Tutorials
Tutorials
A how-to or a how to is an informal, often short, description of how to accomplish some specific task. A how-to is generally meant to help non-experts so we may leave out details that are only important to experts, and may also be greatly simplified from an overall discussion of the topic.
If you are an expert and would like to contribute some pearls of wisdom, then please get in touch because we would welcome your input.
Useful tip for Enlarging Your Brush Handles
Saturday, 10 January 2009 20:01 by Joan du Plessis
When using small brushes, the tiny handles are sometimes rather difficult to grip. Try this trick to solve the problem and give you a firmer hold.
Painting Dynamic Skies in Watercolour
Saturday, 10 January 2009 19:59 by Joan
Clouds are often a vital part of a landscape either as a complementary part of a beautiful landscape or even as the focal point. In the latter case the horizon should be painted two thirds down the page and the landscape painted in simple fashion. Never paint the horizon through the middle of the paper!
Learn to Loosen Up Your Painting
Saturday, 10 January 2009 19:56 by Joan
Painting in a loose way can bring inspiring works to the fore as they are usually unfussy but also depict the subject matter in a simple way which can be so appealing to the eye. For example a tree does not have to have every branch and leaf painted to make a good painting!
Good Drawings lead to Good Paintings
Saturday, 10 January 2009 19:52 by Joan
Light and shade in the correct variance can make a very good painting from a well drawn sketch that has had thought and planning behind it. As anyone who paints from Nature knows, the light changes usually more quickly than the time needed to finish the painting. It is a good idea to make quick sketches of the viewpoint and mark in the shadow areas.
Further notes on using a Sketchbook!
Saturday, 10 January 2009 19:47 by Joan
As a follow on from the previous article on ‘Keeping a Sketchbook’ here are some ideas on working from your sketches!
To capture the moment with a few lines done rapidly takes practice but can be invaluable to producing a good painting even if you do not use much from the sketches in the final work.
If you are using the handy spiral bound pads which fold back on themselves, remember they can also be used opened out flat using both sides of the spiral wire for one sketch. 4B-8B pencils are ideal as they give bold lines and can denote dark areas well.