Steps involved in creating an oil painting

Have you ever wondered if what you know about portrait painting is accurate? Consider the following paragraphs and compare what you know to the latest info on portrait painting.


The usage of fabric

Even before starting to make the portrait painting, the artist will select the type of fabric to be used. Preferred materials include linen, although cotton remains a less costly alternative. Many other artists prefer to use good quality wood for this purpose.

Priming the canvas

Next comes the stage of priming the canvas before making a portrait from photo. While earlier the procedure comprised of using glue obtained from rabbit skin, these days most artists use white priming material. Several gesso layers are applied onto the canva, interspersed with sanding after each layer dries. You can tone up the gesso according to a desired color, but if you buy it from the store it will usually be white. This tends to look best for creation of portraits from photo.

Truthfully, the only difference between you and portrait painting experts is time. If you'll invest a little more time in reading, you'll be that much nearer to expert status when it comes to portrait painting.

Sketching and filling

Finally after preparation of the canvas is completed, the next step is the process of sketching the outline. This step is especially important if you wish to create a portrait from photo, as it requires fine detailing. Then once the outline is defined, you can apply the pigment onto the surface. Mix it with oil to provide maximum finish and effect in the portrait from photo. You can use brushes manufactured with diverse fibers in order to provide different brush stroke effects on the painting.

You could also use a palette knife which is used for removing the extra paint on the canvas. You could use even your fingers to apply the paint if you are feeling very adventurous! Many famous artists have been known to use materials like sponges, rags and even cotton swabs!


The day will come when you can use something you read about here to have a beneficial impact. Then you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about portrait painting.

About the author:
Jana L. Ames http://www.anythingpaintedoncanvas.com

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