Gesso and Oil Paint Guide: Beginner Tips [US Edition]

Gesso is a foundational medium for oil painting, providing a crucial surface for artists in studios across the United States. Applying gesso correctly ensures your oil paint layers adhere properly, preventing issues like cracking or peeling over time. The quality of the gesso impacts the longevity and vibrancy of your artwork. Winsor & Newton, a well-known art supply manufacturer, offers a range of gesso products suitable for various surfaces. Mastering the use of gesso and oil paint is essential for any beginner artist looking to create lasting and professional-looking pieces.

Embarking on Your Oil Painting Adventure

Welcome, fellow art enthusiasts! The realm of oil painting awaits, a world brimming with rich colors, captivating textures, and the timeless allure that has captivated artists for centuries.

If you’re just beginning your artistic journey, prepare to be inspired. This guide will walk you through the essentials.

The Enduring Allure of Oil Paint

Oil painting holds a special place in the art world. Its unique qualities offer a range of possibilities unmatched by other mediums.

The slow drying time allows for seamless blending and subtle gradations. This offers a depth and realism that is hard to achieve with quicker-drying paints.

The rich pigmentation and buttery consistency of oil paints result in vibrant colors. The colors remain luminous and true for generations, making it a beloved medium for artists seeking lasting beauty.

The Foundation of Success: Preparation is Key

Before you squeeze out your first drop of paint, it’s important to lay the groundwork for success. Proper preparation is the cornerstone of any great oil painting, regardless of your skill level.

Taking the time to gather the right materials and organize your workspace will save you frustration. It will also set the stage for a smoother, more enjoyable creative experience.

Setting Up Your Workspace

Think of your workspace as an extension of your artistic mind. It is important to arrange it in a way that sparks creativity.

Ensure you have ample natural or artificial light. This will allow you to accurately see the colors you are mixing.

Keep your materials within easy reach. This will minimize distractions and maintain your focus on the artwork itself.

Embrace the Learning Curve: Patience and Persistence

The world of oil painting can seem daunting at first, but don’t be discouraged! Every master was once a beginner.

Approach the learning process with patience, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment.

There will be moments of frustration, but embrace them as opportunities for growth. Every brushstroke, every color mix, and every finished painting is a step forward on your artistic path.

Remember, the goal is not perfection, but progress and the joy of creating. So, take a deep breath, gather your supplies, and prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating world of oil painting. Let the adventure begin!

Essential Oil Painting Supplies: Building Your Artistic Toolkit

Now that we’re eager to embark on our oil painting adventure, the next crucial step is gathering the essential tools. Think of it as preparing your palette for a symphony of colors! Let’s explore the core materials you’ll need to start, understanding the purpose of each and selecting beginner-friendly options that won’t break the bank.

The Foundation: Preparing Your Surface

Gesso: The Unsung Hero

Before you even think about squeezing paint onto your canvas, you need to talk to about Gesso.

Gesso is a primer, usually white, that creates a suitable surface for the oil paint to adhere to.

Think of it as creating the perfect ‘tooth’ or slight texture for the paint to grip onto. Without gesso, the oil paint could sink into the canvas, leading to dull colors and potential damage to the fabric over time.

Gesso seals the canvas, preventing the oil from the paint from seeping in and potentially rotting away the fibers.

Acrylic Gesso vs. Ready-Made Canvases

You’ll typically find Acrylic Gesso, which is water-based and easy to clean up. Ready-made canvases are pre-primed with gesso, which is a convenient option for beginners!

But learning to apply your own gesso gives you greater control over the surface texture.

For beginner-friendly brands, Liquitex and Golden are excellent choices known for their quality and consistency.

Bringing Color to Life: Oil Paints

Artist Grade vs. Student Grade

Navigating the world of oil paints can be a little overwhelming at first. You’ll encounter "Artist Grade" and "Student Grade" options.

Artist-grade paints have a higher pigment concentration, resulting in richer, more vibrant colors and greater lightfastness (resistance to fading).

Student-grade paints use less pigment and more fillers, making them more affordable but potentially less vibrant.

For starting out, student-grade paints are perfectly acceptable for practice and experimentation.

Linseed Oil Based Paints: A Classic Choice

Linseed oil-based paints are a common starting point. They offer good workability and blending properties.

Essential Starter Colors

To begin, you don’t need every color under the sun!

Focus on a limited palette of essential colors that you can mix to create a wide range of hues.

Some must-haves include:

• Titanium White: An opaque white, great for mixing and highlights.
• Ivory Black: A cool, deep black for shadows and creating muted tones.
• Cadmium Red: A vibrant, warm red.
• Ultramarine Blue: A deep, intense blue.

As you progress, you can expand your palette with yellows, greens, and other colors to suit your artistic needs.

Recommended Brands

Winsor & Newton and Gamblin are reputable brands offering both student and artist-grade paints. They are known for their quality and wide range of colors.

The Support: Choosing Your Canvas

Why Canvas?

Canvas has long been a favored surface for oil painting.

Its textured surface provides a good grip for the paint, and it offers a degree of flexibility.

Stretched Canvas vs. Canvas Panels

You’ll find two main types of canvases: stretched canvas and canvas panels.

Stretched canvases are stretched over a wooden frame, offering a traditional look and feel.

Canvas panels are glued to a rigid board, making them more affordable and easier to store.

Both are great options for beginners!

Applying the Paint: Brushes and Palette Knives

Paint Brushes

Paint brushes come in a huge array of shapes and sizes, each suited to different purposes.

You can purchase assorted sets to get a feel for which brushes you prefer.

Palette Knives/Painting Knives

Palette knives are primarily used for mixing paint on the palette.

Painting knives can also be used to apply paint to the canvas in interesting textures.

The Mixing Station: Paint Palette

A paint palette serves as your mixing station, providing a flat surface to combine colors and create the perfect shades.

Clean Up: Container and Rags

You’ll need containers to hold mediums and for cleaning your brushes.

Rags or paper towels are crucial for wiping brushes and cleaning up spills.

Emphasize the importance of rags and paper towels for cleanup.

With these essential supplies in hand, you’re now equipped to begin your oil painting journey! Each tool plays a vital role in bringing your artistic vision to life.

Priming Your Canvas: Preparing the Foundation

With your essential supplies gathered, it’s time to prepare your canvas – the very stage upon which your artistic vision will unfold. Priming might seem like a mundane task, but trust me, it’s an absolutely crucial step that can significantly impact the longevity and quality of your oil paintings. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a sturdy building; a solid foundation ensures lasting beauty.

Why Priming is Essential

Priming your canvas with gesso serves two vital purposes: creating tooth and sealing the support. "Tooth" refers to the slight texture that gesso provides, allowing the oil paint to grip the canvas effectively. Without this tooth, the paint might slide around or not adhere properly, leading to frustrating results.

More crucially, the gesso layer seals the canvas preventing the oil from seeping into the fibers of the fabric. Oil paint contains acids that can eventually rot the canvas if it comes into direct contact. Priming acts as a protective barrier, preserving your artwork for years to come.

Step-by-Step Guide to Priming with Gesso

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to priming your canvas like a pro:

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need your canvas, gesso, a wide, soft brush (or a palette knife for a smoother finish), a container of water, and some paper towels.

2. Prepare Your Workspace: Cover your work surface with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect it from stray gesso.

3. Apply the First Coat: Dip your brush into the gesso and apply a thin, even coat to the entire canvas. Work in one direction, overlapping each brushstroke slightly. Avoid applying the gesso too thickly, as this can create unwanted texture.

4. Let it Dry: Allow the first coat of gesso to dry completely. The drying time will vary depending on the humidity and temperature, but it usually takes a few hours.

5. Apply a Second Coat (Optional): For added protection and a smoother surface, you can apply a second coat of gesso. Apply it in the opposite direction of the first coat. Let dry completely.

Tips for Drying Time and Sanding

Patience is key when it comes to drying time. Resist the urge to start painting before the gesso is completely dry, as this can cause the paint to crack or peel later on.

Once the gesso is completely dry, you can gently sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper for an ultra-smooth finish. This step is optional but highly recommended if you desire a flawless painting surface. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as you don’t want to remove the gesso layer entirely.

With your canvas properly primed, you’re now ready to embark on the exciting journey of applying color and bringing your artistic visions to life!

Basic Oil Painting Techniques: Getting Started with Color

With your essential supplies gathered and your canvas prepped and primed, you’re now on the exciting cusp of applying color and bringing your artistic ideas to life. This section will introduce you to some fundamental oil painting techniques.

Consider this your starting point, your launchpad for experimenting and developing your unique style. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they are invaluable learning opportunities!

Mastering the Art of Color Mixing on a Paint Palette

The ability to mix colors effectively is the cornerstone of oil painting. It’s how you unlock the full spectrum of possibilities and achieve the specific hues you envision for your artwork.

Start with a limited palette of essential colors: Titanium White, Ivory Black, Cadmium Red, Ultramarine Blue, and perhaps a yellow like Cadmium Yellow Light. These are the building blocks for a vast array of colors.

Always use a palette knife to mix your colors. Start with a small amount of each pigment and gradually blend them together.

Clean your palette knife after each mix to avoid contaminating future colors. Take your time and observe the subtle changes as you combine different pigments.

Applying Paint to the Canvas: Brushstrokes and Beyond

Once you’ve mixed your desired color, the next step is to apply it to the canvas. The way you apply the paint – your brushstrokes – can dramatically impact the look and feel of your painting.

Experiment with different brushes and techniques:

• Smooth, blended strokes: Use a soft brush and gentle pressure to create seamless transitions between colors.

• Textured, expressive strokes: Use a stiffer brush and more pressure to create visible brushstrokes that add character and energy to your painting.

• Dabbing and stippling: Use the tip of the brush to create small, dot-like marks that can add texture and detail.

Don’t be afraid to play around and discover what works best for you!

A Glimpse into Underpainting

Underpainting is a technique where you create a monochrome or limited-color base layer before applying your final colors. This layer serves as a tonal map, helping you establish the values (lights and darks) of your painting and the composition itself.

A common approach is to use a burnt umber or raw sienna wash to create a value sketch on your canvas.

While not strictly necessary for beginners, exploring underpainting can significantly improve the depth and realism of your work.

Layering and the "Fat Over Lean" Rule

Oil paint dries slowly, which allows you to work in layers, building up color and detail over time. However, it’s crucial to follow the "fat over lean" rule to ensure the longevity of your paintings.

"Fat" refers to paint that contains more oil, and "lean" refers to paint with less oil. Each subsequent layer should have a higher oil content than the one beneath it. This allows each layer to dry properly.

Failure to follow this rule can lead to cracking and other issues over time.

Impasto and Glazing: Advanced Techniques for Later Exploration

As you progress, you might want to explore more advanced techniques such as Impasto and Glazing.

Impasto involves applying paint thickly, creating a textured surface that catches the light in interesting ways.

Glazing involves applying thin, transparent layers of paint over dried underlayers to create luminous effects.

These techniques require more practice and understanding of oil paint properties, but they can add incredible depth and richness to your work. For now, focus on the fundamentals, and come back to these techniques as you gain experience!

Key Concepts for Oil Painting: Understanding the Fundamentals

With your essential supplies gathered and your canvas prepped and primed, you’re now on the exciting cusp of applying color and bringing your artistic ideas to life. This section will introduce you to some fundamental oil painting techniques.

Consider this your starting point, your launchpad, if you will, into the vast landscape of oil painting. But before we dive deeper into techniques, let’s pause to consider a few key concepts. These aren’t just technicalities; they’re the underlying principles that separate a good painting from a truly captivating one. Understanding them will elevate your work and give you a deeper appreciation for the craft.

The Power of Value in Oil Painting

Value, in art terms, refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. It’s often one of the most overlooked aspects, especially by beginners, but it is absolutely crucial for creating depth, form, and a sense of realism in your paintings.

Think of it this way: even a painting done entirely in shades of gray can be incredibly compelling if the values are well-executed. This is because value is what defines the shapes and contours of objects, suggesting how light interacts with them.

How Value Creates Depth and Form

Value creates depth and form through contrast. Areas of high contrast, where light meets dark abruptly, tend to come forward in a painting. Conversely, areas with subtle value changes recede into the background.

By carefully controlling the values in your painting, you can create the illusion of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. Light colors also trick the eye into coming forward, while darks will do the opposite.

Value as a Guide to Color Selection

Consider that the goal is not always to create the most ‘accurate’ color for each area in your painting. The purpose is to capture the value most effectively to achieve the desired effect of depth and light.

In some situations, choosing a color that is actually a lighter shade than the real-world color may be more effective at portraying realism, form, and dimension, if that’s what the subject calls for.

Practicing Value Studies

A great way to improve your understanding of value is to practice value studies. These are small paintings or drawings done in grayscale, focusing solely on capturing the values of a scene.

You can use a photograph as reference or set up a still life with simple objects. By removing color from the equation, you can focus on the relationship between light and shadow and how they define form.

Understanding Archival Quality in Oil Painting

Archival quality refers to the ability of a painting to last for a long time without significant deterioration. Oil paintings have a reputation for longevity, but achieving true archival quality requires careful attention to materials and techniques.

You’d want the time, effort, and love put into your work to last a lifetime, right?

Importance of Quality Materials

The quality of your materials plays a significant role in archival quality. Using artist-grade paints with high pigment concentrations, for example, will result in more vibrant and durable colors that are less likely to fade over time.

Also, be sure to choose supports (canvas, panels, etc.) that are specifically designed for oil painting and properly prepared with gesso.

The "Fat Over Lean" Rule

The "fat over lean" rule is a fundamental principle in oil painting that helps prevent cracking and delamination. It refers to the practice of applying layers of paint with increasing oil content. The underlayers should be "lean," meaning they contain less oil, while the subsequent layers should be "fat," meaning they contain more oil.

This allows each layer to dry properly and creates a flexible paint film that can withstand the test of time.

Varnishing for Protection

Varnishing is another important step in preserving your oil paintings. A varnish creates a protective layer over the surface of the paint, shielding it from dust, dirt, and UV light.

It also saturates the colors and evens out the sheen of the painting. Be sure to use a varnish specifically designed for oil paintings and apply it after the paint has fully dried (typically 6-12 months).

By understanding and implementing these concepts, you’ll not only create more compelling paintings but also ensure that your artwork will be enjoyed for generations to come.

Safety First: Creating a Safe Painting Environment

With the allure of oil painting beckoning, it’s easy to get swept away in the creative process. However, amidst the vibrant colors and artistic flow, it’s absolutely crucial to prioritize safety.

Creating a safe and healthy workspace is paramount, not just for your well-being but also for sustained artistic practice. Oil paints and mediums can contain chemicals that, with prolonged or improper exposure, can pose health risks. Let’s explore essential safety precautions to ensure your artistic journey is both fulfilling and safe.

The Importance of Proper Ventilation

Ventilation is your first line of defense against harmful fumes. Oil paints, solvents, and mediums can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory irritation, and, in the long term, potentially more serious health issues.

What you can do:

• Open Windows and Doors: The simplest solution is often the most effective. Ensure fresh air circulates freely throughout your painting area.

• Use a Fan: Place a fan near a window to draw air outwards, helping to exhaust fumes from your workspace.

• Invest in an Air Purifier: Consider an air purifier with a VOC filter for more enclosed spaces.

• Avoid Working in Confined Spaces: Never paint in small, unventilated rooms or closets.

Safe Disposal of Oil-Soaked Rags

Oil-soaked rags are a significant fire hazard. Linseed oil, in particular, undergoes a process called auto-oxidation as it dries. This process generates heat, and in confined spaces, the heat can build up to the point of spontaneous combustion.

What you can do:

• Never Crumple Rags: Crumpled or piled rags provide insulation, accelerating heat buildup.

• Spread Rags Out to Dry: Lay used rags flat in a well-ventilated area, away from combustible materials, allowing them to dry individually.

• Store Rags in a Sealed Metal Container: The safest method is to place used rags in a metal container filled with water. Make sure the container has a tight-fitting lid to prevent oxygen from fueling any potential fire.

• Dispose of Properly: Check your local regulations for proper disposal methods. Some areas may have specific guidelines for disposing of oil-soaked materials.

Skin Protection from Chemicals

Many oil paints and solvents can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions upon contact. Protecting your skin is a straightforward yet vital aspect of safety.

What you can do:

• Wear Gloves: Use nitrile gloves to create a barrier between your skin and the painting materials. Nitrile is more resistant to solvents than latex.

• Use Barrier Creams: Apply a barrier cream specifically designed for artists to protect your skin even under gloves.

• Clean Spills Immediately: Wipe up any spills of paint or solvents promptly with a clean rag.

• Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: After each painting session, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Avoid using harsh solvents to clean your skin.

By integrating these safety practices into your routine, you not only protect your health but also cultivate a responsible and sustainable artistic environment. Now, armed with this knowledge, you can paint with confidence, knowing you’re taking the necessary steps to safeguard your well-being as you explore the captivating world of oil painting.

Where to Find Your Supplies: Recommended Art Supply Stores

With the allure of oil painting beckoning, it’s easy to get swept away in the creative process. However, amidst the vibrant colors and artistic flow, it’s absolutely crucial to prioritize safety. Once you’ve learned about setting up a safe workspace, the next step is gathering your supplies. Luckily, the US boasts a fantastic array of art supply stores catering to artists of all levels. Choosing the right retailer can significantly impact your painting experience.

This section aims to guide you through some of the most reputable and accessible options, making your supply-sourcing journey smooth and enjoyable. We will be focusing on retailers known for their broad selection, quality products, and excellent customer service.

Navigating the Art Supply Landscape

Finding the perfect art supply store involves considering several factors. Beyond just price, think about the range of products offered, the quality of materials, and the overall shopping experience. Do they offer online shopping? Are there physical stores nearby? Do they have knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions?

Remember, investing in quality materials from the start can ultimately save you money and frustration in the long run. Let’s explore some top contenders.

Jerry’s Artarama

Jerry’s Artarama is a long-standing name in the art supply industry, known for its extensive inventory and competitive prices. They cater to both beginners and professional artists.

What Makes Jerry’s Stand Out?

• Vast Selection: From paints and brushes to easels and canvases, Jerry’s Artarama offers a comprehensive selection of art supplies, ensuring you can find everything you need in one place.

• Competitive Pricing: They are known for offering some of the most competitive prices in the market, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners.

• Online and Physical Presence: Jerry’s Artarama has a robust online store as well as physical locations across the US, providing flexibility in how you shop.

A Word of Caution

While Jerry’s Artarama offers a wide range of products, it’s essential to carefully read product reviews and descriptions to ensure you’re selecting quality materials that meet your specific needs.

Dick Blick Art Materials

Dick Blick is another giant in the art supply world, renowned for its quality products, exceptional customer service, and commitment to the artistic community.

Why Choose Dick Blick?

• High-Quality Materials: Dick Blick is known for carrying a wide selection of high-quality art supplies, including paints, brushes, and canvases from reputable brands.

• Exceptional Customer Service: They pride themselves on providing excellent customer service, with knowledgeable staff who can assist you with your art supply needs.

• Educational Resources: Dick Blick offers a wealth of educational resources, including tutorials, articles, and workshops, making them a valuable resource for beginners.

Important to Remember

Dick Blick’s focus on quality often translates to slightly higher prices compared to some other retailers. However, the investment is usually worth it for the superior performance and longevity of the materials.

Utrecht Art Supplies

Utrecht Art Supplies, now owned by Dick Blick, has a long history of providing artists with high-quality, professional-grade materials. They are known for their own line of artist-quality paints and canvases.

What Makes Utrecht Unique?

• Artist-Quality Paints: Utrecht’s line of paints is highly regarded by professional artists for its rich pigmentation, smooth consistency, and archival quality.

• Hand-Stretched Canvases: They offer a wide selection of hand-stretched canvases made with high-quality linen and cotton, providing a superior painting surface.

• Focus on Professional Artists: While they cater to artists of all levels, Utrecht has a particular focus on providing professional-grade materials for serious artists.

A Point to Note

Utrecht’s product line is more focused on professional-grade materials, so beginners may find the selection slightly overwhelming. However, their knowledgeable staff can help guide you through the options and recommend suitable products for your needs.

Beyond the Big Names

While Jerry’s Artarama, Dick Blick, and Utrecht are excellent starting points, don’t hesitate to explore smaller, local art supply stores in your area. These stores often offer unique products, personalized service, and a chance to connect with your local artistic community.

Online Marketplaces

Another avenue to explore is online marketplaces such as Amazon and Etsy. However, exercise caution when purchasing from these platforms. Always check seller reviews and product descriptions carefully to ensure you’re getting genuine, high-quality materials.

Making Your Choice

Ultimately, the best art supply store for you will depend on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Take the time to explore your options, read reviews, and compare prices before making your final decision. Remember, investing in quality materials is an investment in your artistic journey. Now, with your supplies in hand, you’re ready to dive into the exciting world of oil painting!

So, grab yourself some gesso and oil paint, don’t be afraid to experiment, and most importantly, have fun with it! There’s a whole world of color and texture waiting for you. Happy painting!