I wish somebody had told me these things when I started painting!  Here is a book that answers 140 questions.  It helps if you are a specialist in landscapes and seascapes, as if you are into portraits or fantasy art many of the tips won’t apply.  Learn how to paint the various components of trees, clouds, water and more, make a wash and work from photographs properly and all sorts of other things.  The book has a brief, snappy style with helpful illustrations and is very easy to understand.  I found myself surprised at how much I didn’t know and even if you are not a beginner this book will have plenty to say that is interesting and illuminating.  I also like the way it opens out flat — more practical books ought to be made this way as it is so much easier to work from.

If you cannot find a good range of watercolor materials used in this book locally try SearchPress.com for a list of suppliers.