If you want to paint more often but struggle to make time for it, you’re not alone. One of the biggest challenges for watercolor beginners isn’t learning technique - it’s starting. Life gets busy, motivation fades, and setting up your workspace can feel like too much effort. I was there too.
The Struggle to Find Time to Paint
I started watercolor when my youngest son was a newborn. I was a full-time stay-at-home mom, trying to rediscover something that felt like me. But I only had small pockets of time to paint, usually during nap times that could last 20 minutes… or 2 minutes. If I had to clean my desk, find brushes, and set up paint every time, I would’ve never picked up a brush.
So I made myself a rule: always be ready to paint in 30 seconds or less.
The Two-Jar Trick
The easiest part of that system, and the one I still use today, was simply this:
- Keep two jars of clean water ready on your desk
- One jar for rinsing warm colors (red, orange, yellow), one for cool colors (blue, purple, green)
- Lids on top so dust (or curious little hands!) don’t get in
It sounds almost too simple, but it worked. When my baby fell asleep, I didn’t waste time setting up. I opened my sketchbook, dipped my brush, and painted. When nap time ended, I closed the jars and walked away. No mess, no guilt, no overthinking.
Small Setup, Big Difference
If you want to build a consistent painting habit, remove the barriers between you and your creativity. Here are some easy ways to make your space “paint ready”:
Leave two jars of water ready, keep your watercolor pad open, brushes in a cup, palette nearby—whatever makes it easier to start. You don’t need a perfect studio. You just need a system that invites you back, again and again.
Quick Setup Ideas |
Why It Helps |
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Leave two water jars ready |
No setup time |
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Keep brushes out |
Easy access |
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Leave your watercolor pad open |
Visual reminder |
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Tape inspiration photos on your wall |
Keeps you motivated |
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Pre-select a simple project |
Avoid decision fatigue |
You don’t need a fancy studio—you just need a system that invites you back, again and again. When your tools are ready, your creativity follows.
Start Small, Paint Often
A few minutes of painting a day—yes, even just 10 minutes—adds up faster than you think. You’ll build confidence, sharpen your skills, and stay connected to something that brings you joy. And honestly, your future self will be glad you started.