How-To Guides
Practical Instructions for Making, Creating and Working With Art Materials
Knowing what material to buy is only part of the process. Knowing how to use it properly can make an even bigger difference.
A new paint, brush, adhesive, drawing tool or craft material may produce very different results depending on how it is prepared, applied, stored and maintained.
Our How-To Guides provide practical instructions for everyday art and craft activities.
Whether you're learning how to prepare a painting surface, clean your brushes, use acrylic paint, organise your materials or approach a new creative project, these guides are designed to help you work with greater confidence.
How to Start an Art Project
Before picking up a brush or pencil, take a few minutes to understand what you're going to make.
A simple preparation process is:
1. Choose the project
Decide what you want to create.
2. Gather your materials
Prepare everything you expect to need.
3. Prepare your workspace
Make sure you have enough room to work comfortably.
4. Prepare the surface
Clean, dry or prime the surface where necessary.
5. Test your materials
Try unfamiliar materials on a spare surface first.
6. Begin with the basic structure
Don't rush into details.
7. Build gradually
Add colour, texture and details in stages.
8. Allow adequate drying or setting time
Don't rush the finishing process.
How to Use Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is versatile, but good results depend on how it is handled.
Step 1 — Prepare the Surface
- Make sure the surface is clean and suitable for acrylic paint.
Step 2 — Prepare Your Palette
- Place a small amount of each colour on your palette.
- Avoid dispensing more paint than you need.
Step 3 — Test the Colour
- Apply a small amount to a spare piece of the same or similar surface.
Step 4 — Block in Large Areas
- Start with the larger shapes and areas.
Step 5 — Build Layers
- Allow appropriate drying time before applying subsequent layers where necessary.
Step 6 — Add Details
- Use smaller brushes for fine work.
Step 7 — Review
- Step away from the artwork periodically and assess the overall composition.
How to Mix Paint Colours
Colour mixing becomes easier when you understand the relationship between colours.
Start with small quantities.
For example:
Blue + Yellow → Green
Red + Yellow → Orange
Red + Blue → Purple
But the exact result depends on the pigments being mixed.
When experimenting:
- Start with a small amount.
- Add one colour gradually.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Record combinations that work well.
- Create a colour chart for future reference.
A colour chart can become a useful reference for future paintings.
How to Make a Colour Chart
A colour chart helps you understand the paints you actually own.
Create labelled sections for each colour.
Then test:
- Full-strength colour
- Lightened mixtures
- Colour combinations
- Complementary combinations
- Neutral mixtures
Allow the samples to dry where the paint changes appearance during drying. Keep the chart with your painting supplies.
How to Clean Paint Brushes
Proper brush care can significantly extend the useful life of your brushes.
After Painting
- Remove excess paint as soon as practical.
Rinse
- Use the appropriate cleaning method for the paint you have been using.
Clean the Bristles
- Gently work out remaining pigment.
Rinse Again
- Continue until the water or cleaning process indicates that the brush is sufficiently clean.
Reshape
- Return the bristles to their original shape.
Dry
- Allow the brush to dry appropriately before storage.
- Avoid leaving brushes sitting in water for extended periods, particularly with the bristles pressed against the bottom of a container.
How to Store Paint Brushes
Once clean:
- Reshape the bristles.
- Allow them to dry.
- Store them in a way that protects the bristles.
- Avoid crushing or bending them unnecessarily.
If you have different brush types, separate them by size or purpose.
This makes it easier to select the correct brush when starting your next project.
How to Use a Round Brush
A round brush can produce several different marks depending on pressure and angle.
Tip
- Use the tip for fine lines.
Side
- Use the side for broader marks.
Pressure
- Increase pressure for wider strokes.
Light Pressure
- Use lighter pressure for finer marks.
- Practise moving from a fine line to a broad stroke in one continuous movement.
How to Use a Flat Brush
Flat brushes are useful for broad coverage and defined edges.
Try:
- Broad horizontal strokes
- Vertical strokes
- Edge painting
- Corner work
- Controlled rectangular shapes
Turn the brush to change the character of the mark.
Experiment on scrap paper or another suitable surface before applying the technique to finished work.
How to Use Acrylic Paint for Layering
Layering involves building an image gradually.
A simple approach is:
Background
↓
Large shapes
↓
Middle values
↓
Additional colour
↓
Details
↓
Final adjustments
Because acrylic can dry relatively quickly, it is useful to work deliberately and avoid putting excessive paint on the palette at once.
How to Thin Acrylic Paint
If you need a thinner application, the appropriate approach depends on the effect you're trying to achieve and the paint manufacturer's recommendations.
Adding a small amount of water can alter the consistency, but excessive dilution can change the way the paint behaves and may reduce its performance.
For techniques requiring a specific consistency or finish, use a medium designed for that purpose.
How to Paint Smooth Areas
Smooth coverage requires controlled application.
Try:
- Use an appropriate brush.
- Load the brush evenly.
- Apply paint consistently.
- Avoid repeatedly working areas that have started to dry.
- Maintain a consistent direction where appropriate.
- Allow the layer to dry before correcting uneven areas.
Good surface preparation also makes a difference.
How to Create Texture With Paint
Texture can be created using different tools and techniques.
Try:
Dry brushing
- Produces broken, textured marks.
Stippling
- Creates texture through repeated dots or dabs.
Sponging
- Produces irregular patterns.
Layering
- Builds visual depth through overlapping applications.
Palette knife work
- Can create strong, raised marks where appropriate for the medium and surface.
How to Prepare Paper for an Art Project
Before using paper:
Check the medium
- Different media require different paper characteristics.
Check the surface
- Smooth paper behaves differently from textured paper.
Check the weight
- Heavier paper is generally better suited to applications involving more moisture.
Test first
- If you're unsure, test your medium on a small section or spare sheet.
How to Prevent Watercolour Paper From Warping
Water and lightweight paper can cause distortion.
Depending on the project, you can reduce warping by:
- Choosing appropriate watercolour paper.
- Controlling the amount of water.
- Avoiding excessive soaking.
- Allowing the paper to dry properly.
- Using suitable paper preparation techniques for the type of work.
The heavier and more appropriate the paper, the better it generally handles substantial water applications.
How to Stretch Watercolour Paper
For techniques involving substantial amounts of water, stretching can help minimise buckling.
The general process involves:
- Prepare the paper.
- Moisten it appropriately.
- Secure it to a suitable support.
- Allow it to dry under controlled conditions.
- Paint once properly prepared.
The exact procedure depends on the paper and method being used.
How to Sharpen a Drawing Pencil
A sharp pencil provides greater control for detailed work.
When sharpening:
- Use a suitable sharpener.
- Avoid excessive pressure.
- Rotate the pencil gradually if sharpening manually.
- Check the point regularly.
- Stop if the graphite begins breaking repeatedly.
For some techniques, you may intentionally use a blunt point to create broader marks.
How to Use Different Pencil Grades
Use harder pencils for lighter marks and softer pencils for darker values.
For example, a basic progression might be:
HB → 2B → 4B → 6B
Start lightly.
Build darker values gradually rather than pressing extremely hard with one pencil.
How to Shade With Graphite
A simple shading process is:
1. Identify the light source
Determine where the light is coming from.
2. Identify the lightest areas
Protect your highlights.
3. Establish mid-tones
Build the middle values gradually.
4. Add shadows
Use darker grades where appropriate.
5. Strengthen the darkest areas
Reserve your deepest values for areas that actually require them.
6. Check the overall value range
Make sure your drawing contains enough variation between light and dark.
How to Use a Kneaded Eraser
A kneaded eraser can be shaped into different forms.
Rather than rubbing aggressively, press or lift it against the graphite.
It can be used to:
- Lighten areas
- Create highlights
- Correct small sections
- Modify tonal transitions
This makes the eraser useful as part of the drawing process rather than simply a correction tool.
How to Start a Craft Project
Before beginning a craft project, prepare:
Materials
- Know exactly what you need.
Tools
- Prepare scissors, rulers, adhesives and other tools.
Template
- Create or obtain a suitable template where necessary.
Workspace
- Protect your working surface.
Sequence
- Understand which parts need to be completed first.
This prevents you from discovering halfway through the project that an important component should have been prepared earlier.
How to Make Clean Paper Folds
For cleaner folds:
- Measure carefully.
- Mark the fold line lightly.
- Align both sides.
- Make the initial fold gently.
- Sharpen the crease using an appropriate tool or the edge of a ruler where suitable.
- Avoid repeatedly folding and unfolding the same area.
Accurate measurement is particularly important for geometric paper projects.
How to Apply Craft Glue
Apply adhesive in a controlled manner.
For paper and card:
- Use enough to create a bond.
- Spread it evenly.
- Pay attention to edges.
- Avoid excessive application.
- Press the pieces together.
- Allow sufficient setting time.
Too much glue can cause paper to wrinkle and can make the finished project untidy.
How to Make Cardboard Models
A simple cardboard model workflow is:
Plan
- Sketch the structure.
Measure
- Determine dimensions.
Template
- Create the individual pieces.
Cut
- Cut carefully and accurately.
Test-fit
- Assemble the pieces without adhesive first.
Adjust
- Correct any pieces that don't fit.
Assemble
- Apply adhesive and join the structure.
Finish
- Paint, decorate or add details.
How to Create a Simple Mixed-Media Artwork
Mixed media involves combining different materials or artistic media within one piece.
You might combine:
Pencil + Paint
Paper + Ink
Paint + Collage
Fabric + Paper
Cardboard + Paint
Start with a simple composition.
Choose materials that work together rather than adding materials simply for variety.
How to Protect Your Workspace
Before painting, gluing or crafting:
- Clear unnecessary objects.
- Cover the working surface.
- Keep water and cleaning materials nearby.
- Organise your tools.
- Keep finished work separate from active materials.
A prepared workspace reduces interruptions and helps prevent accidental spills or damage.
How to Organise Art Supplies
Group supplies according to how you use them.
For example:
Drawing
- Pencils, erasers, sharpeners and paper.
Painting
- Paints, brushes, palettes and painting surfaces.
Craft
- Paper, card, glue, scissors and decorative materials.
Tools
- Rulers, cutting tools and other equipment.
- Use labelled containers where practical.
How to Store Artwork
Different artwork requires different storage methods.
Paper Drawings
- Keep them flat and protected from moisture.
Paintings
- Allow them to dry completely before stacking or storing.
Small Crafts
- Use boxes or containers that prevent crushing.
Sketchbooks
- Keep them dry and away from excessive heat or moisture.
- Avoid placing heavy objects directly on delicate artwork.
How to Clean Your Art Workspace
Don't wait until the end of a large project to clean everything.
During the project:
- Return tools after use.
- Close paint containers.
- Remove unnecessary scraps.
- Wipe spills promptly.
- Keep wet artwork in a safe location.
At the end:
Clean → Dry → Store → Reset
A clean workspace makes the next project easier to start.
How to Choose the Right Art Material
When you're unsure what to buy, work backwards from the project.
Ask:
- What am I making?
- Which medium am I using?
- What surface does it require?
- Which tools are appropriate?
- Which additional materials are necessary?
This approach is more reliable than buying supplies based purely on appearance or popularity.
How to Test an Unfamiliar Material
Before using a new material on finished work:
Test
- Use a spare piece.
Observe
- Look at colour, texture, drying and coverage.
Adjust
- Change your technique if necessary.
Combine
- Test it with the other materials you'll be using.
Decide
- Only then use it on your final project.
- This is especially useful when combining different media.
How to Avoid Wasting Art Materials
Good material management can save money.
- Measure before cutting.
- Use small test areas.
- Mix only the amount of paint you need.
- Close containers properly.
- Clean tools promptly.
- Store unused materials correctly.
- Reuse suitable scraps.
Small habits can significantly reduce unnecessary waste over time.
How to Build Better Creative Habits
A useful creative routine doesn't need to be complicated.
Set aside regular time to:
Practise
- Work on a specific technique.
Experiment
- Try something unfamiliar.
Create
- Work on a personal project.
Review
- Look at what worked and what didn't.
Record
- Keep useful notes, colour combinations or material observations.
- Over time, these small sessions build a useful body of experience.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
My paint is streaky.
- Check your surface, brush, paint consistency and application technique.
My paper is buckling.
- Consider the paper weight and the amount of moisture being applied.
My brush has lost its shape.
- Check whether paint has dried in the bristles and whether the brush has been stored correctly.
My pencil drawing looks too dark.
- Use lighter pressure and build values gradually.
My craft project looks messy.
- Check cutting accuracy, adhesive application and alignment.
My colours look muddy.
- Avoid mixing too many colours unnecessarily and test combinations before applying them to the final work.
My artwork looks flat.
- Study value, overlapping forms, perspective and edge variation.
Learn Before You Buy
Understanding materials can make purchasing decisions easier.
If you're unsure about a product, consider:
- What medium is it designed for?
- What surfaces can it be used on?
- What technique will you use?
- What tools are required?
- How should it be stored?
- How should it be cleaned?
Our Art Materials & Supplies Guide provides a broader reference for these questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start an art project?
Choose your project, gather the required materials, prepare your workspace and surface, then begin with the larger shapes or structures before adding details.
How do I clean acrylic paint brushes?
Remove excess paint promptly and clean the brush using an appropriate method for the paint. Avoid allowing paint to dry in the bristles.
How do I stop my paint brushes from losing their shape?
Clean them promptly, reshape the bristles after washing and store them in a way that prevents bending or crushing.
How do I mix paint colours?
Start with small quantities and add one colour gradually to another. Record successful combinations so you can reproduce them later.
How do I prevent watercolour paper from warping?
Use appropriate watercolour paper, control the amount of water and use suitable paper-preparation techniques when the project requires them.
How do I make clean paper crafts?
Accurate measuring, careful cutting, controlled glue application and precise folding are key to producing cleaner paper projects.
How do I use different pencil grades?
Harder grades are generally useful for lighter marks, while softer grades are useful for darker values. Build tonal ranges gradually.
How do I use a kneaded eraser?
Shape it and gently press or lift graphite rather than aggressively rubbing the drawing. It can be used to lighten areas and create highlights.
How do I choose the right art material?
Start with the project and medium, then determine the appropriate surface, tools and supporting materials.
How can I reduce waste when crafting?
Plan measurements before cutting, test materials first, use only the amount of paint or adhesive required and store reusable materials properly.
How should I store art supplies?
Store each material according to its characteristics and manufacturer instructions. Keep supplies organised, dry where required and protected from unnecessary damage.