Watercolour Painting for Beginners
Learn to paint with watercolours in this structured Sydney short course designed for absolute beginners and those with some experience who want to refine their skills. You will be guided step by step through essential techniques including brush control, washes, layering, colour mixing and composition.
Each week includes practical exercises to introduce and reinforce key watercolour skills. As the course progresses, you will apply your learning to create three complete paintings, developing both technique and artistic expression in a supportive small-group environment.
Your tutor will support all levels of experience, providing clear guidance for beginners and encouraging returning or more experienced students to expand their skills. Students are welcome to re-enrol to continue building confidence and refining their personal painting style.
Course Content
- Watercolour materials, equipment, pigment application and brush techniques.
- Colour mixing, atmospheric perspective and the relationship between water, paper and pigment.
- Composition, still life and botanical subjects, light and dark, and creating the illusion of three dimensions.
Schedule & Pricing
- 15 Jun 2026 to 6 Jul 2026, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, active, $449.
- 3 Aug 2026 to 6 Aug 2026, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, cancelled, $449.
- 23 Nov 2026 to 14 Dec 2026, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, inactive, $469.
Materials
- Option 1: Purchase a full materials kit at enrolment checkout, supplied at your first class where available.
- Option 2: Bring your own materials using the current kit list provided by the college.
- Materials kits can take up to a week to arrive, so late enrolments may receive their kit at the second session.
Details
You will learn
- Use key watercolour brush techniques, washes, glazing and sketching methods.
- Understand tonal value, colour mixing and how to manipulate tone in a painting.
- Apply composition principles to create balanced still life and botanical watercolour works.
You will get
- Step-by-step tutor guidance in a supportive small-group setting.
- Structured exercises that build confidence and reinforce essential watercolour skills.
- The opportunity to complete three paintings and receive personalised feedback.
Appropriate for
This course is designed for all levels. Beginners are welcome, and some drawing experience will be an advantage.
Preparation
What to bring
- Purchase the full materials kit at enrolment or bring your own materials from the current kit list.
- Closed-in shoes are required for class.
- Wear old clothes and/or bring an apron; long hair must be tied back.
What to wear
Closed-in shoes required; wear old clothes and/or an apron; tie back long hair.
Your Teacher
Sydney Community College
38 reviewsSydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors.
The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.
We do this by:
- Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
- Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
- Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
- Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
- Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.
Cancellations & Refunds
If the organiser cancels the class:
You are entitled to a full refund.
If you can't attend the class:
You’re welcome to send someone in your place.
OR
- A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.
Terms & Conditions
At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.
At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.
That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably. Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:
Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College.
Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued. If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.
Have more questions about this class?
Tags:
Watercolour Painting for Beginners
Coming Soon: More classes in the works!
Join the waitlist
Be the first to know when this class has new dates! Add your email to the waitlist.
Your Next Adventure Starts Here
Join thousands of learners exploring new skills and passions. Whether online or in person, our classes are designed to inspire, connect, and bring joy to learning. Start your journey today!
Explore classes