I put this together to show everyone my five simple steps to a successful painting. Hope you find it useful.

  • Paint the blank canvas in a base colour (this is called a ground)
  • Paint in the lines of the rule of thirds to help your composition
  • Draw in roughly (with paint) your subject
  • Block in colours with a large brush/knife
  • Build up detail with a smaller brush/knife
  • Check your painting in reverse with a mirror to help see any problems that might need addressing.
Paint the blank canvas in a base colour (this is called a ground)
Paint in the lines of the rule of thirds to help your composition
Draw in roughly (with paint) your subject
Block in colours with a large brush/knife
Build up detail with a smaller brush/knife
Checking in the mirror in reverse shows anything that is not right in your painting. Taking a photo with your mobile will also help to spot any problems.