Watercolor vs Gouache: Understanding Transparency, Opacity, and Pigment Differences

The Difference Between Watercolor and Gouache Paints

I break down the key differences between Watercolor, Gouache, and Gansai paints, focusing on how pigment size dictates transparency and opacity. You'll learn why smaller particles create delicate, hard-to-lift washes while larger ones offer solid coverage that's easy to correct. I also explain how binders like gum arabic and various additives impact blending, lifting, and the final look of your artwork on different papers.

"Light colors are not opaque enough to cover previous layers, so they must be applied before dark colors and then carefully avoided for the rest of the painting."