Process of oil painting

The process of oil painting varies from artist to artist, but often includes certain steps.













First, I prepares the surface. Although surfaces like linoleum, wooden panel, and cardboard have been used, the most versatile surface is canvas. Many famous paintings were painted on panel (Da Vinci's Mona Lisa).

Next I might sketch an outline of their subject prior to applying pigment to the surface. The pigment is mixed with oil, usually linseed oil but other oils may be used as well. The various oils dry differently creating assorted effects.













Then I paint in layers, use this layer to sketch out the composition. After this layer dries, one way I might then proceed is by painting a "mosaic" of color swatches, working from darkest to lightest.

A basic rule of oil paint application is 'fat over lean.' This means that each additional layer of paint should be a bit oilier than the layer below.


Done.