Get yourself set-up with all your supplies accessible (palette not shown).
Warning: Oil paint somehow manages to get on everything. Cover anything you don't want painted (ie. your carpet) with plastic sheet. Even with an apron, you may still get it on your clothes... good luck getting it out.
Paint your blank canvas with 2 layers of Gesso (allow time to dry between layers).
What you need to know about oil paint:
Choose a color to paint your canvas with! This base layer will affect the tone of your painting on top.
I then like to layout my painting, finding the space for various elements in my composition (you can also map it out on your canvas first with charcoal)
Go at it! Start mixing and smearing that paint on the canvas. Use any tools you want to apply the paint, get creative!
Name | Application | Effect |
---|---|---|
Gamsol | Mix with paint before applying | Thins paint, making it more translucent, less texture. Accelerates dry time. |
Liquin | Mix with paint before applying | Thickens paint, adds depth to colors, adds texture. Accelerates dry time. |
Linseed/Walnut Oil | Mix with paint before applying | Thins paint, less/smoother texture. Takes longer to dry. |
How do I know when I'm done?!
This is a common artist's dillema...
Here's my advice, ask yourself, "Have I done enough to effectively represent my subject(s)?" and "Have I conveyed my intended meaning?"
If you answer "yes," then congrats! If you answer "no," then keep at it! OR just quit there, congrats you finished!
Which Famous Painter are You? Take the Quiz!