Bridge near Giverny

Sketch the bridge and landscape contours using charcoal or thinned paint. Focus on the outline and mass of the forms rather than details.

Tip — Ensure the sketch is light enough to be covered by subsequent layers.

Contour drawing

Apply a grisaille underpainting using black, ultramarine, and white. Establish the light and shadow values of the scene.

Tip — Use a medium like oil of copavia to facilitate smooth application. Allow to dry completely.

Grisaille

Begin applying color using glazing and scumbling techniques. Glaze transparent layers of yellow and red tones over the dry grisaille to introduce warmth.

Tip — Ensure the underlayer is dry to prevent muddying. Apply thin, transparent coats.

Glazing

Build up the paint layers following the 'fat over lean' rule. Each subsequent layer should contain more oil than the previous one to ensure proper drying and prevent cracking.

Tip — Monitor the oil content in your mixtures. Use linseed oil for later layers.

Fat over lean

Use palette knives and brushes to adjust texture and form. Oil paint remains wet longer, allowing for changes in color and texture.

Tip — You can scrape off wet paint with a rag and turpentine if adjustments are needed.

Palette knife application

Finalize the color harmony and light effects. Avoid darkening colors by adding black; instead, use complementary colors to neutralize and darken without shifting hue.

Tip — Check for hue shifts when lightening colors with white; correct with adjacent colors if necessary.

Color mixing

Allow the painting to dry completely (up to two weeks) before applying a varnish if desired for protection and sheen.

Tip — Ensure the paint is fully oxidized to prevent trapping solvents.

Varnishing