Painting Rules – Essential Tips for Every Artist

Whether you work with oil, acrylic or watercolor, a few simple rules can save you hours of frustration. Below are the core ideas that work across all mediums and the specific tweaks you need for each type of paint.

Basic Rules for All Mediums

1. Plan Your Composition First. Sketch a quick layout before any paint touches the surface. A solid plan keeps proportions right and stops you from repainting large areas later.

2. Keep Your Workspace Organized. A tidy palette, clean brushes and a protected floor make it easier to see colors clearly and avoid accidental spills.

3. Test Colors on a Scrap. Before committing to a shade, dab it on a piece of scrap paper or canvas. This reveals how the pigment behaves once it dries and saves you from costly mistakes.

4. Work From Thin to Thick. Apply thin washes or glazes first, then layer thicker paint on top. This builds depth and prevents the canvas from cracking.

5. Respect Drying Times. Each medium dries at a different speed. Rushing a layer can cause muddy colors or flaking paint.

Medium‑Specific Tricks

Oil Painting: The "slow over fast" rule is a lifesaver. Let the first layer dry slightly before adding a slower‑drying layer on top. This prevents cracking and keeps the surface stable. Also, activate oil paint with the right medium—linseed oil or a modern solvent will improve flow without making the paint greasy.

Acrylic Painting: Acrylic dries fast, so mix a retarder if you need more working time. When you want a smooth blend, use a wet‑on‑wet approach right after the first wash. Acrylics also respond well to a quick “scrubbing” technique—brush lightly over a still‑wet area to create texture without overworking the paint.

Watercolor: Rolling watercolor paintings can work, but only if the paper is fully dried and you use a sturdy tube. Otherwise the fibers may crinkle. For most pieces, store them flat in a flat file or roll them loosely with a protective sheet. When you need to ship a watercolor, flatten it with a heavy book for a few days before packing.

Choosing Between Acrylic and Oil for Portraits: If you need fast results, acrylic is easier—drying in minutes versus days. Oil gives richer blending and a subtle glow, perfect for lifelike skin tones, but it requires patience and proper ventilation.

Remember, rules are guides, not prison bars. Feel free to experiment after you’ve mastered the basics. Try a quick watercolor wash, then add a thin oil glaze once the paper is dry—many artists blend mediums for unique effects.

Finally, keep a notebook of what works and what doesn’t. Jot down the ratio of medium to paint, drying times, and any surprising results. Over time you’ll develop a personal set of rules that fit your style and speed.

Follow these painting rules, adjust them as you grow, and watch your art improve faster than you thought possible.