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Thepalette knifeisnt just a tool for mixing paint on your palette.
What is Palette Knife Painting?
Palette knife paintingis a term used to describe theimpastotechnique of applying paint to canvas using a painting knife.
TheStarry Nightby Vincentvan Gogh(Photo:Wikimedia Commons) Public Domain
19th-century master painterVincent van Goghis one artist who was known to use the method.
Other past artists who used both painting knives and brushes includePaul Cezanne, Marc Chagall, andHenri Matisse.
Apalette knifeis usually straight, has a rounded tip, and is designed for mixing paints on the palette.
Blick Multi-Colored Painting Knife Set| $48.90
Their shape helps keep your fingers out of the wet paint you’ve just applied.
When using a pointed knife for daubs of paint, simply dip the tip into the paint.
Hold the handle firmly with your thumb on top and use your wrist to change angles on the canvas.
Stock Photosfrom Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock
There are many effects you might achieve depending on your movements.
Heres some to try:
To clean your knife, simply wipe it onto a cloth.
This style of painting can often mean your work will take months to dry completely.
ensure to store your finished canvases carefully so that nothing can smudge the paint.
Its also a good idea to apply a layer of protective glaze once its dry.
Stock Photosfrom Monika Wisniewska/Shutterstock
Ready to get started?
Here are some contemporary palette knife paintings to inspire you.
