DIY Watercolor Pet Portraits

Looking for even more ways to show how much you love your furry friend? In just minutes you can create a personalized piece of art that perfectly captures their spirit.

Related To:

DIY Watercolor Pet Portraits
Loading Video...

Materials Needed

  • photo of your pet
  • tissue paper
  • tape
  • pencil
  • watercolor paper
  • fine-point permanent marker
  • watercolor paints
  • paintbrush
  • water
  • paper towel

Create Stencil

Secure a piece of tissue paper over the top of your pet’s portrait. Trace over all main features of your pet using a pencil. For the eyes, create a closed eyelid with lashes to give your pet a picture-perfect look. 

Transfer Tracing

Once the tissue paper tracing has been completed, secure the tracing to a piece of watercolor paper. Begin retracing all lines with a fine-tipped permanent marker, which will bleed through the tissue onto the watercolor paper. Remove the tissue paper, and re-trace the lines once more to darken them.

Paint Your Pet

Using the original picture as your guide, paint your pet using the watercolor paints. If any paint goes on too thick, dab the paint with a paper towel. To give your painting more life, be sure to add shading. 

Finish and Frame

After your watercolor painting has completely dried, place the painting in a frame, or give it a prime spot on the fridge. 

Next Up

How to Prepare and What to Expect When Adopting a Cat

Bringing home a furball is the adventure of a lifetime. Consider our pro advice to ensure you and your feline familiar live happily ever after.

Christina Anstead Celebrates Her Adorable Dog's Birthday

Cashie the French bulldog is just one of many HGTV pets we love.

Protect Your Pets From Harmful Plants

If your dog loves to be outside in the garden, use these tips to help keep him safe.

8 Things to Know Before You Get a Pet Hedgehog

Hedgehogs are the darlings of Instagram, but they’re not your typical pet. Here, a pro shares how to care for these tiny desert denizens.

I Tested Amazon's Best-Selling Automatic Pet Feeder

The Arf Pets automatic food dispenser is top-rated with more than 50 percent of reviewers giving it five-stars. So, did it live up to the hype? Read on to find out.

The Best Dog Shampoos of 2024 for Every Pup

Tackle odors, coat health and more with these vet-approved and paw-parent beloved brands.

How to Remove a Tick From a Dog

Put your mind at ease and follow these proactive steps to take care of your active, outdoor-loving dog.

Nautical Finds for Your Pet That Scream Summer

Shop for something new for your furry first mate.

The Best Dog Toys for Puppies, Adults and Seniors

Keep your dog busy and their senses sharp with the best toys for every stage.

How to Make a Christmas Catnip Toy

Don't forget your furry best friend when making handmade gifts for the holidays. With just basic sewing skills, you can whip up a catnip-filled stocking-shaped toy as a surprise for your favorite kitty.

What's New in Handmade

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.