Brush Off! The Joy of Painting with a Palette Knife

Countless artists around the world choose to express themselves on canvas with a paint brush. But what if you want to be a little different from the crowd?

 

Ever considered painting with a palette knife?

 

The effect of palette knife painting is much more textured and vivid than the same work which has been created by a regular brush. If you think you might be interested in experimenting with a palette knife, here is a quick primer on the technique:

 

1. Hold a palette knife like you would a brush. That is, let the knife rest across the insides of your four fingers so you are gripping like a pencil – not a ball.
2. Take a generous amount of acrylic paint and “glob” it onto the canvas. Start pushing it around the surface.
3. After some practice, you’ll get an idea of the types of shapes and textures that the various edges of a palette knife can create. (Hint: work from light color shades to dark.)
4. Observe how the paint dries. You’ll get a better understanding of the different facets of your work during this process.
5. Wipe your palette knife clean with a lint-free rag (perhaps with a bit of cleaning solution).

 

Susannah Virginia Griffin has created brilliant works of art using the palette knife technique. Many of these paintings can be found throughout her various collections, which can be accessed on the left side of the page.

 

So if you want to broaden your creative horizons a bit, go out and get yourself a palette knife from an art supply shop (or a hardware store, if you want to save a little money) and see what artistry springs from your fingertips!