We all know the feeling. That image of a painting we had at the beginning doesn’t quite fit the final result. Our skills do not seem adequately suited to the project in mind. So, what can we do to get there? How to improve your painting skills is the number one question that faces us. One way is to regularly attend painting classes. However, there are others, so let’s take a look at some proven ways of improvement.

1. Plan ahead

“Fail to plan, plan to fail”, as the timeworn expression goes. What is true in life is also true in painting. if you are unsure how to handle a part of a painting, take time to plan how you are going to tackle it. It is time well spent if you are going to have a successful result.

2. Practice makes perfect

Practice! More practice! And yet more practice! Such an approach seems to go without saying but it’s so very true. Improvement goes hand in hand with regular practice, even if you can manage only 10 – 15 minutes sometimes. Elements such as repetitive brushstrokes and colour mixing will help develop your skills like no other activity. But, remember to enjoy the process, don’t be frightened of making mistakes!. Consider every mistake you make a learning process and get it right next time.

3. Become familiar with the materials

Oils, water colours, acrylics, all behave differently so it’s important that you get to know the properties of each. In addition, you should learn how to create a proper painting surface in relation to the medium you are using. This knowledge will help how to improve your painting skills and imbue you with confidence going forward.

4. Simplify

Simplifying form is an excellent method to develop. Try to breakdown an image into a series of shapes, colours and so on. Start by roughly sketching the subject as a series of shapes, circles, squares, etc. Then build in your colour palette in blocks. This is a great way to practice and to train your brain.

5. Be critical and address your weaknesses

This is a great way to improve. Be honest about your weaknesses and address them. Ask others to contribute their feedback about your work in a frank yet positive manner. Once you’ve mastered any apparent weaknesses, your confidence will grow.

6. Attend an art class

Finally, one of the most direct and effective ways of how to improve your painting skills is to attend a reputable art class. When you have found one, take care to look at the testimonials of people who have attended. This is a great way to establish the validity of the class. The “Art Your Way” classes, run by Jill Jones in her custom-built studio, are a good place to start. Dates and times are very flexible and can be made to suit your own schedule and level of ability.

Call Jill on 01437 781386 or email art@jilljones.co.uk to book a place in a class.