🍂 Easy Watercolor Fall Cabin Tutorial | Artist Review

✅ Quick Overview

• Follow along with Andrea Nelson’s cheerful and beginner-friendly Fall Cabin tutorial

• Try watercolor blobs — a fun and flexible technique perfect for treetops and loose shapes

• See how personal touches like shape, paper size, and color palette make it your own

• Ideal for busy artists — this project takes about 30 minutes and fits any skill level

• Includes artist insights, supply list, and encouragement to try your own seasonal twist

Introduction

Explore a fun and easy watercolor project you can complete in just 30 minutes! I recently tried Andrea Nelson’s Fall Cabin tutorial, and in this review, I’ll walk you through my process, share my insights, and discuss one of my favorite techniques — watercolor blobs.

As a self-taught watercolor artist, I’m always on the lookout for quick and enjoyable tutorials that fit into my busy schedule. Whether it’s through Instagram or YouTube, I love discovering new artists and techniques to try out. 

One of my favorite artists is Andrea Nelson (Andrea Nelson Art), who I follow on Instagram. Her tutorials are vibrant, fun, and packed with creative inspiration. If you haven't checked her out yet, I recommend you do so — you’ll find so much ease and positivity in her approach to painting.

Tutorial Review: Fall Cabin by Andrea Nelson 

Screenshot of Andrea Nelson's Fall Cabin tutorial on Instagram

This post is all about Andrea’s Fall Cabin tutorial, which I tried and loved. Here’s how I approached the project:

1. Watch the tutorial – I always start by watching the tutorial from start to finish.

2. Explore extra content – I check out Andrea’s other platforms for related shorts or behind-the-scenes content.

3. Get my supplies ready – I gather my materials before diving in.

4. Refer back to the tutorial – I keep the tutorial accessible on my MacBook in case I need to check anything.

5. Let it dry – After painting, I put the artwork aside to dry before taking a fresh look.

6. Write the review – Once everything's dry, I rewatch the tutorial and write up my review.

Fyi, links to Andrea's Fall Cabin tutorial are in the Resources section of this article.

🖌️ My Painting Process 

I set aside about 30 minutes one day to try Andrea's Fall Cabin. As I didn't have the same size watercolor paper as Andrea used, I taped down an 8" square sheet. I used some new tubes of Daniel Smith watercolor I received as a Christmas gift (I was anxious to try them out!), and also employed Winsor & Newton Promarker Watercolors for the tree trunks and detail-work

While I was painting the fall cabin, it occurred to me the cabin tutorial could be easily adapted for the other seasons, so don't be surprised if I am inspired to paint a different version for winter, spring, or summer! If I do, I'll update this post with a show & tell :)

I really enjoyed following along Andrea's process and commentary, she is so upbeat and matter-of-fact; and it was a lot of fun to paint. 

🎨 Art Supplies I Used for My Fall Cabin Painting

Paper: Fabriano 8" square cold press 140 lb watercolor paper

• Paints: Daniel Smith watercolor tubes in Iridescent Vibrant Raspberry, Duochrome Emerald, Olive Green, Iridescent Bronze

• Markers: Winsor & Newton Promarker Watercolors (Sap Green, Yellow Ochre, Ivory Black)

• Pens: White Sakura Gelly Roll 08, Black Sharpie Pen

🖼️ Andrea's Original and My Version 

Here’s a photo of Andrea’s original (left) and my version (right):

Screenshot  of Andrea Nelson's original Fall Cabin painting on the left, and photo of my version on the right

As you can see, I made a few changes. I used:

• I used square watercolor paper, and
• a different color palette,
• and opted for a square-ish cabin rather than the A-frame in Andrea’s version.

That’s the beauty of watercolor — it’s all about personal expression.

The Versatility of Watercolor Blobs 

When you view Andrea's Fall Cabin tutorial, you'll hear her talk about creating "blobs" for the treetops.

Blobs as a painting technique are quite common in watercolor and other mediums, typically used in loose or abstract styles. Blob shapes can be a foundation for creating more detailed forms, or they can stand alone as the main element of the artwork. The technique is particularly well-suited for beginners and artists who enjoy (or wish to explore) a simple yet impactful approach to painting.

Personally, blobs have long been a go-to shape for me, and I think you'll find them a fun, freeing technique in watercolor painting. Whether they’re turned into treetops, fish, pumpkins, or faces, blobs can add a lot of character to your artwork. 

Related Post:
If you enjoy working with blobs, check out my Simple and Fun Spring Meadow Watercolor Tutorial Review where flowers begin as blobs.

Wrap-Up: Why I Love This Project 💖

In my own watercolor practice, I've found that following someone else’s tutorial is a wonderful way to flex and expand my skill set. It’s about learning new techniques and experimenting with different styles — without the pressure of creating something completely original. And when it’s an artist like Andrea Nelson, who brings so much positivity and energy to the table, it just makes the experience that much more fun and fulfilling. 

Andrea’s tutorials are perfect for beginners and busy artists alike, offering accessible art experiences that are quick, fun, and full of creative potential. Plus, creating art with artists who share such enthusiasm and warmth enhances the whole experience.

Have you tried Andrea’s Fall Cabin tutorial, or experimented with watercolor blobs? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations! Tag me on Instagram, and let’s inspire each other :)

⏩ Quick Access Links to Tutorial

• Andrea Nelson’s Fall Cabin Tutorial on Instagram

• Andrea Nelson’s Fall Cabin Tutorial on YouTube 

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