There’s something about fall that just begs to be painted. Maybe it’s the color. The rich reds, golden yellows, and rusty oranges. Or maybe it’s the way the light shifts and suddenly everything feels more nostalgic. Whatever it is, autumn is basically a watercolor artist’s dream. So if you're looking for a little fall painting watercolor inspo, or maybe just an excuse to cozy up with your favorite brushes and a cup of something warm (PSL, anyone?), you’re in the right place.

Below, I’ve gathered some of my favorite fall art tutorials, everything from fiery foliage and misty autumn trees to pumpkins, wreaths, and fall florals. Each project includes links and videos to follow along with, whether you’re brand new to watercolor or already deep in your sketchbook (I’ve got a great one). So grab your paints, and let’s make some fall magic!

1. Fall Leaves & Foliage

Nothing says fall painting quite like leaves. And in watercolor? Oh, they shine. Leaves are also a great way to practice watercolor techniques like wet-on-wet, layering, and letting those beautiful blooms do their thing (nature’s tie-dye, basically).

How to Paint Fall Leaves

This tutorial is all about the classics: maple, oak, and birch. I walk you through sketching your leaf shapes first (don't skip this part—trust me, it helps), and then we move into warm, cozy tones like red, yellow, and orange. My go-to brush here? The size 6 Princeton Heritage 4050. It gives just the right balance between detail and flow.

The Easiest Way to Paint Three Fall Leaves with Watercolor!

Beginner-friendly? Check. Quick and satisfying? Absolutely. This video shows you how to paint three different leaf types without getting fussy. Great for practicing color mixing and brush control (or just getting in a festive mood).

Simple Watercolor Fall Leaf Painting Tutorial!

Think of this one as fall meets abstract art. We’ll play with gradients, water control, and splatter. Loose and free, this leaf painting is basically watercolor playtime.

2. Autumn Trees & Landscapes

If fall leaves are the showstoppers, then fall trees are the backdrop. And oh, what a dreamy one. Painting trees can feel intimidating, but once you get the hang of shapes and brush movement, they’re surprisingly approachable.

Trees in the Fall

Inspired by a real-life fall road trip (I still remember driving down Chuckanut Road in Washington, those trees were exploding with color!), this tutorial walks you through easy fall trees using my go-to techniques. Think dragging, poking, and pushing your brush into new shapes.

How to Paint Autumn Trees

In this tutorial, we revisit tree shapes from a previous green version and give them a fall twist. We're talking cones, spears, and pine tree shapes and adding red, gold, and orange.

These fall painting tutorials are great practice for anyone who wants to get more comfortable with landscape painting. And the best part? They’re totally customizable.

3. Pumpkins & Seasonal Decor

Pumpkins aren’t just for carving. They’re also perfect watercolor subjects. They’re round, curvy, and super satisfying to paint. Whether you’re creating cozy fall decor or a festive greeting card, pumpkins bring that seasonal charm.

Watercolor Pumpkins with Eucalyptus and Berries

This one's not just a pumpkin, it’s a whole scene. I show you how to build dimension and color contrast by adding eucalyptus leaves and little berry accents. It’s the kind of piece you’ll want to frame for your fall decor (or gift to your PSL-loving bestie).

How to Paint a Pumpkin

This tutorial keeps it simple. We use a “C” curve technique that’s super intuitive (great for beginners!). With just one brush (my trusty size 16 Princeton Heritage 4050), you can paint a plump little pumpkin that’s bursting with cozy vibes.

These tutorials are some of my most-loved fall art tutorials because they blend simplicity with style. And they’re just plain fun.

4. Florals & Botanicals for Fall

Florals aren’t just for spring, you know. I love painting fall florals because of the moody colors and organic textures. It’s a chance to explore deep reds, golden ochres, and lush greens in a really expressive way.

How to Paint a Fall Wreath

This tutorial is for the fall romantics. We’re painting a loose floral wreath that feels wild and whimsical. It’s the kind of project you can put on your fall decoration table or send as a thank-you card. 

Easiest Way to Paint Ten Fall Flowers with Watercolor

TEN flowers in one video? You bet. Our original “10 Easy Flowers” tutorial was such a hit, I had to do a fall version! In this step-by-step video, I walk you through painting ten cozy fall and winter blooms. It's a super relaxing way to explore new shapes and seasonal color palettes. Perfect for sketchbook practice or adding floral flair to your fall painting collection.

How to Paint a Simple Fall-Inspired Fern

This little fern painting is quick, colorful, and full of movement. We’re using reds, pinks, and greens to create something vibrant and seasonal. Perfect if you’re short on time but still craving some fall watercolor inspo.

Tips for Painting Fall in Watercolor

Before you dive into your next piece, here are a few quick tips I swear by for fall painting:

• Limit your palette. Try starting with 4–5 core colors and mixing variations. It keeps your artwork cohesive and gives you more control over the mood.
• Layer with patience. Fall colors are bold, but they look best when built up slowly. Let each layer dry before adding depth.
• Don’t fight the blooms. Watercolor blooms (those cauliflower-like patterns) can actually enhance the texture of leaves and trees. Embrace them!
• Use the right paper. A good cold-press watercolor paper will help those colors blend just right. I love Arches or Canson for most fall projects.

Think you need fancy tools to create depth and interest in watercolor? Nope. In this blog, I share simple, creative ways to add texture to your paintings using supplies you already have. Read it here!

Let Fall Inspire Your Creativity

Whether you’re here for the pumpkins, the foliage, or the cozy florals, I hope this fall painting roundup gives you the watercolor inspo you need to create something beautiful. Fall is full of inspiration (cooler days, shifting skies, golden light) and watercolor is such a wonderful way to soak it all in.

And hey, if you’re feeling stuck or want more guidance, I’ve got plenty of step-by-step tutorials on my YouTube channel, a bunch of watercolor books, (and a full art course, just sayin’) to help you grow your skills while keeping it fun and pressure-free.

So go ahead, let your brushes dance in those autumn tones. Happy painting!