plate no. 3251

The Seamstress

Joseph DeCamp, 1916

oil, canvasImpressionismgenre paintingfigurewindowcurtainstableinteriorsewing

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students understand subtle color mixing and how to depict light filtering through fabric. It also provides practice in capturing the human figure in a relaxed, natural pose.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 15 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the figure, window, and table.
step 02
Establish the background with light washes of color, capturing the diffused light coming through the window.
step 03
Block in the main shapes of the figure, paying attention to the folds of the dress and the fall of light.
step 04
Develop the details of the face and hands, using subtle variations in tone and color.
step 05
Add details to the curtains, capturing the texture and folds of the fabric.
step 06
Refine the table and other objects, paying attention to reflections and highlights.
step 07
Adjust the overall color balance and value contrast to create a sense of harmony.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to complete the painting.

color palette

primary · titanium white · yellow ochre · raw umber · burnt sienna

secondary · ultramarine blue · alizarin crimson

Achieve the subtle whites by mixing titanium white with small amounts of yellow ochre, raw umber, and ultramarine blue. Use burnt sienna and alizarin crimson for the reddish tones in the hair and face.

techniques