Gouache

painting · water-based art · illustration · design

Thick and opaque. Unlike watercolor, which is transparent and lets light shine through, gouache is thick and creamy, so it covers up whatever is underneath it completely. This makes it perfect for creating bright, solid areas of color.

Water-based paint. Gouache is made from natural pigments (colored powders), water, a binder that makes it stick, and sometimes chalk or other materials. You mix it with water just like watercolor, making it easy to clean up and safe to use.

Super old art form. Artists have been using gouache for over 1,200 years! It became especially popular for creating posters, comic books, and illustrations because the colors look so bright and eye-catching.

Smooth, flat finish. When gouache dries, it creates a soft, matte surface that looks velvety rather than shiny. This special look makes artwork seem more polished and professional.

Designer favorite. Commercial artists love gouache for making posters, advertisements, and comic book art because you can cover mistakes easily and the colors pop right off the page.