Watercolor Animal Portrait Workshop for Adults

Sunday, June 22

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

The Artisan Hatchery 

All Supplies Included

$135 

You love your pet. Now you can learn how to paint them.

You’ve always wanted to paint your pet… but watercolor feels intimidating. Where do you even start? How do you get the eyes right? The fur? What if it turns out looking nothing like them?

You’ve watched videos, bought the paint set, maybe even taken a class

—but your results still don’t look how you imagined. When it comes to painting someone you love, the pressure can take the fun out of it. And most classes don’t give you enough personal help to figure it out.

This workshop is for you

This one-day workshop is for animal lovers who want to create something meaningful—and get real results. I’ll guide you through the entire process step by step. We’ll work from a high-quality photo of your pet, trace it for accuracy, and use artist-grade materials on archival Aqua Board to create a piece worth framing.

You’ll leave with a finished portrait, new watercolor skills, and confidence you can carry into your next project.

What You’ll Learn
  • How to use artist-grade watercolor paints for vibrant, blendable color and richer colors
  • Painting on Ampersand Aqua Board, an archival, ready-to-frame surface
  • Tracing your image to take the pressure off drawing
  • Understanding value and layering color for realism
  • Techniques for eyes, fur, feathers, and fine details that sparkle
  • How to bring your animal to life with finishing touches
What’s Included for $135
  • All materials: watercolor board, paints, brushes, palettes, and tools
  • Light snacks and refreshments
  • A completed 8x10 animal portrait to take home
  • Personal instruction, group demos, and 1-on-1 support throughout the day
Aqua Board
What You’ll Need to Bring:

Honestly? Just bring a good attitude, an open mind, something to  drink and a readiness to learn and have fun — that’s it!

 

After you register, I’ll personally reach out to you and ask for photos of your pet. Once I’ve got those, I’ll make sure your reference image is the perfect size, great quality, and then I’ll create:

  • a black & white copy
  • a posterized version for value mapping
  • and your full-color reference

 

You won’t have to worry about resizing or printing anything. I’ll have it all prepped and ready for you at your table when you walk in.

What Students Are Saying

This class gave me so much confidence. I’ve never finished a piece I was proud of until now.

I always learn something new, and I love how relaxed your classes are. You make it easy to enjoy painting.

You are such a good teacher. You break things down and make it feel possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need watercolor experience?

Not at all. This workshop is beginner-friendly and I’ll walk you through each step. You’ll learn as you go in a low-pressure, supportive space.

 

What if I’m not good at drawing?

We’ll trace your photo onto the board so your proportions are accurate from the start. You’ll focus on learning watercolor techniques—not freehand drawing.

 

How many people will be in the class?

This is a small group workshop, limited to just 6–8 participants so everyone gets individual attention.

 

What if I don’t know what makes a good pet photo?

No problem! Just send me several options and I’ll help you choose the best one.

What I’m looking for:

  • Clear, high-resolution photo
  • Close-up of your pet’s head (eyes and face especially!)
  • Good lighting — natural light is best
  • Ideally your pet is looking at the camera, but it’s not required

 

If you’re unsure, just send a few and I’ll take it from there!

 

What if I don't have a pet, can I paint any animal?

Yes! Dogs, cats, birds, horses, bunnies — you name it! We just need a good photo. 

 

Don’t Wait – Spots Are Limited

Registration opens to the public on May 22, but early sign-ups will get first dibs—and this class will fill quickly. If you’ve been wanting to paint your pet, this is your chance to do it with guidance, support, and beautiful results.

Sign up now to reserve your seat.