How to Start a Painting: Tools That Add Energy & Flow
Let’s talk about that first layer. You know—the one that stares back at you like a big ol’ blank wall going, “Sooo… now what?”
I used to freeze in front of a fresh canvas, trying to get it just right from the beginning. Not anymore. These days, I treat the first layer like a playground. It’s where I let loose, shake off the pressure, and get the energy flowing. Even if your mediums, substrates, or tools look totally different from mine, I hope this approach—breaking through resistance, moving your body, and making that first mark—helps you step into your studio (whatever that looks like) with more freedom.
Tools I’m Loving Right Now for That Messy, Magical First Layer:
I snapped a photo (below) of what was on my table that day. It’s nothing fancy, but wow do these supplies pack a punch (I do not have any affiliation with Amazon):
POSCA paint pens – instant color, super satisfying to layer
Charcoal & Stabilo pencils – moody lines and scribbles? Yes please *note: these are water-soluble. So have fun with spraying water and moving those freshly made lines around!
Spray bottle – for drips and unexpected magic
Spray paint – bold, fast, and full of movement
India ink – for those inky, emotional marks I can’t get enough of
Some days, I prep before painting by journaling and meditating, especially when my brain is running in five directions and I need to come back to myself. Other days—like this one—I skip the calm and go straight into chaos (the good kind).
I turned up the music (loud), started dancing, and just let the marks happen. (like in this video here) I wrote whatever lyrics were blasting through the speaker—words like dance, move, love—in big bold spray paint and messy India ink. That kind of start? It makes the rest of the painting process feel like a conversation instead of a chore. Enjoy the gallery below showing initial layers on my new summer series.
If you ever feel stuck in front of a blank canvas, I hope you’ll remember this: blast your favorite song, grab a tool (or five), and let your hands move before your brain kicks in.
I’d love to know—what do you do to get into your creative flow? Comment below!
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