What is Gouache? I get asked this question a lot actually. Watercolor artists often ask me what the difference is after coming from an art store where watercolor and gouache are in the same side of the aisle. This makes sense because gouache is watercolor...sort of. Let me explain. Gouache is watercolor, same process, different amounts. Gouache contains watercolor pigment but in much much higher volume so it is opaque, it also has chalk added sometimes. In regular watercolor the ratio of pigment is much less, which gives it that thin and lovely watercolor feel.
Confused yet? Here's a simple sentence that explains it: Gouache is opaque watercolor. It is dull and lacks the shine that watercolor has, and its wonderful for many things, including illustration. If you enjoy watercolor give gouache a chance. Like all paints it comes in student to professional grade so don't make a big investment until you are sure you enjoy it.
Confused yet? Here's a simple sentence that explains it: Gouache is opaque watercolor. It is dull and lacks the shine that watercolor has, and its wonderful for many things, including illustration. If you enjoy watercolor give gouache a chance. Like all paints it comes in student to professional grade so don't make a big investment until you are sure you enjoy it.