I thought it would be fun to create some illustrations based on RPG classes that I could turn into prints, stickers, and pins—so I started developing this idea called Loot & Magic, sort of a collection of images representing different classes from RPG games. I came up with a list of 12 classes, and the first three I’m focusing on are the Wizard, the Rogue, and the Paladin.
I started sketching objects I thought each class could be associated with, and once I had a bunch, I picked two per class. Then I refined the sketches and transferred them onto watercolor paper.
For paper, I used Fabriano Acquarello Artistico—100% cotton, hot pressed. It’s a block of paper I bought eons ago and never used, and I figured this would be the perfect project to finally put it to use. I’m still figuring it out, though. After a few layers, the watercolor seems to sit on top of the paper and becomes kind of reactivatable, which isn’t great if you want certain parts to be “sealed.” I don’t have this issue with ARCHES, so I’m trying to figure out if it’s a pigment-specific thing or just how this paper behaves.
Anyway, once the drawings were transferred, I stretched the paper and attached it to my watercolor board (thanks to my trusty LUKAS gummed tape), and then started painting.
This next part is probably the most challenging, but also crucial—I establish all the values using Neutral Tint by Daniel Smith. Once that’s done, applying color becomes much easier since the values are already mapped out.
When the painting was finished, I scanned it and sent the file to the printer to make A4 prints, which I’m now selling in my Etsy shop. Go grab one—I only printed 20 of these!
Enjoy the video process!