If you like painting, you probably know the pointillism techniqueThis is a fairly old painting technique, dating back to the 19th century. It is characterized by small brush strokes, or even dots of pure colors that, when seen from a distance, seem to form images.
But What are the basic materials to start with pointillism? This is what we are going to talk about next so that you can get started with this technique. Do you want to know more?
Basic materials to start pointillism
When you start or practice pointillism, in addition to knowing examples of painters and works that have been done with this technique, you need materials. And also know how to use them.
Among the basic materials to start with pointillism, the most important ones, and those that you should never be without, are the following:
Canvas
The canvas is the paper or space that you are going to use to paint. In this sense, you can have canvas, which is denser and stronger, as well as being a fabric; or high quality paper, which is cheaper and more easily found.
Of course, there are differences between the two. In general, each has a number of advantages and disadvantages.
Canvas, for example, tends to be more resistant than paper, and you have a rigid and stable surface, especially when you are already painting. Its natural texture makes it more enriching to the work and you can find it in multiple sizes. However, it is expensive and, if you do not have much technique or skill, it can make it difficult to make fine details.
On the other hand, high-quality paper is much cheaper and is characterized by having a fine and uniform texture. But in exchange you will lose durability, and it is also more sensitive to water.
The choice will be up to you.You can start with paper and as you gain practice move on to canvas.
Fine tip brushes
For pointillism, one of the basic materials is brushes. We recommend that you Whenever possible, choose brushes with round tips and fine bristles. The reason is simple: it will allow you to create the most precise points for your work.
Specifically, we recommend that you choose a size between 0 and 3.
Painting
Along with brushes, paint is essential. Although many people think that the paint doesn't matter, the truth is that it doesn't. In pointillism, there are three that are most appropriate:
- Acrylic paints, that allow you to work quickly because, as they dry quickly, you can create different layers of dots and thus obtain a quick result.
- Oil paintings, They take longer to dry, but if you want to make adjustments or take your time, the results you get are more vivid.
- Watercolors, which are more complicated to use, especially when you have to balance the paint with the water. It is not for beginners, but you can try it out.
You should also know that in pointillism, colors are not mixed on the color palette, but rather it has to be done directly on the canvas or paper you are using. Therefore, you will need to have primary and secondary colors on hand to make the mixtures and variations. And no, we do not recommend that you have them already prepared, because the coloring can change.
Pencil and eraser
Right now you might be thinking why do you want that? Since we are talking about basic materials to start with pointillism, we understand that you don't have much practice with the technique. That's why, at the beginning It is better to sketch out the design you want to make to gain experience.
This means that you should use a pencil to make a rough draft or sketch of your design and, before applying the paint, erase with the eraser to place the dots.
Water or solvent and a rag
Since you're just starting out with pointillism, it's normal for you to have a hard time at first. And for you to make mistakes. When you do this with a pencil, there's no problem; you just erase it and that's it.
But what if it's with paint? Well, water can help you dilute the paint, but also clean the brushes. It can even help you clean the paint if you've made a mistake and make sure there's no trace of it left. It's ideal for acrylics and watercolours.
In the case of oil paints, you will have to use the solvent to clean the brushes. Removing mistakes in the painting will be more complicated, and you will have to use other paints to hide the mistake (either that or throw it away altogether).
Simple images
At first, we don't recommend that you get creative and start imagining a scene and want to do it with this technique. Especially because that can frustrate you if it doesn't turn out the way it should. Or the way you imagined it.
However, we do recommend that you opt for simple and easy-to-capture images. Don't make them too big or have too many details. This way, you'll progress little by little, but you'll also get more comfortable with pointillism, which can help you feel like you're making progress.
Closehey heylighting
Pointillism, as we told you at the beginning, implies that you will barely see the work up close, and it is only if you move away that you will see the context. Therefore, when working on it, you must be aware of the proximity with which you work, but also the lighting.
In other words, You will have to move closer and further away from the canvas or paper to see how it is going.And light can help you see how colors would look. In fact, if you want to play with light and shadow, having the right lighting will help you create better results.
As you can see, there are several basic materials to start pointillism, but the important thing is that, if you have all of them, you can start trying and see if it is the technique that suits you (and become a professional in it). Can you think of any other essential materials?