To use tempera paint effectively, prepare your workspace, choose your application method, and experiment with different techniques.
Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Preparation is Key:
- Workspace: Cover your work surface with newspaper or a drop cloth to protect it from spills.
- Materials: Gather your tempera paint, brushes (various sizes), sponges, water container, palette (or paper plate), and your chosen surface (paper, canvas, cardboard, etc.).
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in your workspace.
2. Dispensing the Paint:
- Palette: Squeeze a small amount of each color onto your palette or paper plate. Tempera paint dries relatively quickly, so start with small amounts and add more as needed.
- Water: Keep a container of clean water nearby to thin the paint if desired, and to clean your brushes.
3. Application Techniques:
- Brushing:
- Dip your brush into the paint, removing any excess on the edge of the palette.
- Apply the paint to your surface using smooth, even strokes.
- Layer the paint for richer color and texture.
- Sponging:
- Dab a sponge into your chosen color.
- Lightly dab the sponge onto the canvas or paper to create textured effects.
- Experiment with different types of sponges for varying textures.
- Other Techniques: You can also experiment with techniques like stippling (using the tip of the brush to create dots), dry brushing (using a brush with very little paint for a textured effect), and washes (thinning the paint with water for transparent layers).
4. Tips for Success:
- Thinning: Tempera paint can be thinned with water for washes or to make it easier to apply. Add water gradually to avoid making the paint too runny.
- Layering: Tempera paint can be layered, but allow each layer to dry before applying the next.
- Mixing: Tempera paints mix well together to create new colors. Experiment with different color combinations.
- Clean-up: Clean your brushes and sponges immediately after use with soap and water. Dried tempera paint can be difficult to remove.
- Storage: Store your tempera paints in airtight containers to prevent them from drying out.
5. Experimentation:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and color combinations to find what works best for you.
- Try using different surfaces, such as paper, canvas, wood, or cardboard, to see how the paint behaves on each.
