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I frequently like to paint watercolor still lifes using the grisaille method.  This involves using a neutral underpainting, (usually gray) letting it dry completely, and then applying transparent layers of color directly over the underpainting.  The result is a very deep, three-dimensional image, and can include beautiful color without the danger of lifting the underlying layers.  I used this method for my painting "Tea Time Strawberries." The strawberries were painted first in a monochromatic underpainting, using Payne's Gray watercolor.  When dry, layers of transparent reds and gold were applied to achieve the rich, deep color, while the underpainting shows through to reveal the form and shadows of the strawberries.     

                            

Strawberries - grisaille underpainting                                        Finished painting