Dear Lykkers, stepping into the world of oil painting can be incredibly exciting — especially when masterpieces like "Wheatfield with Crows" or "Girl with a Pearl Earring" come to mind.
These works seem impossible at first, but every journey begins with learning and curiosity. If the goal is to improve gradually and avoid frustrating mistakes, you're in the right place.
Here's a straightforward guide with 10 essential tips to help you begin oil painting with joy, confidence, and progress.
Master the Essentials of Oil Painting
Start with High-Quality Paints
All oil paints are not the same. Beginning with poor-quality colors can block progress and discourage experimentation.
There's no need to purchase the most expensive brands, but it’s wise to choose reliable ones like Maimeri, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Schmincke, or Winsor & Newton. Start with a beginner set and expand based on your needs.
Select the Right Brushes
Using the proper brush makes a huge difference. Choose brushes specifically designed for oil painting, such as those from Winsor & Newton, Rosemary & Co., or Raphael. These brands offer high-quality options that hold color well and provide precision, whether you prefer natural or synthetic bristles.
Don't Use Paint Straight from the Tube
Most oil paints are produced with intense pigmentation. This helps artists create a wide range of shades. However, these saturated colors rarely match the real-world tones. Mixing and adjusting them before use will result in more natural, balanced results.
Avoid Overmixing
While mixing is important, combining too many colors can lead to dull or muddy results. Be intentional: plan the color you want and stick to a small number of base colors in the blend. Trial and error will help develop a better sense of harmony.
Set Up Smartly for the Best Results
Try Painting on Paper
Though canvas is the traditional support, special paper designed for oil painting exists and is very useful for practice. Blocks like Fabriano’s canvas-textured paper, Arches Huile, or Canson Figueras allow you to sketch, test color combinations, or create small versions of a larger painting before working on canvas.
Use the Right Mediums and Solvents
Avoid common mistakes like using strong cleaning agents to thin the paint. Specialized diluents such as linseed oil or turpentine are better suited for blending and softening oil colors. For brush cleaning, consider using odorless, non-toxic products specifically made for this purpose.
Understand the Use of White
The white in a tube is rarely the white seen in real-life objects. Depending on its surroundings, “white” might lean warm or cool. Mixing it with small amounts of yellow, red, blue, or green can help achieve the exact tone needed. Keep in mind that different whites (titanium, zinc, etc.) behave differently on canvas.
Start with a Clear, Light Drawing
Sketching lightly with charcoal or a soft pencil can guide your painting without leaving unwanted marks. Pressing hard or using a sharp graphite pencil can leave deep grooves that show through even thick layers of paint. You can also block in major shapes with a neutral paint layer to refine composition before applying details.
Build a Calm, Prepared Workflow
Prepare Your Palette Before You Begin
To stay focused, pre-mix some of the key colors before picking up your brush. This keeps the flow going and minimizes interruptions. Use a limited palette — maybe five base colors — and create variations through mixing. Over time, it becomes easier to predict what tones will be needed.
Take Your Time
Oil painting isn’t about speed. Each layer takes time to dry. Rushing may lead to smudging or surface damage. Let layers settle before adding glazes or highlights, and wait before applying any protective varnish. Patience allows techniques like blending and layering to truly shine.
Summary
Oil painting is a rewarding form of expression that anyone can enjoy, especially with the right tools, methods, and mindset. Dear Lykkers, with practice and smart habits, it's possible to grow from basic sketches to truly compelling works.
By starting with quality materials, setting up thoughtfully, and painting with care, even beginners can achieve beautiful results. Let these tips guide the way — and enjoy each colorful step of the journey!
