Oil Painting Dos and Don’ts to Help New Artists Adjust
Although there are many forms of art that have evolved and come to life throughout the years, nothing can beat a classic oil painting. This type of art was developed in the 1400s, and it has remained one of the most popular forms of art to this day. Artists love how they can create a seemingly infinite number of colors and shades to give their paintings the right hue and tone.
While there is not very much distinction between oil paint and other forms of paint, there are some precautions that an artist may want to take if they use this form of material for their art. If you’re going to start oil painting as a hobby, this article will outline the DOs and DON’Ts to help you get started.
Oil Painting Dos and Don’ts to Help New Artists Adjust
Oil-based paint may be similar to other types of paint, but it can also be different in many ways. Here are the critical Dos and Don’ts to keep in mind when using oil-based paint for your art.
DOs
1 - Do Experiment with Wetness
Since water and oil do not mix, you can experiment with the wetness of your paint. The amount of water you incorporate into your paint will affect how the paint dries, and the colors left as an after-effect. Experimenting with wetness will allow you to discover other ways for you to use your paints.
2 - Do Embrace the Potential of Solvent Mediums
Oil-based paint can be thinned out to achieve different effects on the canvass. To use your paint to its full potential, you can try to use other solvent mediums or paint thinners to help you achieve the effect you are after.
3 - Do Use a Palette Knife
Using a pallet knife will allow you to mix your paints more efficiently and apply the paint onto the canvas. Palette knives will have a flatter, straighter effect on how the paint will set on the painting.
DON’Ts
1 - Don’t Disregard Drying Time
Oil paintings take a longer time to dry in comparison to water-based paint. Drying time may also be influenced by the amount of paint you use. Make sure your painting is set to rest and dry in a place that is away from the reach of your kid and pets until the paint will have fully set and dried.
2 - Don’t Forget to Clean Your Brushes
You have to make an effort to clean your brushes after you paint. Clean them and make sure that there is no left-over paint on your brushes, to ensure that they remain in good, usable condition.
Conclusion
Although it may seem like an intimidating art form in the beginning, once you will get used to using oil paint, you will see that there are many advantages that come with using this type of paint! As long as you are careful to consider drying time, you will find that you will produce stunningly beautiful works of art with oil paint! If all else fails, investing in lessons will help you get the hang of oil painting!
If you want to improve your skill in oil painting, you can pay for the instructional shop for E. John’s oil and watercolor teaching courses. You can purchase instructional classes in DVD format. Get in the know on how to start oil painting by contacting us today!