Painting for Beginners: Tips to Help You Get Started

Did you know that engaging in a type of visual expression, such as painting, activates the reward pathway in the brain? Creating art can even lower stress and cortisol levels.

The beautiful thing about art is that anyone can pick it up, and painting is both relaxing and fun. If you’ve never picked up a paintbrush before, don’t worry. Use these tips on painting for beginners to get started learning.

Try Different Materials

It might take some trial and error to find out which type of materials you like working with best. For instance, would you prefer watercolors, acrylic paints, or oil paints? Do you want to paint on canvas, paper, or something else?

One of the most thrilling parts of being an artist is experimenting. Try different materials to see which ones you like.

If you’re looking for art supplies on a budget, get a sketchbook or some canvases, a set of brushes, and try using acrylic paints or watercolors first. Oil paints can be a little expensive. If you buy a sketchbook, make sure the paper is suitable for paints.

Find Inspiration in the Little Things

Many people that want to learn how to draw or paint sit down and look at the blank paper in front of them and can’t decide what to draw.

Start by finding inspiration in the little things around you. Look out your window and paint what you see or try painting some flowers. Start by recreating these everyday items around you for practice.

Nature can be a great source of inspiration. Try taking an easel and canvas to the park or take your sketchbook to the beach and paint the water.

Take a Painting for Beginners Class

For many people, taking a class can help give them the guidance they need to start painting. Taking a painting for beginners class can help take your skills to the next level and provide valuable insights you can use.

You have a few options for taking classes. You can take in-person classes, which usually last a few weeks or months. You can also take online classes that teach you basic skills and help you improve your technique.

Once you’ve leveled up your skills and you’re ready for more advanced classes, consider signing up for an art masterclass.

Keep Practicing and Don’t Give Up

The most important tip we can give you is to keep practicing. When you learn how to paint, there’s a learning curve. Many new artists get discouraged when their art doesn’t come out how they expected.

Don’t give up! Keep at it, and if you feel you can’t advance any more on your own, take a class or find a painting teacher to help you.

Start Painting

Hopefully, these painting for beginners tips inspired you to pick up a brush. Grab your supplies and start painting! The more you paint, the better you’ll get, and soon you won’t be a beginner anymore.

Don’t forget to check out some of the other sections on our website to find more inspirational posts like this one.