So you have some spare spots on the wall that you would like to put some art work.  You’ve looked around but really haven’t come across any paintings that you like, let alone can afford.  Well let me tell you a secret, you can become an artist and fill those spots yourself.

     If you can’t draw, no problem.  You’ve probably seen paintings that looked like someone just splashed or spilled paint on a canvas ( and that’s probably what they did), you too can do that.  Go and get yourself some water color paints first and some paper.  This can easily be found at your local dollar store.  Practice with shapes, spilling, fingers, sponges, anything you want.  When you are ready, you can either keep to water colors or take a step up to oils.

     Oils are a little more difficult in that you need to have a special canvas to work with and I suggest you get some linseed oil.  Linseed oil makes the oil paint go on smoother and you need less paint.  If you will be doing layers, allow the oil paint to dry first.  This may take 3 or more days.  When I paint, I do it all at once but sometimes I’ve gotten the canvas too wet and it really takes awhile to dry and if not laying flat, the canvas will bow a little.  Once your painting is done, a shellac over the oil painting is recommended.

     If you have a local craft store, like Michaels, once a week or month they have a coupon for 40% off any regular price item.  This would be a good time to go and get either your canvas or oils, anything that would be the most expensive.  I’ve also have found some nice paints and brushes in second stores and at yard sales.

     After you get all your items home, start creating.  Enjoy, and who knows, maybe you’ll become a famous artist.  Side note:  If you are on ebay, there’s a group called Nibblefest.  You may want to join there too.