Oiling out is a technique that can help you achieve a smooth and vibrant surface in your painting. Many times while working in oils, the painting will dry unevenly which makes it difficult to see what you're working on. So whether you're a beginner or a seasoned painter, oiling out can be a valuable step in your painting process. In this article, we'll go over the basics of oiling out a painting, what to consider, and how to do it. So, what is oiling out? Simply put, oiling out is the process of applying a thin layer of oil, usually a medium or solvent, to a dried layer of oil paint to make i ..read more

Are you looking to add a touch of elegance and personality to your home decor with canvas art, but unsure of how to hang it? Well, you've come to the right place. In this article, I'll be covering all the tips and tricks that you need to successfully hang canvas art in your home or office, no matter the size or weight. From selecting the right hanging hardware, having the right tools, to measuring and marking your wall, I'll guide you step-by-step through the process. Whether you're a seasoned decorator or just starting out, I'll share the tools you need to create a beautiful an ..read more

Palette knives are versatile tools used to create a variety of effects in both oil and acrylic painting. Palette knives come in all different shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific purpose. Whether you're looking to create smooth, even layers, or textured, impasto effects, there's a palette knife that can help you achieve your desired look. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different styles of palette knives available, what each shape is used for, and any additional tips. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, incorporating palette k ..read more

Whether you're an artist looking to sell their first drawing or have been selling your paintings for years, but are looking for ways to go full-time, this article is for you. I think the easiest way to go about this is to break it into two parts. First, we'll go over the basics and then I'll walk you through the things I think are the most impactful for marketing your art in today's world. The basic steps for marketing artwork If you're an artist just starting out and looking to sell your original artworks and prints, there are a few basic steps you can take to market yourself both ..read more

Oil painting is one of the most enjoyable mediums to paint in and is a popular medium for several reasons. However when working in oils, it's important to understand what the risks are and what things make for a safely-equipped studio. Oil painting is often combined with the use of solvents, flammable materials, and chemicals. To minimize any risks from exposure to these materials, it is crucial to take certain precautions. By following just a few best practices for studio safety, artists can focus more on their artwork and less on worrying about their health.  What s ..read more

You're browsing through the brushes at the art store and become overwhelmed by all the types available. Don't sweat it, we've all been there. The biggest category you might notice however, is natural hair bristle brushes and synthetic bristle brushes, which is what we'll go over in this article. Both of these paint brushes have their own unique qualities and work great in different situations, so let's break down what they are. An overview of natural vs synthetic brushes Natural hair bristle brushes are made from the hair of animals such as sable, squirrel, and hog. These types of b ..read more

One of the most common questions I get regarding acrylic paint is whether to use heavy or soft body. Now, the answer to that is mostly going to depend on what you are specifically after in your artwork, but knowing what to expect out of each paint is key. There are also fluid acrylics, so what about those? In this article, we'll go through the differences of acrylic paint types, what to expect, and what options there are to buy. Let's get into it... An overview of acrylic paint types Acrylic paints come in what I consider to be three basic types for fine art painting. These are what you will ..read more

Oil painting mediums can be a little overwhelming due to the sheer number of them available. What are they even? Well, they are additives that come in all types and are added to oil paint in order to change the working properties and behavior. While mediums can be useful for achieving certain effects and making the paint easier to work with, they also have their drawbacks. In this article, we'll discuss the arguments for and against using mediums in oil paintings, including the ways in which they can change the properties of the paint, the potential impact on color and fini ..read more

Owning an original painting can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to not forget about caring for it. In this article we'll go over the basics for cleaning and conserving both acrylic and oil paintings. Tips for caring for original artworks Properly caring for an original painting is important to maintain its condition and value over time. Below are some tips that you should be aware of when it comes to caring for original acrylic and oil paintings: Caring for Oil & Acrylic paintings: First and foremost, ALWAYS avoid using solvents or abrasive materials. Avoid exposing ..read more

What is acrylic paint and where did it come from? In this article we're going to go over the history of acrylics and why artists use them today in their artwork. A brief history Acrylic paint is a relatively new medium in the world of art, compared to traditional mediums such as oil and watercolor. The history of acrylic paint can be traced back to the early 20th century, when scientists and artists began experimenting with new synthetic polymers as a medium for paint. The first acrylic paint was developed in the 1930s by the German chemical company, BASF and it was patented by Rohm and ..read more