Top 10 Tips for Beginner Oil Painters
Are you new to oil painting? If so, you are in for a treat! Oil painting is a wonderfully versatile medium that can be used to create beautiful works of art. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 top tips for new oil painters. We will cover everything from choosing the right paints and brushes to creating texture and depth in your paintings. So whether you are just starting out or you are looking for some new ideas, read on for some helpful advice!
- One important tip for new oil painters is to choose the right type of paint. There are many different brands and types of oil paints available on the market, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase. You will also need to decide whether you want to use traditional oil paint or water-soluble oil paint. Water-soluble oil paint is a newer type of paint that allows you to clean your brushes with water, making it a bit easier to work with.
- If you're new to oil paints, starting with a small canvas will give you the freedom to quickly try new techniques and play around with the paint. This will help you to build up your confidence and get a feel for the medium before tackling a larger project.
- When it comes to mixing paint colors, new oil painters should start with a limited palette. This will help you to avoid getting overwhelmed by the many different color options available. Once you are more comfortable with mixing colors, you can gradually add more colors to your palette.
- Another important tip for new oil painters is to invest in good quality brushes. There are many different types of brushes available, so it is important to choose the ones that will work best for the type of painting you want to do. For example, if you are planning on doing a lot of detail work, you will need smaller brushes. On the other hand, if you want to create large, sweeping brush strokes, you will need larger brushes.
- Another helpful tip for new oil painters is to use a grisaille underpainting technique. This involves painting your entire canvas in a monochromatic color scheme before adding your final layers of color. This technique can help you to create more depth and dimension in your paintings.
- Be sure to take your time and experiment with different techniques. There is no right or wrong way to paint, so don't be afraid to try something new. You may also want to consider taking a painting class or workshop to learn more about the medium. Rob Shaw Gallery does offer classes so give us a call to inquire about our next class.
- There are three essential rules: ‘fat over lean’, ‘thick over thin’ and ‘slow-drying over fast-drying’. This means that each layer of paint should be progressively more flexible, thicker and slow drying than the one below it. This stops the layers from cracking as you work and can be achieved by increasing the amount of paint on the brush with each new layer.
- If you opted for a wooden palette, make sure it is soaked in boiled oil or varnish for wood. Otherwise, the palette may absorb oil from the paint, thereby changing its properties.
- Don't forget the palette knife! The palette knife isn't merely a trowel that you use to mix paint! At times, it can also be used very effectively to make interesting strokes. A palette knife is particularly useful for making textural and unpredictable strokes – effects that you'd be hard-pressed to duplicate with a brush.
- One final tip for new oil painters is to have fun! Painting should be enjoyable, so don't get too caught up in the details. Experiment with different techniques and colors, and see what you can create! Who knows, you may just discover your new favorite hobby. So get out there and start painting! We hope these tips have been helpful for you. Happy painting!
Don't forget to share your paintings with us once you're done! We would love to see what you've created. Tag us on social media or use the hashtag #oilpaintingweco.