Mastering the Art of Painting Fog in Watercolor

There’s something magical about fog in a landscape painting. It creates a soft, mysterious atmosphere that instantly transforms a scene into something dreamlike. But painting fog with watercolors can be tricky—too much paint, and you lose the airy effect; too little, and it disappears completely.

So how do you get that perfect misty look? Here are a few simple techniques to help you create beautiful, atmospheric fog in your watercolor paintings.

1. Start with Soft, Watery Washes

Fog isn’t harsh or defined, so your first step is to use very diluted paint. Light grays, blues, and purples work well for a moody effect. Use a large brush and lots of water to keep things loose and airy.

2. Blend and Lift for Depth

Once your first wash is down, use a damp brush (not too wet!) to soften edges and blend the fog into the background. You can also use a tissue or a dry brush to lift some of the paint, creating that natural, wispy effect.

3. Add Layers for a Realistic Look

Fog has depth, so building up soft, transparent layers is key. Let each layer dry before adding another to create the illusion of distance—darker values in the foreground and lighter ones fading into the background.

4. Try a Touch of White Gouache

For an extra pop of mist, white gouache can be a great tool! A few gentle dabs of diluted gouache in key areas can enhance the fog without overpowering the softness of the watercolor.

5. Keep It Loose and Mysterious

The biggest mistake artists make when painting fog is trying to make it too detailed. Let the paint do its thing! Watercolor is all about flow and movement, so embrace the natural blending that happens.

Want to See This in Action?

I just shared a new YouTube video where I walk through my process of painting a dreamy foggy scene. Watch it here: 

Have you tried painting fog before? Let me know in the comments what your biggest struggle is—I’d love to help!

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