how to paint in oil

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of painting in oil, making it accessible for beginners with no prior experience. Using the techniques demonstrated in the video by Mark Carder, you'll learn how to set up your workspace, select materials, and apply oil paints for stunning results.

Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace

Creating an efficient workspace is essential for oil painting. Follow these tips to prepare:

• Choose a Well-Lit Area: Natural light is ideal, so set up near a window if possible.
• Gather Supplies: Ensure you have the following:
  • Oil paints
  • Brushes (various sizes)
  • Palette for mixing colors
  • Canvas or painting surface
  • Rags or paper towels for cleaning
  • Odorless mineral spirits for cleaning brushes and thinning paint
• Organize Your Supplies: Keep everything within reach to maintain your flow while painting.

Step 2: Select Your Colors

Understanding color mixing is crucial for oil painting. Here’s how to choose and prepare your palette:

• Basic Palette: Start with a limited palette including:
  • Titanium White
  • Cadmium Yellow
  • Cadmium Red
  • Ultramarine Blue
  • Burnt Umber
• Mixing Colors: Use the palette to create secondary colors or shades:
  • Combine primary colors to create secondary ones (e.g., yellow + blue = green).
  • Experiment with mixing to find the right hue for your painting.

Step 3: Apply the First Layer

Applying paint correctly sets the foundation for your artwork. Follow these steps:

• Use a Thin Layer: Start with a thin layer of paint, known as the “underpainting.” This helps to establish values and shapes.
• Brush Techniques:
  • Use a large brush for broad strokes and background.
  • Switch to smaller brushes for details.
• Let It Dry: Allow the underpainting to dry before adding additional layers.

Step 4: Build Up Layers

Oil painting thrives on layering. Here’s how to proceed:

• Fat Over Lean Principle: Always apply thicker (fat) paint over thinner (lean) layers to prevent cracking.
• Details and Textures: Gradually add more details and textures with each layer, using smaller brushes for precision.
• Blending: Use a clean brush to blend colors where necessary, creating smooth transitions.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finishing your painting will enhance its overall appearance:

• Highlights: Add highlights with lighter colors to areas where light hits the subject.
• Refinement: Step back and assess your painting. Make adjustments and refine any areas that need improvement.
• Varnishing: Once dry, consider applying a varnish to protect your artwork and enhance its colors.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we've covered the essential steps to start painting in oil, from setting up your workspace to applying layers and finishing touches. Remember, practice is key to improving your skills. Don’t hesitate to explore further resources or consider taking a class for more in-depth learning. Happy painting!