At a desk or kitchen table, either stand or sit upright in whichever position is the most comfortable and, if possible, facing natural light without cast shadows. Gain composure in surroundings undisturbed by noise and family distractions. The board with either cartridge or watercolour papers attached, perfectly dry and taut, should be sloped toward, as shown. The back edge of the board should be supported by a couple of thick books to allow an adjustable tilt. Take a position directly in front of the board. All materials including scrap paper for testing should be neatly placed to the right if you are right-handed. Remain at ease whilst painting, occasionally leaning forward if the need arises. Never crouch or huddle close to the paper and you will neither experience cramp nor become prone to unnecessary backache.

At the initial stage, show restraint and resist the urge to paint pictures otherwise progress will be hindered through lack of first-hand knowledge of watercolour behaviour.

Trying to do too much too quickly has failed more paintings than anything else. More tears of frustration have been shed over watercolour than any other medium but it need not be so. There are lessons to be learned here. A little liquid paint spilled or finger-squeezed from brush hairs a little above textured paper on a board laid flat, not actually touching it, accidentally is able to create beautiful, natural-appearing, atmospheric effects. Some of these abandoned random effects may well appear to be perfect for interpreting skies above low horizons. Although these so called 'happy accidents' are in the long run not helpful, they should be left untouched, as if they were planned.

WARNING. It is essential to learn a few basic exercises, they should not be passed over lightly. Without study and grounding, self-taught artists are slowed down by not having a reserve of fundamentals or mental references and experience to draw upon.