How to paint a picture: some tips to inspire you
Would you like to paint a picture? Then there are a few things you need to take into account, from the materials to the right techniques. Perhaps you think that painting a picture is an activity that is only allowed for those people with certain “artistic gifts” or who have attended painting classes. Nothing could be further from the truth! Anyone can become an artist and exhibit their work (or use it to decorate their home). In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to paint a picture and rock it. Painting a picture can be a perfect activity to eliminate stress, get rid of boredom or channel that dormant creativity. You don’t need to be an excellent painter to paint a picture.
But to get started, it is good to take into account the following tips:
Painting with watercolours
It is the most affordable type of paint, the simplest paint to use and the easiest to find. Watercolour paint is bought in boxes or tubes and comes in different colours, light and dark, bright or pastel.
Don’t be alarmed when you pour some of the paint on the palette and it looks thick and heavy. Everything changes when you wet the brush and put water on it. The idea is to make the paint clear and watery so it’s easier to spread on the canvas.
Even if it is the first time you are going to paint a picture with watercolours, we recommend that you use good quality material. Therefore, avoid products that are sold in school bookshops. Look for a shop that specialises in painting products.
Once you have tried the watercolours, you can vary the types of materials. We can use acrylics that are generally more versatile, oil paints. In addition, there is the option of using natural pigments, such as fruits, chalk, charcoal, ashes, herbs, etc.
Choosing brushes
When you go to the shop to buy a brush you find hundreds of options. Don’t despair. You will find the most suitable one for painting a picture, according to your tastes and your budget.
For watercolour, brushes with rounded tips are recommended. For synthetic acrylics use the flat tip brushes and for oils use the brushes known as “cat’s tongue”. As for the thickness of the brush, it will depend on what you want to paint, if you need precision, the size of the canvas, if you are going to fill the whole drawing with colour, etc.
Buy all the materials
In addition to brushes and paints, you will also need other materials to paint a picture. To start with, a good canvas of the size you want your painting to be. Opt for one that is framed if you are going to paint with oil or acrylics. There is also a special watercolour paper that prevents moisture from damaging the paint.
You will also need an easel to support the canvases: invest in a good quality one. That way, you will be able to use it for a long time to make several paintings. Another object you mustn’t forget is a palette or tray for painting. Choose one with a good surface that allows you to mix the colours on it.
Add extra elements
Everything we have mentioned above can be bought in a specialised shop. But there are other things that you may have at home or elsewhere waiting to be used. For example, choose clothes that can be stained without problems. Also, separate bowls or containers of water where you can clean your brushes. And finally, some sheets of paper or old cloths that you can put under the easel in case of paint splashes.
Start painting a picture
You already have everything you need to paint a picture. It’s time to get to work! Maybe to start with you want to copy some paintings you like or depict a landscape you see through the window or imagine. Or maybe you prefer more abstract drawings.
Sketch the painting with a pencil and use it as a guide if you don’t handle brushes very well yet. At first, you can make basic shapes, like a flower or a house, and paint them in one colour. With practice, you’ll be able to create more complex and colourful figures.
Painting a picture is great fun and could become that activity you needed to get rid of stress or enjoy your free time. Remember to be very careful with your materials and clean up after each session. You will feel more than proud of your creations. Let your imagination fly.
