How to Start a Painting

You may think you just get out paint and paper and GO, but it's a little more complicated than that.

First, you need to:

• Think about your plan.
• Put down your idea on paper in the form of a simple sketch.
• If you can't think of an idea
• Get a book from the book shelf
• Close your eyes and think
• Make a list of things you like and dislike
• If you're not sure of the details of the image, get a laptop from the laptop cart!

There are many ways to start a painting, and this is one.

1. Get a piece of nice, thick paper. (If you're paper isn't thick, it might rip because of too much water!)

2. Write your name on your paper and class code with pencil. This will be the back of your painting. (Don't write it with Sharpie or it will probably go through to the other side!)

3. Turn your paper over and, using a pencil, sketch out your painting. Draw lightly so it's easy to erase.

4. Paint your background first, and then the area around it. Your goal is to paint first and add details later.

5. Finish painting in the rest of the area (don't add details yet!).

6. Finally, it's time to add details!