Starting the Challenge

I had wanted to take on a challenge like the 100 day project for a long time, but I never quite found the right timing—or the right idea of what to create 100 times.

My first painting medium was acrylic, so I was always comfortable with it, but I wanted to improve my skills in watercolor art. I’d dabbled here and there, but I wanted to teach myself what worked, what didn’t, and hopefully discover my style.

Since I’ve always gravitated toward nature-themed art, I thought watercolor would be the perfect way to explore that. The question was: how do I make it manageable without burning out?

That’s when I discovered artist trading cards (ATCs)—tiny 2.5 x 3.5-inch paintings that artists can create, send in, and trade with others. The size felt approachable. Instead of committing to full-page works, I could paint one small piece a day and build momentum.

The First Month: Consistency and Flow

In February, I started strong. I was motivated, inspired, and managed to paint one card a day for about a month. Each card felt like a little adventure, and sharing my progress on Twitch and Instagram stories kept me excited.

When Life Changed

In April, everything shifted. A death in my family left me grieving, uninspired, and unable to create for a while. The project suddenly felt impossible.

When I did pick up my brushes again, I wasn’t as consistent as before. I painted in small batches when inspiration struck, but the daily rhythm was gone.

Another challenge was my creative nature—I don’t usually stick with one medium. I like bouncing between whatever inspires me in the moment, so focusing only on watercolor started to feel restrictive. I wanted to try other projects but also felt tied down by the commitment I had made to myself.

Finding My Way Back

By July, I started batching again, painting multiple cards at once during streams. Still, my energy for the project wasn’t what it had been in the beginning.

It wasn’t until my 24-hour Twitch stream that I finished the project—painting the last 11 cards within the first 12 hours. By then, it felt less about inspiration and more about determination to finish what I had started.

What I Learned

Even though it wasn’t a perfect journey, I’m proud of myself for finishing. Here’s what I took away:

• Discipline matters – Even when motivation fades, commitment can carry you through.

• Exploration is okay – I learned I’m not meant to stick with one medium forever, and that’s part of my creative process.

• Growth happens – I may not be a watercolor master, but I definitely improved and learned techniques that I can take with me into future projects.

• Challenges reveal character – I didn’t give up, and that showed me I can push through obstacles and still create something meaningful.

Final Thoughts

The 100 day project pushed me outside my comfort zone, and while it wasn’t always easy, it was worth it. I don’t know if I’ll ever do another 100-day challenge, but I do see myself trying 30-day projects instead—long enough to grow, but short enough to switch mediums before I feel stuck.

For artists who love one medium, I think the 100 day project is an incredible way to see progress and explore your style. And even if you don’t finish perfectly, you’ll learn so much about yourself along the way.

If you’re curious about the specific supplies I used to make this project possible, be sure to check out my blog “Beginner Watercolor Supplies I Used for My 100-Day Challenge.”

✨ Have you ever tried a 100 day project or a creative challenge? Would you go for the full 100, or would you prefer shorter sprints like 30 days? Lastly, would you choose watercolor, or a different medium? Lets chat about it!