There really is no easy answer to the question, How do I Paint a Picture? The simple answer is just dive in and practice. The less simple answer is buy your supplies, learn a few painting techniques, and practice some more.
People say, oh anyone can paint. I believe that this is a true statement, but are they painting and achieving the results that they are striving for? When I first started painting I was not achieving the results I wanted in painting pictures. I then purchased some better quality paints and brushes, some step by step tutorials and within a short time I was painting pictures that I was pleased with. Follow the steps below and you should find it easier to learn how to paint beautiful pictures and paintings.
1. Buy your paint, brushes and canvas or paper. Whichever medium that you choose to paint with, weather it is acrylics, oil, or watercolor, do yourself a favor and buy good quality supplies. The way that I teach and practice art is to always use good brushes. If you are practicing a technique it is ok to use cheap paint, but in the real painting, use better quality paint. As far as other supplies, use things that you have around the house, such as old plastic bowls, ziplock bags and paper plates, etc.
2. If you are fortunate enough to have a space dedicated for painting keep all your supplies right there. This way you can paint whenever the spirit moves you. This is more important than you may think. If you do not have enough space, then purchase a large study bin or even a sturdy cardboard box and make that your portable studio that you can unload on the kitchen table in an instant.
3. Consider the light in the space that you plan on working. Good light makes all the difference. If you are painting with oil paint and it is not water miscible then you absolutely need to consider the ventilation in the area because you will be exposed to some pretty strong odors.
4. If money is a concern then I recommend starting with watercolor or acrylics. They both are odorless and clean up with water. They are also less expensive.
Now that you have your supplies and your dedicated space, start painting. If you are real creative, you can come up with your own ideas. But for the rest of us inspiration is not so easily come by. For those of you that fall into that category I suggest purchasing a step by step tutorial and start by following the example of someone that is dedicated to teaching art techniques.
Julie Shoemaker is an avid painter and hobbyist who regularly gives paintings as gifts to family and friends. To read more articles like the one here, and to see more free art tips, tricks and techniques and free step by step lessons Learn Painting Techniques or visit http://www.IamPainting.org
