table salt adds subtle textures to watercolor paintings. I sprinkled it on wet paint with varying consistencies—thick, medium wash, and watery mixtures.

The fine salt absorbed pigment in small patches, creating soft patterns. It worked best on mid-wet surfaces for delicate effects.

Thick coarse kosher salt

Thick coarse kosher salt creates bold, unique textures in watercolor. Its large granules soak up water and pigment differently than fine salt.

I noticed it pushes the paint more dramatically, leaving striking crystal-like effects.

Comparison of Salt Effects on Watercolor Paint

Different salt types create unique effects on paint. Try varying pigment and water ratios for surprising textures!

High pigment concentration

I used a thick mix of watercolor paint with high pigment density. Adding salt early caused crisp, bold textures.

Waiting longer softened the effect but kept the intense color. Timing mattered as much as the pigment concentration for creating patterns.

Medium wash

Salt on a medium wash showed clear crystal-like effects. I mixed equal parts water and pigment, then sprinkled both fine table salt and coarse kosher salt.

The table salt left soft, smaller patterns. The coarse kosher salt created larger, bolder textures.

Both types pushed the pigment in unique ways without overpowering the balance of color.

Low pigment, high water mixture

Diluted watercolor paint spreads quickly across the paper. Mixing low pigment with high water makes colors light and soft.

I noticed salt absorption in watercolor changes more here. The salt pulls water strongly, leaving light patches and airy textures behind.

Using this mixture felt ideal for subtle, dreamy effects in my painting experiments.

Varying amounts of salt

I tested varying amounts of salt on a medium pigment wash. A small pinch gave soft, subtle textures.

Adding more created bold, crystal-like patterns that spread further across the paper.

Each amount changed how pigments behaved and added unique effects to the watercolor painting.

Careful Removal of Salt and Observations

Gently brush off the salt once the paint is dry, being careful not to scratch. Notice how unique patterns emerge on your painting!

Use of nail tool if necessary

I scrape away stuck salt with a nail tool, being very gentle to avoid streaking. This helps keep the paint smooth while protecting the surface below.

Emphasis on paint consistency

Paint consistency controls texture and flow. A thicker mix with high pigment concentration creates bold, rich coverage.

A watery blend softens colors and spreads easily for smooth finishes.

Application of Technique to Watercolor Projects

You can use this salt technique to make stunning effects in your art, like snowy trees or soft dandelions. It adds a magical touch that feels unique and fun!

Keep reading to try it yourself.

Snowy forest landscape

I created a snowy forest landscape with a bluish-purple wash. I sprinkled both fine table salt and coarse kosher salt to add texture, mimicking snow on the trees.

Misty tree silhouettes filled the background, while darker, sharper trees stood in the foreground for depth.

Dandelion blown by the wind

A green mid-tone wash formed the base. I placed coarse and fine salts strategically to mimic dandelion fluff.

Salt textures created the look of seeds blowing in the wind, adding movement.

Line work enhanced details, making the effect more realistic.

Spontaneous Snowy

Final Thoughts

Salt with watercolor is so fun and easy. The textures it creates feel magical. Try this in your next painting, and see what you can create!

SUPPLIES AND LINK

Terms and Conditions - Privacy Policy