Here are some random acrylic painting pointers I've picked up along the way:1. Acrylics dry fast. Know what you want to do before you lay down the paint or you'll be readjusting later.
2. There is a difference between opaque pigments and transparent ones. Know the strengths and weaknesses of both.
3. Surface preparation is important and takes time. Plan for this.
4. Don't worry about making mistakes, acrylics are easy to fix. You can always paint gesso over a section, or use rubbing alcohol to remove dried paint.
5. Varnishes are beautiful and protective but flatten the original paint's qualities. I like showing which strokes are shiny and which are matte. Spray fixative can provide some protection.
6. Signing a long name in a small brush is difficult. I sign each painting with FW Ink and a dip pen. It is still acrylic, is permanent and makes way for a beautiful signature.
7. Have lots of tools at your disposal. Don't be afraid to drop a large brush in favor of a kitchen sponge to cover large areas. And a palette knife is a good friend. (I prefer natural bristle brushes over synthetic for more textural expression).
8. Keep your brushes clean. Don't leave them in the water or they deteriorate quicker. Continually clean them as you work lest the paint dry on your brushes.
9. Remember to step away from your canvas/board and look at your painting in different types of light. You'll see things you didn't up close.
10. Learn the color wheel and make use of it. Different brands of acrylics have different properties. An ultramarine in one brand looks different than another. Remember this when painting.
IMAGE CREDIT: A close-up of Bethany painting her artwork "Taking Chances" ©2009 Bethany Vanderputten.
Thank you- this is very helpful for a novice like me!
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