Dry brush painting is a painting technique that is often used to create texture and detail in a painting. It is a simple technique that is easy to learn and can be used with a variety of painting media.
To start dry brush painting, you will need a flat brush with firm bristles. A small size is recommended for more precise details. You’ll also need your paint and a palette to mix your colors.
To begin, load your brush with paint and then wipe off most of the paint onto a paper towel or rag. The idea is to have a small amount of paint on the brush so that it doesn’t flow too easily onto the paper. The bristles of the brush should be stiff enough to hold some paint, but not so stiff that the paint doesn’t come off the brush at all.
Then, using light pressure, apply the brush to the surface of your wood blank. The technique involves dragging the brush lightly over the surface, allowing the brush to skip and create texture as it moves. This technique is particularly useful when painting surfaces such as rocks, wood, or fabric, where a textured appearance is desired.
You can also use the dry brush technique to create highlights and shadows. By applying light, quick strokes with a small amount of paint, you can create the illusion of depth and dimension in your painting.
One thing to keep in mind is that this technique works best on dry wood or canvas. If the surface is wet, the paint will blend and spread, which is not the desired effect. To ensure that your surface is dry, you can use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process.