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Why should an oil painting be varnished?

Varnish is desirable for two key reasons: one, to bring the surface to a uniform gloss level (matt or gloss or somewhere in between), and two, for protection from dust...

What are the three oil painting rules?

If you want to make the most of your painting, there are three tried and tested rules that will serve you well: Fat over lean, think over thin and slow...

What is the "fat over lean" painting rule?

Fat over lean is better understood if considered as ‘flexible over less flexible’. When painting in layers, the proportion of medium used in each layer should be increased.

Oiling out: how to fix sinking and dull areas in oil paintings

Explore oiling out as a technique to revive dull areas in oil paintings affected by sinking. Discover expert tips on using oil mediums to restore vibrancy and maintain painting integrity.

How to lift watercolour

Lifting is not just the watercolourist’s answer to an eraser. It’s a widely-used technique for portraying smoky atmospheres, cloudy skies and other such effects. But from gently sponging out a...

How to create granulation with watercolour

There are three main factors to be aware of when it comes to controlling the level of granulation in your watercolour scene: medium, paper colour.

How to check the granulation of a watercolour

A useful method for checking where a certain colour lies on the granulation spectrum involves wetting your paper and adding some colour on top. Gently rock the paper back and...

What is the difference between watercolour and gouache whites?

The difference between gouache and watercolour whites is the amount of pigment in the paint. Gouache is more opaque, which is why it is used for block colour. The two mediums are intermixable. Gouache...

Why are there two watercolour whites?

Winsor & Newton offers two watercolour whites with distinct applications. Chinese White, introduced in 1834, is favored for adding highlights or toning down colours with its semi-opaque, blue-toned formula. Alternatively,...

Can you use gouache and acrylic in watercolour techniques?

Designers Gouache is ideal for achieving opaque effects in watercolour, with its matte finish, high pigment concentration, and gum arabic base for excellent flow. It also allows for flexible layering...

How can I use pens with watercolour?

Pens and watercolours are fantastically compatible, drawings made with fineliners are ideal for making a sketch as a first step before colour, or for adding details on top of watercolour later. The...