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How do you merge paints?

Published in Painting Techniques 2 mins read

To merge paints seamlessly and avoid visible patches, it's crucial to use the right technique and tools.

Here's a breakdown of how to effectively merge paints:

Merging Paints: Techniques & Tools

  • Preparation: Don't mix colors directly on your palette to begin with when merging. Instead, place the two colors you want to blend side by side on your palette.
  • Blending Brush: The key to seamless blending is a soft brush.
    • Recommended: A fan brush or filbert brush are excellent choices for blending.
    • Avoid: Steer clear of stiff bristle brushes, as these can create harsh, defined edges instead of a smooth merge.
  • Application:
    1. Apply your two colors next to each other on your canvas or surface.
    2. Using your soft blending brush, gently brush back and forth over the area where the colors meet.
    3. Continue blending with a light touch until you achieve the desired merge.
    4. Be patient, it takes a light touch and a bit of time.
  • Benefits: By using these techniques and tools, you can avoid hard edges and create a smooth transition between colors.

Table of Tools and Their Uses

Tool Use
Soft Blending Brush Creating seamless transitions between colors
Fan Brush Excellent for blending and creating soft effects
Filbert Brush Versatile for blending, particularly for curved areas
Stiff Bristle Brush Not Recommended: May cause harsh lines and edges

Key Takeaways

  • Soft Brushes: Always prioritize soft blending brushes for smooth transitions.
  • Avoid Direct Mixing: Placing colors side-by-side, on your palette, allows for better control when blending.
  • Light Touch: Apply a light touch while blending to avoid abrupt color changes.
  • Patience: Blending may take some time, be patient with the process.

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