50+ Watercolor Cat Painting Ideas Inspiration & Tutorials [Art Scene Examples]

Below are 50+ watercolor cat example ideas that you can use as reference photos for watercolor cat art. These ideas are intended to provide you inspiration for your own watercolor cat art painting. After the photos, I have included a list of tips for painting watercolor cat scenes for beginners and four watercolor cat painting tutorials for beginners to learn from.

Watercolor Cat Painting Ideas

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Watercolor Cat Painting Tips for Beginners

• Start with a simple sketch – If you are a beginner, my advice before you dive into painting is to begin with a basic outline of your cat on the canvas. This sketch helps guide your painting and ensures that the proportions and placement are accurate. You don’t need to detail every fur strand – just get the general shape and main features down.

• Experiment with the texture for the fur: Different cats have different types of fur, so capturing the texture is crucial. I like to use specific brush strokes to mimic the length and texture of your cat’s fur. This takes practice. Short, quick strokes can represent short fur, while longer, fluid strokes can mimic longer fur. Don’t aim for perfection, but try to convey the overall feel.

• Pay attention to the eyes – The eyes are often said to be the window to the soul, and this holds true for watercolor cat scenes as well. My advice is to make sure you capture the expression in the cat’s eyes. It can really bring your painting to life. Take your time with this part, as getting the eyes right can make a big difference in the overall feel of your artwork.

• Select a meaningful scene or background – Whether your cat loves lounging in the sun or exploring the backyard, select a background that tells a story about its personality. An appropriate scene can add context and enhance the overall impact of your painting. If you are worried about details, don’t be. A blurry landscape background can be a perfect way to start.

Watercolor Cat Painting Tutorials for Beginners

How to Paint Watercolor Cats for Beginners – This tutorial is perfect for beginners looking to dive into the world of watercolor cat art. This tutorial breaks down the painting process into simple, easy-to-follow steps, making it doable and fun even if you are a beginner.​ Click here to view.

4 Step Easy Watercolor Cat Tutorial – I like this watercolor cat tutorial because it simplifies the painting process into four simple steps. The end result is a beautiful watercolor cat image that adds a pop of color to the eyes to make them stand out. Click here to view.

How to Paint a Siamese Cat in Watercolor – My advice for this tutorial is to think of it as a specialized guide for those interested in painting Siamese cats. Its focus on a specific breed allows for an in-depth look at the unique characteristics that define a Siamese cat, providing a more specific learning experience. Click here to view.

Cute Cat Watercolor Painting Tutorial on a Budget – I recommend this tutorial for anyone that wants to learn how to paint a watercolor cat on a budget using cheaper paints. It demonstrates that you don’t need expensive supplies to create beautiful art, making watercolor painting more enjoyable for those just starting out (or on a tight budget). Click here to view.

3 Easy Watercolor Cat Painting Ideas to Try – This tutorial teaches you how to paint three different types of watercolor cats. This variety allows for a broader understanding of how to approach different fur patterns and poses, making it a good tutorial if you are just starting out. Click here to view.