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Underpainting techniques with acrylics

Video: “Underpainting and Glazing: Techniques of the Old Masters with Helen Van Wyk” by HelenVanWyk on YouTube.

Underpainting Techniques with Acrylics

Underpainting is an essential technique that can elevate your acrylic paintings by providing a strong foundation and depth. This tutorial will guide you through the process of underpainting, covering what you need, key techniques, common beginner mistakes, and an encouraging wrap-up to inspire your artistic journey.

What You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• Acrylic paints: Choose a limited colour palette to start with, such as black, white, and a few primary colours.
• Brushes: A variety of brushes, including flat, round, and filbert shapes.
• Palette: A surface for mixing your paints.
• Canvas or wood panel: Your chosen surface to paint on.
• Water container: For cleaning your brushes.
• Paper towels or rags: For wiping brushes and cleaning up spills.
• Varnish (optional): To protect your finished piece.

Key Techniques Step by Step

1. Sketch Your Composition

Start by lightly sketching your composition on the canvas. Use a pencil or a thin layer of paint to outline the main elements of your artwork. This will help guide your underpainting.

2. Choose Your Underpainting Colour

Traditional underpainting often employs a monochromatic colour scheme, such as burnt umber or a grey tone. For a more vibrant approach, you can select a colour that aligns with the mood of your painting.

3. Apply a Thin Layer of Paint

Using a large flat brush, apply a thin layer of your chosen underpainting colour over the entire canvas. This layer should be transparent enough to allow the texture of the canvas to show through. Use water to thin the paint if necessary.

4. Establish Values

To create depth, focus on establishing the light and dark areas of your composition. Use a darker tone to define shadows and a lighter tone for highlights. This step is crucial in setting the tonal values for your final painting.

5. Blend and Soften Edges

While the underpainting is still wet, use a clean brush to blend the edges between the light and dark areas. This will help create a seamless transition and a soft background for your later layers.

6. Allow to Dry

Let your underpainting dry completely before moving on to the next layer. Acrylics dry quickly, but it's important to ensure that the base is fully set to avoid muddying your colours.

7. Build Up Layers

Once the underpainting is dry, start layering your colours. Use a glazing technique by applying thin layers of transparent paint over your underpainting to build depth. Remember to allow each layer to dry before adding the next.

Common Beginner Mistakes

• Using Too Much Water: While thinning acrylics is important, too much water can dilute the paint and affect the adhesion. Aim for a balance between fluidity and coverage.
• Skipping Drying Time: Rushing the drying process can lead to muddy colours. Be patient and allow each layer to dry thoroughly.
• Overworking the Paint: Acrylics can dry quickly, so try not to over-blend or continuously manipulate wet paint. This can create unwanted textures and muddy colours.
• Ignoring Value Structure: Focusing too much on colour instead of value can flatten your painting. Pay attention to the light and dark areas to create depth.

Encouraging Wrap-Up

Underpainting is a powerful technique that can enhance your acrylic painting skills and create stunning artworks. Remember, every artist starts somewhere, and the key to improvement is practice and experimentation. Don’t be discouraged by mistakes—embrace them as part of your learning journey. So grab your materials, start underpainting, and watch your creativity flourish!