Transforming Fabric with Watercolor Pencils
When I first picked up a set of watercolor pencils, I had no idea they’d become one of my favorite tools in my studio. I was simply experimenting—testing colors, doodling on fabric scraps, and watching pigments come to life with a damp brush. Then the magic happened: color bloomed into the weave of the fabric, transforming a simple sketch into something alive. That moment changed the way I create forever.
Watercolor pencils—like Zenacolor, Inktense Pencils, and Caran d’Ache crayons—are my favorite creative bridge, turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. They let me paint without fear and bring ideas to life directly on fabric—anytime, anywhere. Playful and spontaneous, yet easy to control, they’re perfect for quilters who love to experiment. Whether you’re shading appliqué pieces, adding soft backgrounds to art quilts, or creating bold color in textile portraits, watercolor pencils are a game-changer.
In my Creative Spark class, Watercolor Pencils on Fabric, I’ll guide you step by step through the process—from prepping your fabric and layering color to blending and heat-setting for permanence. Together, we’ll turn fabric into a painter’s playground using pencils and aloe. You’ll learn how to create stunning effects that stay soft to the touch and permanent on the cloth. These techniques work beautifully for art quilters, mixed-media makers, fabric crafters, and anyone who’s ever wished they could “paint” on their quilts.
What I love most about teaching this class is showing that you don’t need fancy supplies to make beautiful art. With just a few pencils, a brush, and a bit of aloe, you can transform simple fabric into something uniquely yours. The process itself is wonderfully meditative—quiet, calming, and freeing. When your hands are busy blending color and your mind starts to unwind, creativity becomes an act of self-care. That’s the heart of it for me: transforming what’s familiar into something fresh, joyful, and full of possibility.
My inspiration often comes from nature—whether it’s landscapes, animals, or people. When I take the time to really study a subject, I start to notice the subtle details I might have overlooked before. Those discoveries remind me why I create: to slow down, appreciate beauty, and share that sense of joy with others.
If you’re curious to see how watercolor pencils can transform your fabric stash, come join me on Creative Spark! Whether you’re a painter, quilter, or doodler at heart, this class invites you to play, explore, and let creativity flow freely—one brushstroke (or pencil stroke!) at a time.
Curious how “Nerdy for Nature” came to life? See my step-by-step process—from the first sketch to the final stitches—on my blog, Angela's Creative Corner.
Join my class: Watercolor Pencils on Fabric through Creative Spark. Includes step-by-step video lessons, creative tips, and bonus project ideas.
Follow my adventures on Instagram (@acrestivecorner_fiber_artist), Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/angelascreativecorner/ or visit: angelascreativecorner.com for more fiber-art inspiration!
Blog post by Angela McPherson
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Angela McPherson is a boundary-pushing fiber artist known for blending watercolor pencil techniques with thread sketching to create truly unique textile art. Fueled by her “what if” curiosity, she transforms traditional quilting into an experimental playground of color and texture. Angela brings years of in-person teaching experience to her dynamic online courses, where she encourages students to stretch their skills and break quilting rules with confidence. Her classes are equal parts inspiring, empowering, and just the right amount of rebellious.
