Hello folks. I would like to do a series of segments on how to get started in acrylic painting for the beginner, as well as helpful tips and tricks anyone can master.
Many people have asked me how to get started in painting and others have asked for tips and tricks to be successful. Thankfully, nowadays, there is a wealth of information out there, and many resources available such as: Google,You tube, the PBS station that features professional artist’s instruction and demonstration There are also local art leagues, galleries and classes you can take within your own community. The more you get involved with other artists, the better off you are! The benefits of being involved with fellow artists are endless. You will soon have a vast wealth of information at your fingertips. The following is a breakdown of some of the things that I have learned along the way.

I will start this series with what the beginner needs to know to get started.

I just want to say that whether you are a novus, a professional or somewhere in between, if you are going to take your artwork seriously, it is important to have good quality materials as they really do make a difference!

Paints: I suggest that you DO NOT start with “beginner paints”. They are poor quality and if you’re like me, you don’t want to invest your hard earned money into something that is just mediocre. If you go to a craft store such as Michael’s, you will see sections for beginners (student’s), professionals, etc. If you don’t see these sections, ASK! If there isn’t a craft store near you, I recommend ordering online at Dick Blick, Jerry’s Artarama that specialize in art materials.
Paint brands: There are a variety of paint brands such as Daler Rowney, Winsor Newton or Golden. Liquitex is a great brand but – Do Not buy “Basics” paints, I have found that the texture of some of them is questionable. Yes, they will be a little more expensive, but like I said, it could mean the difference between a good painting and a great painting. I use a variety of different brands and if you use this same approach, do keep in mind that the colors might not always be the same across different brands. You will soon learn what brands you gravitate towards as you go along. I would try to obtain the following colors to start: Titanium white, Mars black, Ultramarine blue, Cadmium red, Cadmium yellow, yellow Ochre, Burnt Umber, Burnt Sienna, Sap green, Dioxazine purple, Cadmium orange.
Along with gathering your paint, look for what is called a gray scale and a color wheel. Learn their purposes and the importance of how they affect your artwork.

This might seem like a lot of information to process, but the long and short of it is to just find some good quality paint. Thanks for stopping by and look for my next segment on brushes.