painting a picture

Step 1

Prepare the canvas with Resene Quick Dry Acrylic Primer Undercoat to smooth its texture, so the paint will go on evenly. Use smooth, light, even strokes and don’t forget the edges.

Tip: It’s better to put on too little undercoat and then add to it – putting on too much will leave lines in the paint.

Step 2

Lightly sketch image onto the canvas from the photograph, using the ruler to scale up the dimensions. Or, if you prefer abstracts, just go wild with your favourite colours. Select those that already feature in the room and use your painting to bring them all together.

Tip: Plan your colours at this point, so that you will be working from darkest to lightest when you begin to paint.

Step 3

Start blocking in the colour, beginning with the darkest colours in each area of the background – we used Resene testpots. Work downwards from the top of the canvas, so that you can paint over any splashes.

Tip: For smooth blending, work with the paint still wet; for strong contrast, wait until one area has dried before starting on the adjacent one.

Step 4

Progress onto the highlights and details, using smaller brushes as appropriate. Where you want the colour underneath to show through for a translucent effect, thin the next coat with a little water.

Tip: When thinning the paint, don’t add too much water too fast, else it will drip everywhere.

Step 5

Experiment! If you’re painting sand, use sand or tea leaves to add texture. Pour a small amount into a saucer and mix with the paint. Brush on as usual.

Seal canvas with Resene Multishield+ to protect the paint from light and dust, and help it bond to the canvas.

Step 6

Most pre-stretched canvases come with canvas tensioners that help to strengthen them for hanging. Fit these according to the directions. Then, screw your picture hooks into the inside edge of the frame, so that the picture will hang flat on the wall.

Step 7

Hang your art where it will look best!