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Art Techniques Every Beginner Should Try

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Here are some super fun and creative art techniques you should try. They're sure to spark your imagination, and who knows? You might just discover your new favorite medium!
 
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Underpainting is a great way to map out your painting before you begin. It helps to plan your composition and color scheme before making it permanent.
An Underpainting Can Perk Up Your Color
 
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Impasto is a technique where paint is laid on the canvas in thick layers. It creates an awesome texture and gives your work a 3D feel. Plus, it's so satisfying to see the paint pile up!
Impasto | Art is Fun
 
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Frottage is a fun technique where you take a rubbing from a textured surface. You can use anything from leaves to coins, and it's always a surprise to see the outcome!
Frottage | Art is Fun
 
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Sgraffito means 'to scratch' in Italian. You apply layers of paint or plaster and then scratch a design into it. It's like revealing a secret message in your art.
Sgraffito | Visual Art Encyclopedia
 
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This technique is all about using tiny dots of color to create an image. It's like creating a magic puzzle and you'll love seeing the image take shape!
Making a Point
 
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This technique is all about dramatic illumination. It's a great way to create mood and a sense of depth in your paintings.
CreativeLive: Do what you love.
 
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Glazing is a technique where you apply thin, transparent layers of paint. It's a great way to create depth and luminosity in your paintings.
Glazed and Confused? Acrylic painting techniques
 
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Chiaroscuro is a technique that focuses on strong contrasts between light and dark. This is a great technique to bring a sense of drama and realism to your artwork.
Art is Fun
 
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Scumbling is a technique where you lightly layer paint over another dry color to create a soft, hazy effect. It's a great way to create atmospheric effects in your paintings.
CreativeLive: Do what you love.
 
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Collage is a technique where you combine different materials onto a surface. It's a great way to experiment with texture, color and composition.
Artworks by media: Collage
 
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Encaustic is a technique where colored pigments are mixed with hot wax and then applied to a surface. It's a fun and tactile way to create art with beautiful textures and depth.
Encaustic | Art is Fun
 
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Alla Prima is a technique where paint is applied to the canvas in one sitting, while the paint is still wet. This is a great technique for capturing the energy and spontaneity of a scene.
Alla Prima | CreativeLive
 
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Grisaille is a method of painting entirely in shades of grey. It's a great way to focus on value and composition without the distraction of color.
Working Up From a Grisaille, Step-by-Step Portrait Painting ...
 
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Stippling is a technique that involves creating a pattern using small dots. It's a great way to add texture and detail to your artwork.
WikiArt.org - Visual Art Encyclopedia
 
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Watercolor wash is a technique that involves applying a thin layer of watercolor to the paper. This creates a beautiful, ethereal background for your paintings.
Watercolor Brushes from The Magic of ...
 
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Charcoal drawing is a great way to explore light, shade and volume. It's messy and fun, and you'll love the rich, deep tones you can achieve.
All About Charcoal Drawing
 
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Paper Mache is a technique where you create 3D objects from paper and glue. It's a fun and tactile way to create art, and the possibilities are endless!
Paper Mache | Art is Fun
 
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Spray Paint Art is a technique where you use spray paint to create colorful and dynamic pieces. It's a fast and exciting way to create street-style art.
Artworks by media: Spray paint
 
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Marbling is a technique where you float colors on a liquid surface and then transfer the pattern to paper. It's mesmerizing to watch and creates beautiful, swirling patterns.
Intro to Paper Marbling
 
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Ink Wash Painting is a technique that involves applying ink to paper in a series of washes. It's a great way to create depth and atmosphere in your artwork.
Pen and Ink Drawing Techniques and Watercolor Washes