Brush Up Your Skills: Simple Ways to Become a Better Painter by The Creative Easel

Hello Friends,

Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been painting for years, every artist has room to grow. Becoming a better painter doesn’t require a fancy studio or expensive supplies—it just takes dedication, a willingness to experiment, and a few solid techniques that can elevate your art to the next level. At The Creative Easel, we’re all about encouraging creativity and giving you tools to thrive. Here are some powerful ways to strengthen your skills and gain confidence with every brushstroke.

1. Paint Regularly—Even When You Don’t Feel Inspired

One of the biggest breakthroughs for many artists comes from simply showing up. Like any skill, painting improves with repetition. Set aside even 15–30 minutes a few times a week to put paint to canvas. This practice keeps your hand steady, your eye trained, and your creative brain switched on—even if you’re just playing with color or doing a simple sketch.

2. Master the Basics First

Before diving into complex techniques or styles, make sure you’re confident with the basics:

• Color mixing: Understanding how to create vibrant, cohesive palettes.

• Brush control: Practicing pressure, angle, and motion with different brushes.

• Layering and blending: Learning how to work from background to foreground and how to create soft transitions.

These skills create a strong foundation that every great painting builds on.

3. Study Light and Shadows

Paying attention to light transforms flat paintings into dynamic, realistic scenes. Try painting the same object in different lighting conditions, or use a lamp to cast shadows and highlight details. Practice makes it easier to “see” depth and bring it into your work.

4. Use Reference Photos (But Make Them Your Own)

Don’t be afraid to use reference images! They can help you understand proportions, color relationships, and texture. The key is not to copy exactly—use the photo as a guide and infuse it with your own style and creativity.

5. Try Different Techniques and Styles

Experiment with palette knives, dry brushing, stippling, or watercolor effects using acrylics. Stepping outside your comfort zone stretches your skills and may even help you discover a new favorite style.

6. Take Notes and Keep a Sketchbook

Keep track of what works and what doesn’t. Try different brush types, brands of paint, or color combos—and jot down your thoughts. A sketchbook is a great place to practice without pressure and track your progress over time.

7. Get Feedback and Stay Connected

Share your work with fellow creatives, take workshops, or join a local paint night or online group. Getting feedback (and giving it!) helps you grow faster and stay motivated. Plus, seeing how others approach a painting can spark new ideas for your own.

8. Be Patient with Yourself

Every artist struggles at some point. That awkward “in-between” stage of a painting is normal. Push through it. Sometimes the pieces you’re unsure about end up teaching you the most.

At The Creative Easel, we believe in progress over perfection and finding joy in the process. You don’t need to be a “natural-born artist”—you just need to keep painting.

So grab your brushes, give yourself some grace, and enjoy the journey.

~Lori & Tracy