“Gouache Might Be the Perfect Paint ? (and Why I think It’s Making a Comeback)”

A look at what makes this humble hero of the painting world so special…..

2. What is the difference between gouache and watercolour paint?

Both are water-based paints, but gouache has a heavier body and is typically more opaque than watercolour. This is due to the addition of white pigment, which gives it that soft, chalky matte look.

Designer gouache, in particular, does contain white pigment in every colour, which can make some colours feel slightly chalky—especially if you're layering heavily or using a cheaper brand. If your paint starts to feel dry or draggy, it's often a sign there’s too much white pigment in the mix. Some artists prefer to avoid designer gouache for this reason and instead mix their own opacities using traditional gouache and a touch of white.

Watercolour, on the other hand, is transparent—you build up colour in light layers, letting the whiteness of the paper shine through. But gouache is much more forgiving: you can paint light over dark, rework areas, and even water it down to behave like watercolour if you want soft blends and washy effects.

In-Store Gouache Painting Workshop

with Jemma Jamie Skidmore at Anthropologie Cheltenham

3. What is the difference between water-based gouache and modern acrylic gouache?

Water-based gouache remains water-soluble even after it dries, meaning you can re-wet and rework it—ideal for those who like flexibility and layering. Acrylic gouache, on the other hand, dries permanent and cannot be reactivated. This can make it easier for beginners who want their layers to stay put. Acrylic gouache is widely available, comes in a large range of colours, and can be helpful for consistent colour tracking (useful in picture book work). However, acrylic gouache can dry with a slightly shiny finish if applied too thickly, while water-based gouache stays beautifully matte—but may crack when applied in very thick layers.

4. What do you use gouache paint for?

The uses of gouache are practically limitless! It’s an incredibly versatile paint that dates back as far as Ancient Egypt. In more recent history, it has been widely used in editorial illustration, animation backgrounds, poster design, fine art, and sketchbooks. Gouache is particularly loved for its ability to layer flat colour, adjust easily, and mimic the look of oil painting without the long drying times. I also sell original gouache artwork through an online gallery called Sulis, which deals in both vintage and contemporary works—and gouache is one of their most popular mediums.

Gouache & Marbled Paper Collage

5. Why is gouache so unpopular?

Controversial opinion—it’s not unpopular, just misunderstood! Because it sits somewhere between watercolour and acrylic, gouache is often overlooked. But many artists who use it swear by it. Gouache reproduces beautifully in print, which is why it was a go-to for illustrators and designers in the pre-digital era. As digital art and photography became dominant, gouache fell out of fashion. That said, it has a rich fine art history—used by the likes of Paul Klee, Henri Matisse, and British painter Eric Ravilious—and it’s now enjoying a resurgence in illustration, design, and contemporary painting circles.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/JemmaJamieShop?ref=seller-platform-mcnav