Painting your own acrylic design allows you to create a piece of artwork that suits your decor.
A striking piece of artwork makes the difference between a boring and drab room and stand-out original decor. Painting your own acrylic design onto a canvas allows you to create a piece of artwork to match the aesthetics of your surroundings; an original piece of artwork also makes a meaningful gift for a special friend or family member. If you follow the right steps and use the correct tools, chances are you'll be able to enhance decor while also becoming addicted to an inspiring new creative process.
Instructions
1. Sand a pre-stretched canvas with fine grit sandpaper. This creates an ultra-smooth finish and allows your paintbrush to move over the canvas in an easy, fluid way. Pre-stretched canvas can be found at craft stores and hobby shops. Remove any sanding dust with a tack cloth. Apply a water-based varnish to the canvas using a sponge brush.
2. Sketch the design or scene that you would like to paint on a piece of heavy-duty drawing paper. When it is finished, place a piece of tracing paper over the image and copy it with a pencil.
3. Transfer the image onto the canvas using a piece of graphite paper. Place the graphite paper face down on the canvas. Place the tracing paper over the graphite paper and tape it in place. Use a stylus to press the image on the tracing paper into the graphite paper. This will copy the image onto the canvas.
4. Paint the background in the colors of your choice using acrylic paint and a large flat brush. Allow the paint to dry. Apply two coats if necessary.
5. Paint all the subjects in the foreground with a base-coat of acrylic paint in the color of your choice, using a medium round brush. Allow the paint to dry. Add shading to the objects using a dry brush by stippling the paint in a slightly darker shade. Add fine details to the painting using a liner brush and stylus. Allow the paint to dry.
6. Add one coat of water-based varnish to the painting with a sponge brush to protect your work. Allow the paint to dry.
