Styles of painting: Realism, Impressionism, Abstract, Cubism, Expressionism, and more. (See tab “Styles of Painting“)
Selecting your canvas:
For fun, ¾” depth is fine. You can paint the sides, but a frame is better to keep it from warping.
Professional, 1-1/2” depth is preferred. They are called “wrap-around”, and the sides are painted so it doesn’t require framing.
Selecting your subject.
Prepping your canvas. Charcoal and hairspray. Bare minimum of sketch.
Brushes – so very important! Only a handful are needed, but having the correct brushes and knowing how to use them is key! Long handled is for “loose” painting (standing back); short handled is for “tight” (closeup) painting. Sometimes, your fingers are your brush! (For details on brushes, see tab “Resources“)
Flat
Round
Thin
Angled
Fan
Other tools:
Pallet knife (excellent for texture)
Sponge
Q-tip
Toothbrush
Mixed media. Tissue paper and other stuff.
Mixing colors. Color wheel.
RARELY use pure black.
Some colors I simply must buy: turquoise, some shades of purple and pink.
Where to start: Background vs. subject.
Highlighting and shadowing – Source of light. VALUE: Refers to the lightness or darkness of a Know your source of light.
When are you finished?
Sealing a painting. (For details on sealing, see tab “Resources“)