Category: Painting

20 Jul, 2025

How to Activate Oil Paint: Solvents, Mediums, and Painter’s Secrets

by Alaric Westcombe | Jul, 20 2025 | | 0 Comments

Explore what actually activates oil paint. Discover which solvents and mediums work best, plus practical tips and fun facts for every oil painter.

11 Jul, 2025

Slow Over Fast Rule in Oil Painting: Essential Techniques for Brilliant Results

by Alaric Westcombe | Jul, 11 2025 | | 0 Comments

Understanding the 'slow over fast' rule is key for oil painters. Learn how this technique impacts paint drying, layer stability, and your masterpiece's longevity.

10 Jul, 2025

Best Colors for Portraits: Expert Tips for Choosing the Right Hue

by Alaric Westcombe | Jul, 10 2025 | | 0 Comments

Find out which colors look best in portraits, whether for photos or paintings. Get expert advice, surprising facts, and easy-to-use tips to make your portraits pop.

6 Jul, 2025

Scrubbing Technique in Painting: A Step-by-Step Guide to Art's Textural Secret

by Alaric Westcombe | Jul, 6 2025 | | 0 Comments

Learn what the scrubbing technique in art really means, how artists use it for texture, and tips for mastering this simple but powerful tool in your paintings.

19 Jun, 2025

Oil Painting Techniques: The Three Rules Every Artist Needs

by Alaric Westcombe | Jun, 19 2025 | | 0 Comments

Oil painting can be intimidating, but really, it all comes down to three simple rules. This article breaks down what they are, why you should care, and how following them makes your artwork last longer and look better. Get tips, relatable stories, and practical advice for each rule. Save your paintings from common mistakes and turn frustration into creativity. Whether you're a curious beginner or brushing up your skills, these rules keep your art game strong.

8 Jun, 2025

Acrylic vs Oil: Which Is Easier for Portrait Painting?

by Alaric Westcombe | Jun, 8 2025 | | 0 Comments

Discover whether acrylic or oil paint makes portrait painting easier. This guide lays out the strengths and quirks of both mediums, comparing drying time, blending, layering, and common mistakes. Learn what to expect as a beginner or hobbyist, and pick up some practical tricks along the way. No sugarcoating—just honest help for artists facing the easel.

30 May, 2025

What Oil Paint Did Van Gogh Use? Unpacking His Artistic Tools

by Alaric Westcombe | May, 30 2025 | | 0 Comments

Curious about the exact oil paints Van Gogh used? This article digs into the real brands, pigments, and quirky choices behind his bold masterpieces. Learn why the paint mattered, how it shaped his technique, and what makes his materials so fascinating to artists today. You'll pick up practical tips on choosing modern equivalents if you want to paint like Van Gogh. Get the facts and stories that bring his art supplies to life.

29 May, 2025

What Does a Good Portrait Look Like? Breaking Down Portrait Painting

by Alaric Westcombe | May, 29 2025 | | 0 Comments

Ever wonder what makes a portrait stand out? This article digs into what separates a good portrait from a forgettable one. We'll talk about the things pro painters watch for, like capturing emotion and using color smartly. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but there are a few clear signs when you’re looking at an effective portrait. If you ever wanted to paint—or just understand—better portraits, you’ll find useful, down-to-earth info here.

11 May, 2025

Why is Watercoloring So Hard? Honest Truths and Handy Fixes

by Alaric Westcombe | May, 11 2025 | | 0 Comments

Watercolor painting looks simple, but most people struggle with it right from the start. The paint runs wild, the paper wrinkles, and colors don't always blend the way you expect. This article unpacks why watercoloring can be so tough and what makes it trickier than other media. You'll find concrete tips to help you relax and actually enjoy the process, plus a few facts about how pros handle common mistakes. Time to put those fears about watercolor to rest.

2 May, 2025

Smearing Technique in Oil Painting: What It Is and How to Use It

by Alaric Westcombe | May, 2 2025 | | 0 Comments

This article unpacks the smearing technique in oil painting—what it is, how artists use it, why it matters, and how you can start practicing it. Learn when smearing makes sense, what tools help get that smooth finish, and get clever tips to avoid turning your canvas into a muddy mess. Perfect for both beginners and anyone looking to expand their painting toolkit. Discover secrets from pros and how smearing can make your paintings pop.

25 Apr, 2025

How to Make Your Portrait Painting More Interesting: Simple Tweaks for Big Impact

by Alaric Westcombe | Apr, 25 2025 | | 0 Comments

Bored with how your portrait paintings look? This article shares practical ways to add interest and depth so your work grabs attention. Learn which techniques actually make a difference, how to mix things up with composition or lighting, and real tricks that pro artists use to keep their portraits fresh. It's packed with straightforward tips that anyone can try—no need to be a genius. You'll find hands-on advice to turn plain faces into something special.

24 Apr, 2025

Watercolor Painting Disadvantages: Why It's Not Always Easy

by Alaric Westcombe | Apr, 24 2025 | | 0 Comments

Watercolor painting comes with its own set of challenges, from tricky mistakes to the unpredictability of the medium. This article explores the downsides that make watercolor hard for both beginners and experienced artists. You'll find out why controlling water and color can be a headache and get real-life tips to handle common pitfalls. Learn about the unique quirks of watercolor paper and how they can mess up your work. If you've been frustrated by watercolors or just want to know what to expect, this is for you.