Oil has been used as a medium by artists for hundreds years. Many European masters were oil painters. Mona Lisa also was oil painted. Although oil art still has the same glossy and rich finish, it is not as popular today. Many people fear choosing this type of art, but it can look so beautiful.

Abstract art has a stunning effect that should be tried by every artist at least once. The depth created depends on your first encounter with the painting. These paints are more difficult and time-consuming to use due to the quality and consistency. Take one stroke slowly and not too quickly.

Are you afraid to use oil paints when painting? Below are some guidelines which can help your painting to have the depth and understand of the oil art world.

It is important to select the right supplies before you begin your abstract painting.

Gather synthetic paintbrushes.

Canvas, can also be a board of wood or even a sheet of paper.

As oil does not dissolve in water, you’ll need to use a different solvent like linseed for oil paints.

To mix colors, you will need either a plate or a pallet. Also a palette to use to mix them.

Towels – or an old rag.

Use an easel when you need to.

Preparing the base is the next step.

Be sure to use gesso as a surface primer before starting to paint your abstract. The oils will seep if not. It also helps to repel acids that may be present in paints. Gesso makes it easier to paint.

Sketching out your abstract idea at step four

If you want your strokes to be in alignment with the intended concept, it’s best to first draw an abstract image on the surface. You don’t have to paint the entire piece. Once you have done this, you can paint.

Oil abstract art: Layering is important

One thing you need to do before painting the main part is to use a thicker or heavier covering. Also, slow drying over rapid drying. Simply put, you would use a thin paint with less oils for the initial layer and then thicker paint and more oil for subsequent layers. This will ensure that the first layer dries much quicker than the second and prevents cracks. The linseed-oil ratio should be kept at 2:1. Linseed oil tends to yellow as it ages, but dries more quickly than the others.

Make an Abstract Oil Painting: Step-by step tutorial

It’s now time to apply colors to your canvas. A palette is best for this, as you will have greater control over shading and angles.

Start with only a handful of colors, then use one at a time. Add shades to the different areas, in various shapes. Align with the idea of your abstract.

Next, after you have placed the shades where you would like them to be, use either a brush of a palette-knife. Paint globs can be flattened with a palate knife, then blended with a paint brush for a smoother appearance. You can also dab in a lighter or a darker paint for smaller detail.

After the first layer, let it quickly dry. Next, move onto darker shades. Highlight lines and angles with thicker colors. You can use a brush to create edges, bristles, or a texture on the surface. You can move the brush in a direction to create the texture you desire.

Keep the wet art away from dust and let it slowly dry. Paints can dry unevenly. Some paints may have a matte surface while others will shine. Do not worry though, because you’ll be adding a final layer of varnish within a month. This will give the painting a glossy appearance.