Watercolor paint sets begin for as little as $20 and can range to prices far above $100. For a quality beginners set of paint, expect to pay between $50-$80 to start. Because watercolor can only be done on special paper that won’t wrinkle and curl when it comes into contact with water, there are limited options for things to use as a “blank canvas,” unlike acrylic and oil paints.
The application style and overall appearance of acrylic paints is most similar to oil paints. Acrylic paints are typically less expensive than oil paints, and require many less additives. They are a bit more intuitive in terms of layering and technique than watercolor paints, though. Acrylic paints are much less toxic than oil paints, as they don’t give off fumes or require heavy ventilation. If you are working in a small space or have pets and children around, acrylic paint is a safer option than oil.
Oil paints are the most expensive option of the three paint mediums, and require several additional supplies including mineral spirits and gels. Oil paints have the richest color of the three paint mediums, and will dry true to the mixed color. [1] X Research source
A craft store called Hobby Lobby has art supplies for budding painters. Things from large and small canvas to painting kits, this store is full of helpful materials.
Unless there is heavy contrast, the values in your painting should all be similar to each other.
A bowl of fruit A vase of flowers A stack of books
If you’re having a difficult time painting your subject accurately, flip your painting upside down. Painting it from a different angle will force your eye to look at the shapes that make up the figure accurately, rather than the symbol of the shapes your mind creates. Start with the lightest colors, and then work with darker colors. It is difficult to layer dark colors over light ones, so start with whites and pastels before moving onto hues and tones.
For watercolor painting, the best brushes are sable or squirrel, with a round tip. The best paint brushes for acrylic painting are synthetic or synthetic mix with a flat tip. For oil painting, the best options to use are synthetic mix and hog with a filbert tip.
Don’t use regular printer paper or another thin paper for painting, as the paint will be too heavy and wet and will cause it to curl and warp. If you plan to paint on wood or plastic, you will have to prime it first so that the paint sticks.
Not necessary for most painting but often desired, an easel can be used to prop up your painting. Otherwise, any flat, stable surface will work for painting on.
Red + Yellow = Orange Yellow + Blue = Green Red + Blue = Purple
It is harder to add white to a color, so try adding a bit of your color to white paint first. You will have to use less paint to make a tint in this fashion.
