Category Paint

Guides on using acrylics, tempera, poster paints, and more.

Basic Brush Shapes

Understanding basic brush shapes is one of the fastest ways to improve painting technique. Each brush shape is designed to produce specific marks, edges, and textures. Using the correct brush shape reduces frustration and increases control over paint application. Round…

Blending Techniques

Blending is the process of transitioning smoothly between colours or values. While often associated with realism, blending is useful in many painting styles and media. Wet-on-Wet Blending Wet-on-wet blending involves mixing colours directly on the surface while the paint is…

Yellow Pigments Compared

Yellow pigments vary more than most artists realise. While many tubes are simply labelled “Yellow,” the underlying pigment dramatically affects opacity, mixing behaviour, safety, and longevity. Understanding the differences between common yellow pigments allows artists to choose the right yellow…

Watercolour vs Gouache

Watercolour and gouache are both water-based paints, but they behave very differently. Understanding their characteristics helps artists choose the right medium for their style and subject matter. Watercolour Characteristics Watercolour is transparent and relies on the white of the paper…

Using Sponges for Texture

Sponges are versatile tools that allow artists to create organic texture, layered effects, and natural transitions that are difficult to achieve with brushes alone. They are commonly used in acrylic painting, mixed media, and decorative art. Why Use Sponges Instead…

Rinse & Care for Brushes

Proper brush care is essential for maintaining performance and extending the life of painting tools. Neglected brushes lose shape, stiffness, and effectiveness. Rinsing During Use Brushes should be rinsed regularly while painting to prevent paint from drying in the bristles.…

Palette Knife Techniques

Palette knives are powerful tools for creating texture, bold strokes, and expressive effects in painting. While often associated with mixing paint, palette knives can also be used directly on the surface to apply colour. Types of Palette Knives Palette knives…

Natural Bristle vs Synthetic Brushes

Choosing the right type of brush has a significant impact on paint application, control, and finish. One of the most common decisions artists face is whether to use natural bristle brushes or synthetic brushes. Each type has distinct characteristics that…

Mixing Primary Colours

Primary colours—red, blue, and yellow—form the foundation of all colour mixing. Understanding how they interact gives artists full control over their palette. Mixing Secondary Colours Combining primary colours produces secondary colours: Small ratio changes create dramatically different results. Colour Temperature…

Layering with Acrylics

Layering is one of the greatest strengths of acrylic paint. Because acrylics dry quickly, artists can build complexity and depth efficiently when layering is done correctly. Start with Thin Layers Early layers should be thin and diluted slightly with water…

Ink vs Paint: What to Use

Ink and paint are both widely used artistic mediums, but they behave very differently and are suited to different types of work. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each helps artists choose the right medium for their project and avoid…