LINE AND WASH KINGFISHER - Loosing FOUNTAIN PEN Sketching and Colour

A LINE AND WASH KINGFISHER – Loose Sketching and Colour | Step-by-Step Bird Art Tutorial

Welcome to this relaxed and creative bird art tutorial where I take you through the entire process of drawing and painting a beautiful kingfisher – from initial pencil sketch to final watercolour and ink highlights. This piece was inspired by a local sighting and made for my little one, and I wanted to capture the bird’s vibrant personality and striking colour.

In this video, we’ll explore loose sketching techniques, how to use flex-nib fountain pens for expressive line work, and how to build up layers of watercolour for depth and texture. It’s all about experimenting, taking risks, and having fun with the process — even if it gets a bit chaotic with paint splashes and unexpected dots!

Whether you're a beginner looking to loosen up your style or a more experienced artist curious about materials like Posca pens, flex nibs, and pigment layering, you’ll find loads of useful tips here.

Grab your pencils, pens, and paints — and let’s get started on this colourful kingfisher!
🕒 CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 – Intro & Story Behind the Drawing
Why I chose to draw a kingfisher and how it connects to my family and local park life.

00:27 – Initial Sketching in Pencil
How I planned the pose and ensured the proportions were right for the final piece.

01:05 – Inking with Flex Nib Fountain Pen
Using a modified Opus 88 pen to create expressive, dynamic lines with variable pressure.

02:17 – Line Work Decisions & Final Details
Adding weight to the lines, defining feathers and perch, and making the piece feel "ready for colour."

03:52 – Adding Abstract Textural Elements
Using the back of a brush and dots for chaotic textures and creative background marks.

05:21 – Color Swatching & Paint Choices
Testing out oranges, blues, and greens before painting – using cobalt, turquoise, chromium & more.

06:14 – Painting the Kingfisher – Layer by Layer
Loose brushwork, pigment control, and building form and light into the bird.

08:06 – Adding Detail with Dry Brush & Contrast
Using dry brush techniques and darker pigments to bring depth and feathers to life.

09:42 – Final Touches – Highlights & Eye Details
Posca pens and gel pens for highlights; adding the eye for character and life.

11:33 – Wrap-Up & Thoughts
Reflection on the process, showing the finished piece, and future project ideas like bird cards!
🎨 MATERIALS USED:

Opus 88 Fountain Pen (modified)

Cobalt Blue, Turquoise, Orange, Chromium Oxide Watercolours

Posca White Acrylic Pen

White Gel Pen

Watercolour Paper

🐦 Want to paint birds with personality? Try this one out!
Let me know in the comments if you give it a go — or share your own bird sketches on social media and tag me!

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Thanks for watching, and see you next time!

#KingfisherDrawing #BirdArt #LooseSketching


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