In this post, I’m going to walk you step-by-step through my entire painting process: drawing the underpainting using broad straight lines, establishing major shadow shapes, organising value, controlling edges, and then refining the portrait with highlights. For this demonstration, I painted it digitally (Procreate) so you can clearly see each stage - but the workflow applies perfectly to oil painting too. Want to start your own underpainting today? Grab my free Raw Umber Unde

Discover the easiest underpainting method for beginners: the Raw Umber Wash. Learn how to build values, control paint, and create structure using just one colour - perfect for easing the transition from drawing to oil painting.

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “fat over lean” in oil painting but weren’t quite sure what it meant, you’re not alone. This classic rule is essential for keeping your paintings stable and crack-free over time - yet it’s often misunderstood. In this post, I break down exactly what “fat over lean” means, why it matters, and how to apply it step by step in your own work. Plus, a glimpse of how I’ll cover layering, mediums, and drying control in my upcoming oil painting course.