How to Use Oil Paint: A Straight‑Forward Guide

If you’ve ever stared at a tube of oil paint and wondered where to start, you’re not alone. Oil paint can seem messy, but with a few simple habits you’ll be creating smooth, rich colors in no time.

First, gather the essentials. You need good quality oil paints, a few brushes (a flat for washes, a round for detail), a primed canvas or panel, palette oil (like linseed), a palette knife, and a solvent such as odorless mineral spirits. A rag or paper towel for wiping brushes and a jar for cleaning up complete the kit.

Prep Your Surface

Even a cheap canvas works if it’s primed. If you’re using raw canvas, apply a thin coat of gesso and let it dry completely. This stops the paint from soaking straight into the fibers and gives you a smoother surface to work on.

Next, set up your palette. Squeeze out a small amount of each color you plan to use – you don’t need a rainbow, just the basics: titanium white, cadmium red, ultramarine blue, yellow ochre, and burnt umber. Mixing from a limited palette helps you learn how colors interact.

Mixing and Applying Paint

Oil paint is thick, so add a drop of linseed oil to make it more fluid. Start with a “lean” mixture (more solvent, less oil) for the first layers. As you build up the painting, gradually add more oil – this is the classic “fat over lean” rule that keeps the layers from cracking later.

Apply the first layer loosely. Don’t worry about details; focus on blocking in shapes and values. Once it dries (usually a day or two depending on thickness), add richer, more buttery layers on top. Use the palette knife to scrape in texture or blend colors directly on the canvas for a smoother transition.

When you’re working on fine details, a small round brush works best. Load the tip with a dab of paint and use light, controlled strokes. If a line looks too heavy, lift it with a clean, dry brush or a little solvent.

Remember to step back frequently. A short break lets your eyes reset and shows you where the composition needs adjusting.

When you’ve finished, clean your brushes promptly. Swirl them in a jar of mineral spirits, then rinse with soap and warm water. Wipe them dry and store them upright to keep the bristles from bending.

Finally, let the painting cure. Even if it looks dry on the surface, the underlying layers keep drying for weeks. Store the work flat in a dust‑free area, and consider applying a final varnish after a month to protect the colors.

With these steps – proper supplies, surface prep, the fat‑over‑lean rule, and good brush care – you’ll find oil paint less intimidating and more enjoyable. Grab a tube, set up your workspace, and start experimenting. The best way to learn is by doing, so don’t wait for perfection; just paint and have fun.