Oil Painting Starter Guide: Tools, Tips & Techniques
Welcome to Oil Painting!
Whether you’re just getting started or refining your craft, this guide outlines the essential tools and materials for a successful oil painting session. These are the products I use and recommend in my classes and my own studio.
*Note: Many links in this guide are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you — thank you for supporting my work!*
🛠 Basic Supplies Checklist:
• Oil paints (student or artist grade) list and links below
• Brushes (synthetic and bristle, various sizes)
• Canvas or panel
• Odorless solvent (e.g., Gamsol)
• Medium (e.g., Liquin)
• Palette
• Palette knife
• Paper towels or rag
• Easel (optional)
• Apron or smock
🎨 Pro Tips for Oil Painting Beginners
• Work 'fat over lean' – use more oil in top layers to avoid cracking.
• Wipe your brush frequently to avoid muddy color.
• Use a limited palette – it helps with harmony (try red, yellow, blue + white).
• Sketch lightly before painting – charcoal or thinned paint works great.
• Keep ventilation in mind when working indoors.
🛒 Suggested Products with Links
• Windsor Newton -Cadmium Green Pale
• Windsor Newton -Manganese Blue Hue
• Windsor Newton -Scarlet Lake
• Windsor Newton -Yellow Ochre
• Utrecht -Alizarin Crimson Permanent
Affiliate Disclosure: I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links — at no extra cost to you.