Paint a Cosmos Flower in Watercolour

Learn how to paint a loose, expressive cosmos flower in watercolour with this full step-by-step tutorial.

This is the extended version of my viral Instagram reel, where I walk you through the entire process in real time. From sketching the basic petal structure to building depth with layered colour and fine details, you’ll see exactly how the painting comes together.

This tutorial covers:
• How to sketch a simple cosmos flower
• Wet-on-dry technique for clean layers
• Using opera pink, reds and indigo for depth
• Creating light, shadow and petal movement
• Adding fine details and texture with brush control

Cosmos flowers are one of the easiest and most satisfying subjects to paint, especially if you’re learning watercolour or looking to loosen up your style.

Materials used:
• Watercolour paints (opera pink, red, indigo, yellow ochre)
• Round brush with a fine tip
• Watercolour paper