Blog Post

Would you like to give oil painting a try? 

  • By Beth Bee
  • 14 Aug, 2018

Finding the right materials for your inner artist:

Having an idea you would like to paint, or even the feeling that you would like to see what it feels like to glide paint across a canvas is a great start, but without the proper materials, it will be difficult to get the result that you are looking for.

Apprentice artists, and students in art school go to museums and copy from the masters, and its a great way to learn. I would suggest finding a painting that you love, and really look at it. I mean, really look. My painting professor, Bruce Herman, used to say, "learning to paint is learning to see." 

Youtube is also a great place to learn how to paint, and you can find video tutorials on oil painting.  Pick a painting that resonates with you in some way, and an instructor that you enjoy listening to. You can pause and go back and watch things again as many times as you want, in the comfort of your own home, without feeling like anyone is watching you! 

Here are some of the materials I recommend: 
(these are affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission if you buy through my link. Please feel free to buy them in whatever way you wish, and even take the list to your local box store.) 

All in one:

If you want to get started right away, and you need to order a lot of individual items, this set is the way to go. You have everything you need to get started painting!  This would also make a great gift item for someone with a creative bent. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QQUUJCC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Oil paints:

An oil painting set is a great way to get started, because you have quite a few pre-mixed colors, and you can get to know which colors you gravitate towards. This one is artist quality, and you get 36 tubes and a bonus color wheel.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077VZZG1F/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

This set gives you 24 colors to start out with, which would be enough for a few paintings, depending on the size. It's a great place to start if you just want to experiment a bit and see if it's something you love to do. These paints are labeled non-toxic, and appropriate for older kids. It's also a fantastic price! 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LH18OB8/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Brushes:

This set of brushes is incredibly versatile, and gives you flexibility in your choice of medium. It also includes a carry bag, which is helpful if you think you might paint outdoors. It also has a nice size range of brushes. Some brushes at the art store can be $16 and up per brush, so this set is a good value to get your started! Take good care of your brushes by cleaning them after painting and they will last a lot longer! 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07DGZN659/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

If you want to start out with a few handmade brushes, and go from there, I would pick: 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M3UP36R/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Canvas: 

These are great if you are just starting out. Lots of chances to practice! 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00K6IOOMQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

If you want a high quality canvas at a good price, go for this:
 gallery wrapped, 1 1/2" deep, 2 feet x 4 feet, perfect for over a couch!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004GXBZ06/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Pallette:

this disposable pallette is great if you are in a situation where cleaning up is difficult! 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q1RJPPM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

but this wood one is the classic, and includes an introductory brush set! 
I washed my pallette and rubbed some oil on it before using, then wiped it dry. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027A5B2I/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Books:

The oil painting course you've always wanted: takes you step by step!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0823032590/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Daily Painting to become more creative: 
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0770435335/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...

Landscape painting concepts and techniques:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0823032205/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=bethbeeart-20&camp=178...


Blessings and joy in your new venture! Get rid of fear, and anything holding you back, and embrace risk and whimsy, as you experience the pleasure of painting for yourself.
By Beth Bee 14 Aug, 2018
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