STUDIO NOTES

Practical advice on oil painting and my thoughts on art, materials, and the painting process.

Art Materials

How to Make Your Own Canvas: Stretching, Sizing, and Priming

My step-by-step guide on making your own canvas, from assembling the frame to sizing and priming, with tips on materials and techniques. READ MORE

Oil Painting

Tonalism: Breakdown of the Style and Painting Technique

Tonalism, with its focus on mood and atmosphere, is a uniquely compelling art movement. Discover the techniques that make it so special! READ MORE

Art Materials, Oil Painting

Water Mixable Oil Paints: My Experience, Brands, and Techniques

Water mixable oil paint is a great alternative to traditional oils. Learn about its properties, brands, toxicity, and performance. READ MORE

Oil Painting

How to Paint Landscapes: 5 Tips for Beginner Oil Painters

Get better at painting landscapes with these 5 tips. Learn to simplify shapes, clarify values, and create depth in your landscape paintings. Read More

landscape oil painting

Oil Painting

Top 10 Oil Painting Exercises for Beginners

These oil painting exercises for beginners will help you get comfortable with your tools and improve your understanding of art fundamentals. Read More

oil painting exercise colour matching

Art Materials, Oil Painting

How to Use Oil Paint on Paper: Tips and Surface Preparation

Paper is a valid alternative to canvases and wood panels. Check out my tips for choosing the right paper and priming it for oil paint. Read More

artist oil painting on paper