Here are simple steps for demystify painting with acrylics. The first thing is to completely visualize what your completed painting will look like. Some things to keep in mind are the composition, the colors, the textures and the source of light creating dark and light contrasts. If you are beginning as an artist, a medium size like a 16" by 20" canvas will work just great. For this exercise, you can use a large flat bristle brush, a small or medium flat bristle brush, a small or medium round bristle brush, and a fine tip soft bristle brush. I get great deals at Michael's.
PAINT THE CANVAS WITH A BACKGROUND COLOR
Once you've visualized what your completed painting will look like, choose one of the dominant colors of your composition and paint the canvas completely using a wide flat bristle brush. As you get more proficient, you might combine or blend two or more colors into the background, but for starters, try just one color. For example, a landscape painting may have a lot of blues and greens, so choosing one of these colors would be a good option. Apply paint in a even layer that is not too thick or too thin. A general rule of thumb would be to apply paint thick enough so your canvas does not show through, which would take around an hour or less to dry. Let your canvas dry completely before applying any more paint.
SKETCH OUT YOUR PAINTING
Using a round bristle brush, sketch out your main features of your painting using a color that is a little darker than your background color.
FILL IN YOUR FOREGROUND, MID-GROUND, AND BACKGROUND
Start with your most dominant feature, for example, a boat or trees, and begin filling in the relevant colors. Work from the front to the back of the painting giving it perspective and depth. Once you have filled in the main colors, stop for a minute and stand back to look at your painting. Check to see if there is a good balance and make a mental note of what adjustments may need to be made.
CREATE LIGHT AND DARK SHADOWS
Creating highlights and shadows will give your painting more depth and perspective. Imagine where your light source is coming from. For example, if your light source is in the top right, there will be highlights or lighter areas on the right side of your painting and more shadows and darker areas on the left side of your painting.
FINAL TOUCH-UPS
Sometimes, it is beneficial to just take a break and walk away from you painting for a while. Then come back and look at it. This will give you a better idea what final touch-ups may need to be made. Neaten edges with a fine tipped soft bristle brush.
HELPFUL HINTS
- Start with a wet paintbrush, blotting off any excess water with a paper towel
- Blend paint colors together while they are still wet
- Do not overwork your colors
- Trust your instincts and your brush
- There are no mistakes so go easy on yourself
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