Painting Techniques & Tips

The proper application of the skill in accomplishing a task is known as technique. The techniques adopted in finishing the paintings are called as Paintings techniques. Generally techniques are essential for the fulfillment of any challenging task. The steps followed in the initial process of paintings are Indirect painting and Direct painting.

The procedure followed in indirect painting is to obtain good visual appearance by the development of several layers of the paint. Oil paintings were made by using three layers technique.

First, the layer is made up of one color such as Gamblin which has mirror like appearance. The painters were advised to use Gamsol odorless mineral spirits and a little amount of Galkyd Lite for thinning of the layer.

Translucent colors are used for developing the middle layer in addition to the radiant colors. Richness is imparted to the surface of the opaque layer by transforming it in to fine glaze layer which is made possible by Zinc White.

In general, all the painting mediums are considered to be very thick. The method of painting from dark surface to light surface is known as Leonardo method and from light surface to dark surface is Rubens method.

The step followed in direct painting is, only once the paint is applied properly and correctly. Planning is the fundamental step in direct painting due to the involvement of selection of color and shape simultaneously. To achieve light to dark surface, with the help of the brush long stroke marks are made and then short mark is made.

Scumbling is acquired by dry brush and scrubbing is done in different directions. In some of the fields dual method of painting is used, to get the desired effect.

The other techniques involved in the paintings are given as follows. Texture is obtained by the application of thick layers. The glaze of color that refines the surface before the application of painting is known as Imprimatura. Light areas are glazed with the shadows. The surface transformation from light surface to dark surface is achieved very slowly with the help of transitions. Also paintings are done with Gamblin Radiant colors. The term Ground is used in oil painting. The aesthetic appearance to the surface is achieved by varnishing process. These are some of the basics of paintings technique.

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