Painting Tips for Beginners (From What We See in Class)
People often arrive at our workshops saying the same thing:
“I’m not creative” or “I haven’t painted since school.”
What they usually mean is that they don’t trust themselves yet.
At ART-LI, we work with beginners every week. Over time, patterns become obvious — not just in technique, but in how people approach painting. The tips below are not theoretical. They’re based on what consistently helps people relax, progress, and enjoy the process.
Start with acrylic paint
For beginners, acrylic paint is simply the most practical choice.
It’s water-based, dries quickly, and allows corrections without much effort. That matters more than people think. When paint dries fast, hesitation disappears. When mistakes can be painted over, people take more risks.
In our classes, we mainly use acrylics from the Solo Goya range because they’re reliable without being intimidating. Here you can find the Solo Goya Acrylic Paint Set.
Don’t overinvest in materials at the beginning
There’s a quiet misconception that better materials automatically lead to better results. In reality, expensive tools often create pressure.
Beginners tend to paint more freely when the materials feel replaceable. Once confidence grows, quality becomes relevant. At the start, freedom matters more than precision.
This is why many participants paint more confidently during a workshop than at home — the environment removes the fear of “wasting” something.
Avoid detailed sketches
One of the most common habits we see is over-planning. People sketch every detail, then feel stuck once the painting starts to change.
Painting works better when the first phase stays loose:
large shapes instead of outlines
background before foreground
details only at the end
This approach leaves room for the painting to evolve instead of being forced into a fixed idea.
Expect an awkward phase
Most paintings go through a stage where they don’t look good. This isn’t a failure; it’s part of the process.
Beginners often stop at this point. More experienced painters continue working through it. The difference isn’t skill — it’s tolerance for uncertainty.
In class, we usually mention this phase in advance. Knowing it’s coming makes it easier to continue.
Use larger brushes than you think you need
Small brushes feel safe, but they often lead to stiffness.
Larger brushes encourage broader movements and reduce overthinking. They help establish structure and balance before getting lost in details.
Details are easier to add than structure.
Acrylic Brush Set – Large Sizes
Painting is learned, not discovered
Creativity is not a personality trait. It’s a skill that develops through repetition, observation, and time.
Most people who believe they “can’t paint” simply haven’t practiced in a supportive setting. Structured classes help because they remove friction — not because of talent, but because of guidance and pacing.
If you’re based in Munich and want to explore painting in a relaxed, guided environment, you can find our current workshops here:
https://www.art-li.com
A final note
Painting doesn’t need confidence to begin. Confidence usually comes later.
What matters is starting, staying with the process, and allowing the work to change along the way.
