Art Making Techniques

Impasto
Thick layers of paint are applied to the canvas using a brush or palette knife to create a textured, three-dimensional surface.

Dry Brush
A small amount of paint is applied with a dry brush to create a scratchy, textured effect with visible brush strokes. Great for adding highlights or rough textures.

Glazing
Thin, transparent layers of paint are applied over dry layers to build up depth and richness in color without covering the underlying layer.

Scumbling
A dry, broken layer of lighter opaque paint is brushed over a darker color, allowing some of the underpainting to show through for a smoky or atmospheric effect.

Washing
Acrylic paint is heavily diluted with water or medium to create a transparent wash, similar to watercolor techniques.

Pouring
Fluid acrylics are mixed with a pouring medium and poured directly onto the canvas to create abstract, marbled, or cell-like patterns.

Stippling
Dots or small dabs of paint are applied using the tip of a brush or sponge to create texture, shading, or pattern.

Palette Knife Painting
Paint is applied with a palette knife instead of a brush, resulting in bold strokes and dramatic texture.

Sgraffito
A technique where wet paint is scratched or scraped away to reveal layers underneath, creating lines or textures.

Blending
Colors are mixed directly on the canvas or gently worked together to create smooth transitions and gradients.

Sponging
A sponge is used to dab on paint, creating a soft, mottled texture that’s great for clouds, foliage, or abstract backgrounds.

Splattering
Flicking or tapping a brush to scatter paint onto the canvas for a spontaneous, energetic effect.