“How to Paint a Young Man in White” in 30 Minutes

/ 30-Minute Acrylic Portrait Step-by-Step Tutorial Video Tutorial
/ By Matt Philleo
/ 6 COMMENTS

Thank you to everyone who left encouraging comments and kind words on my first episode of the “30-Minute Acrylic Portrait.” Now, it’s on to Episode #2.

For today’s portrait, I’ll be painting a picture of a young man dressed in white, named Mohammed.

30-Minute Acrylic Portrait reference photo — Reference photo for 30-Minute Acrylic Portrait, used with permission from Ray Comfort at Living Waters Publications

How did I come across this photo?

Well, I was looking for interesting reference images to paint from, scouring the internet and couldn’t find much. Even stock photo sites like Pexels and Pixabay came up short.

Then I recalled a YouTube channel that I frequently watch (or have playing in the background as I paint): Living Waters.

On this channel, there are literally hundreds of videos of people being interviewed by Ray Comfort, a Christian author, evangelist and short movie producer. Every person is different and unique. I noticed the lighting on several of these interesting characters was fantastic, and the video quality high enough that I could grab some screenshots of the footage and then paint from them.

Living Waters images used for Matt Philleo portrait paintings — Living Waters YouTube Channel–reference photos for paintings, used with permission

Of course, I needed to get permission first.

So I contacted the ministry’s general email address, and got an expected automated response.

The next day, however, I got an unexpected call from Ray Comfort, granting me permission to paint portraits based on his videos. I was blown away by his generosity and thought this was also another confirmation from God to continue doing the series. I should have enough images to keep me busy for months, maybe even years. 🙂

So here we go.

Season 1, Episode 2 of the 30-Minute Acrylic Portrait…

As always, let me know what you think of this video. I encourage you to try this exercise for yourself. You don’t have to feel pressured to come up with a masterpiece. Just enjoy the process and see what you can do within half an hour.

Or you might just want to keep watching these videos for fun, sipping some coffee or tea. 🙂 Either way, thank you for watching, and I look forward to sharing more with you.

Yours for better portraits,

P.S. Did you find this post helpful or encouraging? If so, send it on ahead! Let others know with the share buttons below. I’d love to hear your comments. Thank you so much! Also, do you have a question on acrylic portrait painting you’d like answered? Let me know, and I’d be happy to help!

How to Paint Oval Vignette Acrylic Portrait Timelapse

/ Flesh Tones Glazing Timelapse Tips and Techniques Video Tutorial
/ By Matt Philleo

Step-by-step techniques for an elegant oval vignette in acrylic portrait

Creating an acrylic portrait with an oval vignette style is an inspiring technique that allows your subject to stand out elegantly, adding focus and artistry. In this timelapse guide, I’ll walk you through how to achieve an oval vignette acrylic portrait using a unique glazing method. This technique helps you build depth, enhance color vibrancy, and create a finish that rivals the luminosity of oil paintings.

Understanding the Oval Vignette Technique

An oval vignette composition is a traditional approach that frames your subject in a subtle, softly blurred oval shape, gently drawing attention to the portrait’s focal point. This timeless style is ideal for achieving classic, professional results, whether you’re creating family portraits or a commissioned piece.

Step 1: Preparing Your Canvas with Initial Layers

To begin, prep the canvas with a light layer of matte medium and diluted paint. Use raw umber dark, ultramarine blue, and a dash of burnt sienna. This combination will set up foundational tones that help bring warmth and depth later on. Thin layers will be added progressively, each enhancing the portrait’s tonal structure.

Step 2: Blocking in Values and Colors

Blocking in your values provides a strong base for your portrait:

Start Light: Use thin washes of paint to gradually build values, beginning with the mid-tones.
Add Color with Glazing: Introduce alizarine crimson and phthalo green in thin layers for the skin, adding natural, warm undertones.
Maintain Balance: Rather than finishing one section entirely, work across the canvas, applying each color to corresponding areas simultaneously. This approach keeps the portrait harmonious.

Step 3: Building Depth with Glazing Layers

The glazing technique is key to creating a portrait that radiates depth and realism:

Multiple Layers: Up to 100 ultra-thin layers can be used to achieve a fully nuanced look.
Lighting Effects: The translucent quality of these layers allows light to reflect off the canvas, creating a sense of depth and vibrancy.
Oil-Like Finish: This glazing method adds a polish that can make acrylics resemble the look of oil paints, with soft transitions and a luminous finish.

Step 4: Enhancing Realism with Fine Details

As the portrait evolves, focus on adding detail:

Nuances in Features: To make eyes, lips, and hair appear lifelike, add details like eyelash shadows, fine lines in the lips, and highlights in the irises.
Gradual Shading: Build up shading in areas like the cheeks, nose, and forehead. A steady hand and attention to small value changes will achieve the realism you want.
Background and Clothing: Layer in small color adjustments to enhance textures, like the folds of clothing or woodwork in the background.

Step 5: Adding Highlights and Final Touches

In the final stages, highlights and refined details bring the portrait to completion:

Bright Highlights: Use titanium white mixed with matte medium to add precise highlights to areas like the nose, cheekbones, and chin.
Softened Borders: To emphasize the oval vignette, blend the edges softly with a semi-dry brush, ensuring a smooth transition from the background to the portrait.
Review Consistency: Check that all areas of the portrait have been equally developed. Avoid leaving any section overly detailed compared to others, maintaining a cohesive finish.

Tips and Techniques for Glazing Success

Patience is Key: Building 50-100 layers takes time, but this patience will bring richness and realism.
Use Matte Medium: It helps dilute the paint to the desired transparency, preserving color vibrancy without compromising texture.
Rotate Colors: Alternate between colors like raw umber, burnt sienna, and ultramarine blue to create depth and dimension.
Light Source Consideration: Adjust shading to reflect your portrait’s light source, helping facial features feel three-dimensional.
Avoid Overworking: While glazing layers add depth, too much reworking can muddy colors. Stick to thin, controlled applications.

Why Glazing Works for Acrylic Portraits

Glazing layers allow light to pass through, reflecting back and adding dimension. Each transparent layer builds on the one before, creating complex color variations. This effect gives the portrait an oil-like appearance, a finish that’s often praised for acrylics. The difference in visual depth between these layers keeps the painting from looking flat and enhances the vignette effect around your subject.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Colors Look Flat: This can happen if the layers are too thick. Thin out each layer with matte medium and add layers patiently to avoid oversaturation.
Difficulty with Vignette Edges: Keep edges soft by blending them with a nearly dry brush, creating that gentle fade that defines a vignette style.
Struggle with Skin Tones: Experiment with a mix of warm and cool shades like raw sienna, burnt sienna, and phthalo green, adjusting layers until the desired tone is achieved.

Final Thoughts

Creating an oval vignette acrylic portrait is a wonderful way to highlight your subject and create a stunning effect that draws the viewer’s eye. With glazing, you can achieve depth and richness that elevate your work and add a touch of timeless beauty. Try this technique on your next portrait to experience the difference it makes in achieving realism and sophistication.

For more tips on acrylic portrait painting, glazing methods, and tutorials on creating depth and realism, visit my site at realisticacrylic.com. This technique, along with many others, will enhance your skills and add a professional touch to your portraits.

Let me know how you enjoyed this video, and if you have any questions on acrylic portrait painting, I’ll be happy to help.

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How to Paint an Acrylic Portrait in 30 Minutes

/ 30-Minute Acrylic Portrait Step-by-Step Tutorial Video Tutorial
/ By Matt Philleo
/ 26 COMMENTS

Discover the quick and simple method to capture portraits with speed and precision

As a child, I was amazed as I watched “The Joy of Painting” host Bob Ross paint a beautiful landscape in less than 30 minutes. I was captivated by his gentle touch, his fast wet-on-wet technique, and the way he could totally put you at ease.

I can’t say I wanted to be just like Bob when I grew up, but he did help inspire me to paint.

Later on, I learned the more methodical glazing technique from Norbert Kox, where you apply layer after layer of translucent paint. It’s very time consuming, but it creates fantastic realistic effects. This is the style I have become known for.

But sometimes I just want to knock out a quick painting, have fun with it, and yet push myself.

Can I paint a somewhat respectable looking painting in half an hour?

If I do it often, will I get faster?

Could it help me paint faster, and more confidently in my “typical” more detailed portraits?

Could an exercise like this help YOU to do the same?

There’s only one way to find out.

So, with that, I’m launching a new series of videos, or something like a show called, “The 30-Minute Acrylic Portrait” Season One, Episode 1…

Tips for Success in Fast-Paced Portrait Painting

Set a Timer: Keep yourself on track by setting a timer. This helps maintain focus and prevents overworking areas.
Keep Your Palette Organized: Lay out your colors clearly, so you can mix shades quickly without delay.
Use a Limited Palette: Working with fewer colors will simplify the process and give the portrait a harmonious look.
Practice Blocking and Simplifying: Learn to capture shapes and shadows quickly by focusing on big-picture composition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Focusing Too Much on Detail: With only 30 minutes, try to avoid getting caught up in minute details.
Using Too Many Colors: Stick with a few main colors for consistency and ease.
Overthinking the Process: Embrace a relaxed approach, letting the process unfold naturally.

Conclusion

Creating a 30-minute acrylic portrait requires simplifying techniques, focusing on essential shapes, and mastering the art of blocking in shadows and highlights. This method allows for creative expression while enhancing your confidence and ability to capture a portrait quickly. Practice makes perfect, so keep experimenting with colors, tones, and brush techniques.

Read more about my additional resources, tutorials, to learn more and check out my free courses here. . Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, there’s always something new to learn and apply to your paintings. Happy painting!

Let me know what you think of this video. Is it helpful? Interesting? Would you like to see more?

I’d love to hear back from you with your honest thoughts.

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Almost as Good as a Trip to the Art Museum

Recently, I was browsing a couple of my favorite YouTube channels, and a fellow portrait painter that I look up to, Mark Carder, mentioned this amazing free resource for artists on his vlog.

I checked it out and was excited.

I’m not sure if you live near an art museum or gallery, but in my opinion, nothing fuels inspiration more for realistic portrait painting than studying the works of the masters–like Rembrandt, Caravaggio, or Sargent. Seeing how they composed their paintings, chose their colors, applied their brushstrokes can encourage you to go higher with your own realistic painting skills. But most of us, even if we do have access to the museum, don’t have time to take the trip.

However, you can virtually take a trip to the museum with this free collection of high-resolution art images online.

I’ll tell you about it (and show it to you) in this video…

Let me know if you find this helpful!

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How to Paint Two Bubble Frame Oval Acrylic Portraits

Unlock the secrets to creating captivating two bubble frame oval acrylic portraits

Painting two bubble frame oval acrylic portraits offers a unique opportunity to explore creativity and technique while crafting eye-catching artwork. In this guide, you’ll discover the essential steps to create stunning portraits that showcase not only your artistic skills but also the charming oval frames that elevate your paintings. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, you’ll learn how to blend colors effectively, capture realistic features, and compose your portraits for maximum impact. Let’s dive into the world of acrylic painting and bring your two bubble frame oval acrylic portraits to life!

How is my portrait project coming along?

“Um, I haven’t even started it yet.”

“Oh. Could you do another one and get it done for me by Christmas?”

“Let me check. Sure.”

This is kind of how the conversation went when a client called me on a portrait project that I had scheduled out for a few months. I was backed up with commissions, and it was already well into December.

Do another portrait when I was already behind? Why not? I thrive on a little deadline pressure. I’ve got an extra reserve of midnight oil 🙂

So here are the portraits I created, two convex-oval 14″ x 20″ acrylic on canvas paintings. I decided to work on both at once. And I got them both done in time, too, by God’s grace!

Two Bubble Frame Oval Acrylic Portraits — Two oval acrylic portraits painted on vintage convex bubble frame prints, original custom portrait painted from photos for Steve Kristo, by Matt Philleo, Eau Claire artist, ©2018 Fine Art by Matt Philleo

And now I want to show you how I painted them. I’ll take you through the process from the colors I select for the palette, the first few layers, all the way to the completed painting.

How I Painted These Oval Vintage Acrylic Portraits

This tutorial is a work in progress, so I’ll be adding more videos in the future!

Keep in touch and I’ll let you know when I post the next one!

Learn How to Paint Acrylic Portraits With My Best Fine Art Tips!

Let me know how this tutorial helps!

Have you ever painted on an oval canvas or unusual surface before? If so, leave a comment and tell me about it. Have a blessed day!

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How to Build Depth in Your Acrylic Portrait Backgrounds

/ Backgrounds Glazing How to Paint Children and Babies Video Tutorial
/ By Matt Philleo
/ 21 COMMENTS

Learn the art of layering to create stunning backgrounds

Creating depth in your acrylic portrait backgrounds can transform your artwork from flat and uninviting to vibrant and lifelike. This comprehensive guide will explore techniques and tips that can be utilized to effectively build depth in your acrylic paintings. Through careful layering, color mixing, and thoughtful brushwork, your backgrounds will not only enhance your portraits but also engage viewers and add emotional resonance.

learn acrylic portrait painting children — Acrylic portrait painting of three children, by artist Matt Philleo, 16 x 20, acrylic on canvas

Understanding Depth in Art

Depth in art refers to the illusion of three-dimensionality on a two-dimensional surface. It involves creating a sense of space, distance, and perspective. In acrylic portrait painting, the background plays a crucial role in establishing depth and can significantly influence the viewer’s perception of the subject.

Techniques for Building Depth

1. Layering with Glazes

Layering is one of the most effective techniques for creating depth. It involves applying transparent layers of paint over one another, allowing underlying colors and textures to show through.

Start with a Base Layer: Begin with a solid background color that will serve as your foundation. A mid-tone color can be effective for this purpose.
Apply Transparent Glazes: Use a mix of acrylic paint and a glazing medium to create transparent layers. Ultramarine blue and raw umber dark can be mixed to achieve subtle variations.

By layering these glazes, different values can be developed. The key is to allow each layer to dry before applying the next, which helps to create a sense of depth through the transparency and complexity of the colors.

2. Creating Gradation

Gradation can be used to suggest distance and atmosphere in your backgrounds. This can be achieved through both blending and glazing techniques.

Segmented Areas: Instead of blending wet colors, use segmented areas of glazing to create smooth transitions. By touching certain areas while leaving others untouched, a subtle blend can be achieved. This method provides a more natural appearance and enhances the depth of the painting.
Use of Color Temperature: Varying color temperature can add to the perception of depth. Cool colors, such as blues and greens, can recede in the background, while warmer tones tend to come forward. For instance, using a cooler ultramarine blue in the background while maintaining warmer tones in the foreground can create a compelling contrast.

3. Employing Contrast

Contrast is essential in making your subject stand out against the background. By darkening background areas, the foreground subjects will naturally become more pronounced.

Darkening Techniques: When applying darker glazes, consider how the light interacts with your subject. By ensuring that the background is darker than the portrait, the subjects will appear more luminous.

This can be particularly effective when using glazes, as they dry quickly, allowing for rapid layering without mudding colors. As highlighted in the video, the layering properties of acrylics can be leveraged to achieve a depth that feels rich and engaging.

4. Incorporating Patterns and Textures

Adding textures or patterns can create interest in the background and contribute to the overall depth of the painting.

Marble-like Backgrounds: A painterly, marble-like appearance can be achieved by varying brush strokes and layering colors. Short, diagonal strokes can create a textured effect that draws the viewer’s eye without overwhelming the portrait.

This not only enhances depth but also gives the background a dynamic quality that complements the portrait.

Tips for Effective Backgrounds

Use a Limited Palette: A limited color palette can help maintain harmony in your painting. This also makes it easier to create depth, as the colors will blend and layer more cohesively.
Experiment with Brush Techniques: Different brush types and strokes can create varying effects. Experimenting with short strokes, glazing, and layering will allow for discovering unique methods of adding depth.
Balance Between Foreground and Background: Always consider the balance of colors and values between your foreground and background. This ensures that your subject remains the focal point while the background supports its presence.
Stay Patient: Building depth takes time. Allow layers to dry completely between applications to achieve the best results.

Conclusion

Building depth in your acrylic portrait backgrounds is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly enhance your artwork. By employing layering techniques, creating gradation, utilizing contrast, and incorporating textures, your backgrounds will not only support your subjects but also engage viewers on a deeper level.

As you continue to practice and refine these techniques, your portraits will come to life, showcasing the beauty of depth in acrylic painting. The journey of learning and experimenting is essential for any artist, and through consistent practice, remarkable improvements will be evident in your work.

With these insights, you are now equipped to enhance your acrylic portrait backgrounds and bring your artistic vision to life. For further resources and guides, visit realisticacrylic.com and check out my free courses to enhance your acrylic painting journey. Happy painting!

The Video Lesson…

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Let me know how this helps! If you have questions on your portrait painting, feel free to contact me ([email protected])

Yours for better portraits,

P.S. Did you find this post helpful or encouraging? If so, send it on ahead! Let others know with the share buttons below. I’d love to hear your comments. Thank you so much! Also, do you have a question on acrylic portrait painting you’d like answered? Let me know, and I’d be happy to help!

Would you like to learn portrait painting from me in person?

I’d like to let you know that I’ll be teaching at the Chippewa Valley Cultural Association (Heyde Center for the Arts, Chippewa Falls, WI) on March 12-13, 10:30am-3:30pm, a two-day intensive acrylic portrait painting workshop. The class size is limited to 10 people to make sure I can give each student feedback and individual instruction. For more details, visit my events page here…https://realisticacrylic.com/paint-an-acrylic-portrait-with-me-in-2019/

acrylic portrait painting workshop Eau Claire, Chippewa

Paint an Acrylic Portrait With Me in 2019!

/ Events In-Person Teaching
/ By Matt Philleo

Would you like to learn portrait painting from me in person?

I’d like to let you know that I’ll be teaching at the Chippewa Valley Cultural Association (Heyde Center for the Arts, Chippewa Falls, WI) on March 12-13, 10:30am-3:30pm, a two-day intensive acrylic portrait painting workshop. The class size is limited to 10 people to make sure I can give each student feedback and individual instruction.

Learn more/ register by clicking the image below…

acrylic portrait painting workshop Chippewa Valley Eau Claire WI

Learn how to paint realistic acrylic portraits with a two-day intensive , held at the Heyde Center in Chippewa Falls, WI workshop by artist Matt Philleo on March 12-13, 10:30-3:30pm

If you live or will be in the St. Paul/ Minneapolis-Eau Claire, WI area around that time and would like to learn how to paint with me, I would love to see you then!

Or maybe you know someone that may be interested. Could you please let them know about this? Thank you so much! Let me know if you have any questions.

Yours for better portraits,

P.S. Did you find this post helpful or encouraging? If so, send it on ahead! Let others know with the share buttons below. I’d love to hear your comments. Thank you so much! Also, do you have a question on acrylic portrait painting you’d like answered? Let me know, and I’d be happy to help!

Realistic Acrylic Portrait School, awarded 10 Top Acrylic Painting Blogs for 2019, by Feedspot.

How to Paint 8 x 10 Realistic Acrylic Portrait Timelapse

Just prior to Christmas, I finished this portrait of a local engineer.

Creating a realistic acrylic portrait can be a rewarding experience, especially when utilizing the glazing technique. This method involves layering transparent paints to build depth and luminosity in your artwork. In this tutorial, a step-by-step guide is provided to help artists of all levels achieve impressive results in an 8 x 10 portrait.

Understanding the Glazing Technique

The glazing technique is foundational in creating depth and realism in acrylic painting. It is characterized by the application of thin, transparent layers of color, allowing the underlying layers to shine through. This method is often compared to photography, where an image starts light and gradually gains depth.

Materials Required

Before beginning, ensure that the following materials are prepared:

Acrylic paints: Ultramarine blue, brownish tone (raw umber or dark), and skin tones
Clear acrylic matte medium
Brushes: Small round brushes, flat brushes, and a small detail brush
Palette for mixing colors
Canvas (8 x 10 inches recommended)
Water for rinsing brushes

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Preparing the Background

To commence, a light glaze is applied to the background using clear acrylic matte medium. This initial layer serves as a foundation for subsequent colors and adds a soft, ethereal quality to the painting.

Step 2: Adding Foreground Details

Once the background is set, the first layer of details can be added. Ultramarine blue is used to paint the hat, while the brownish tone is applied to create depth in the background. Care is taken to let these layers dry before continuing with additional details.

Step 3: Building Up Layers

The glazing technique thrives on layering. After the initial foreground details have dried, the focus shifts to the face and scarf. By layering thin glazes, the desired colors are built up gradually, allowing the light to penetrate through the layers.

Tip: Work from foreground to background to maintain focus on the subject. This approach helps keep details sharp and defined.

Step 4: Detailing the Features

Attention is drawn to the finer details in the face, such as the eyes and lips. Using various skin tones, nuances are added to create dimension. This is achieved by carefully layering pinkish tones on the cheeks and around the eyes, emphasizing features like eyebrows and the mustache with darker shades.

Technique: When applying glazes, it is essential to work thinly. The use of a clear acrylic medium mixed with paint ensures translucency, allowing for subtle color variations.

Step 5: Refining and Smoothing

As the painting progresses, the need to refine details becomes evident. Skip around the canvas, working on different sections to ensure balance and harmony in the overall composition. Smoothing out areas with a gentle hand helps in creating a realistic appearance.

Tip: Varying brush sizes and techniques can significantly enhance texture. Larger brushes are suitable for broader areas, while smaller brushes are ideal for intricate details.

Step 6: Enhancing Realism

To achieve a realistic finish, darker tones are added under the chin and in shadowed areas, enhancing the sense of depth. Highlights are strategically placed to simulate the effect of light on the face and clothing.

Technique: As the final layers are applied, incorporating more opaque white paint helps achieve smoother transitions between colors.

Step 7: Final Touches

At the later stages of the painting, I continue to add details and shading. Varying line thickness and texture are key components to realism. Then moves back and forth between different areas of the portrait, ensuring that the final touches are cohesive and enhance the overall image.

Step 8: Signing the Artwork

After all the details have been finalized, the painting is signed. This not only signifies the completion of the work but also adds a personal touch to the artwork.

Conclusion

This step-by-step guide on painting a realistic acrylic portrait using the glazing technique showcases how layered approaches can bring an image to life. By utilizing transparency and careful detailing, you can create stunning, lifelike portraits that capture the essence of their subjects.

Whether you are an experienced artist or just starting, mastering the glazing technique will enhance your acrylic painting skills.

Additional Tips and Techniques

Experiment with Colors: Don’t hesitate to mix different colors to achieve unique skin tones and shades.
Practice Patience: Building up layers takes time, but the results are worth the effort.
Use Reference Images: Having a clear reference will guide your color choices and proportions, making the process smoother.

By following these steps, you can enhance your painting techniques and create stunning, realistic portraits. Embrace the glazing method and enjoy the process of bringing your artistic visions to life!

For further resources and guides, visit realisticacrylic.com and check out my free courses to enhance your acrylic painting journey

Would you like to learn how to paint like this, with individual lessons broken down and explained?

Learn How to Paint Acrylic Portraits With My Free Mini-Video Course!

(The lessons show me painting a different picture, but the technique is the same. Enjoy! 🙂

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Why These Portraits Won the Contest

/ Student Critique Tips and Techniques Video Tutorial
/ By Matt Philleo

It is my privilege every week to judge entries for the Realistic Acrylic Portrait School Facebook Contest.

The best 5-6 images get chosen to be included on the Header Image of our 6,000+ member group. But why do I choose the portraits that make it to the top?

In this brief video, I’ll go over the reasons why I awarded these portraits the prizes they received. I also discuss what could be done to improve them.

You can learn from these tips on what makes for a good portrait and how to improve your own.

Also, if you aren’t currently a member of the Realistic Acrylic Portrait School Facebook group (it’s free to join), you should be! Here’s why…

Get help on your portrait from myself and fellow artists when you feel stuck.
Share your artwork with others and get inspired to paint more, by seeing what your fellow artists are doing.
Enter a portrait into the weekly contest, get your work featured, and win a prize!

Join the Realistic Acrylic Portrait School Facebook Group

See you inside the group! Let me know how these tips help, and of course, if you have any questions.

Yours for better portraits,

P.S. Did you find this post helpful or encouraging? If so, send it on ahead! Let others know with the share buttons below. I’d love to hear your comments. Thank you so much! Also, do you have a question on acrylic portrait painting you’d like answered? Let me know, and I’d be happy to help!

How to Ship a Large Painting in a Tube

A step-by-step guide to safely transporting your large portrait painting

Shipping large painting in a tube can often present unique challenges, especially when it comes to ensuring their safe arrival. Many artists find themselves questioning the best methods to transport their artwork without incurring high shipping costs. This guide will explore how to efficiently ship a large painting in a tube, offering tips and techniques for artists and art enthusiasts alike.

Logistics just isn’t my thing.

Nevertheless, when I finished this 48″ x 72″ portrait, for a client from Brunei (about as far as you can get from Wisconsin!) I knew the shipping could cost a pretty penny.

Shipping large painting in a tube — Acrylic portrait artist Matt Philleo posing in front of a 48″ x 72″ commission painting for a client in Brunei

After calling several shipping companies, the cost was going to be in the thousands! Finally, after a lot of back-and-forth, my client suggested that I remove the painting off the stretcher frame and ship it. I have to admit, I never did this before. I have stretched a rolled canvas for someone, so I figured it was basically the same thing, but in reverse!

Understanding the Challenges of Shipping Large Paintings

Shipping oversized artwork can be daunting. Many artists face exorbitant shipping fees when opting for traditional crating methods. In one instance, shipping quotes for a 48 by 72-inch painting reached the $2,000 to $3,000 range. However, there is a more cost-effective and efficient alternative shipping the painting rolled up in a tube.

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a Large Painting in a Tube

1. Prepare Your Canvas

The first step in this process involves carefully removing the canvas from the stretcher bars. The canvas is turned over and placed on a drafting table, ensuring ample workspace. Using a flat-head screwdriver, the screws holding the canvas in place are gently pried out. It is essential to avoid tearing the canvas during this step. This is done by scoring the edges of the canvas with an X-Acto blade, allowing for a careful separation.

Tip: Always start from the corners when removing the canvas. This method mimics the way you would stretch a canvas, ensuring the integrity of the artwork is maintained.

2. Roll the Canvas

Once the canvas is detached, a smaller tube with a diameter of around four inches is chosen to provide rigidity during transport. The canvas is rolled slowly and carefully, ensuring it remains straight throughout the process. A thin piece of plastic can be placed between the canvas and the tube to prevent paint from sticking to itself.

Tip: Rolling the canvas in a protective piece of fabric can add an extra layer of protection against dents or creases during shipping.

3. Secure the Canvas

After rolling, the canvas should be covered with craft paper and securely taped at both ends. The rolled canvas can then be placed inside the tube, which should fit snugly. Bubble wrap can be added for extra cushioning, preventing any movement within the tube during transport.

4. Cap the Ends

To ensure the canvas remains secure during shipping, homemade caps can be created for the ends of the tube. These caps can be fashioned from old paint containers, which can be cut and drilled for string ties. This design not only holds the canvas in place but also allows for easy removal upon arrival.

5. Protect Against Moisture

Applying a layer of varnish to the outside of the tube can provide additional protection against moisture during shipping. This added layer of protection can be crucial, especially when shipping to locations with varying climates.

6. Tape Everything Securely

Once the caps are in place, a cardboard cap can be added to the tube. This cap can be made from corrugated cardboard and attached with packaging tape. It is important to ensure that everything is anchored down securely. Several layers of tape can be wrapped around the tube, providing a solid structure for the shipping process.

Tip: It is often better to use more tape than necessary when securing the package, as it will minimize the risk of any damage during transport.

7. Final Checks

Before heading to the shipping facility, hold up the tube to ensure that nothing is rattling inside. A tight fit will help guarantee that the artwork arrives safely at its destination.

Conclusion

The process of shipping a large painting does not need to be an overwhelming task. By following these steps, artists can save on shipping costs while ensuring their artwork arrives in pristine condition. The experience of successfully shipping a large painting in a tube offers peace of mind, knowing that careful preparation can lead to a successful delivery.

Tips for Successful Shipping:

Use Quality Materials: Always choose sturdy tubes and protective materials to ensure safety.
Choose the Right Shipping Service: Research and select a reliable shipping service with experience in handling artwork.
Label Clearly: Include clear labeling on your package to avoid confusion during trans

For further resources and guides, visit realisticacrylic.com and check out my free courses to enhance your acrylic painting journey. Happy painting.

One thing I didn’t mention in the video was that I purchased plenty of insurance. I definitely recommend it.

Great news: I heard back from my client and the painting arrived safely! I guess that means all five pounds of packaging was worth it!

Let me know how these tips help, and have a blessed day!

Thank you to everyone who left encouraging comments and kind words on my first episode of the “30-Minute Acrylic Portrait.” Now, it’s on to Episode #2.

Step-by-step techniques for an elegant oval vignette in acrylic portrait

Understanding the Oval Vignette Technique

Step 1: Preparing Your Canvas with Initial Layers

Step 2: Blocking in Values and Colors

Step 3: Building Depth with Glazing Layers

Step 4: Enhancing Realism with Fine Details

Step 5: Adding Highlights and Final Touches

Tips and Techniques for Glazing Success

Why Glazing Works for Acrylic Portraits

Common Challenges and Solutions

Final Thoughts

Read more about how to paint a portrait that you can surely be proud of!

Discover the quick and simple method to capture portraits with speed and precision

Tips for Success in Fast-Paced Portrait Painting

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Conclusion

Read more about how to paint a portrait that you can surely be proud of!

Recently, I was browsing a couple of my favorite YouTube channels, and a fellow portrait painter that I look up to, Mark Carder, mentioned this amazing free resource for artists on his vlog.

Read more about how to paint a portrait that you can surely be proud of!

Unlock the secrets to creating captivating two bubble frame oval acrylic portraits

How I Painted These Oval Vintage Acrylic Portraits

Read more about how to paint a portrait that you can surely be proud of!

Learn the art of layering to create stunning backgrounds

Understanding Depth in Art

Techniques for Building Depth

1. Layering with Glazes

2. Creating Gradation

3. Employing Contrast

4. Incorporating Patterns and Textures

Tips for Effective Backgrounds

Conclusion

The Video Lesson…

Would you like to learn portrait painting from me in person?

Would you like to learn portrait painting from me in person?

Just prior to Christmas, I finished this portrait of a local engineer.

Understanding the Glazing Technique

Materials Required

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Preparing the Background

Step 2: Adding Foreground Details

Step 3: Building Up Layers

Step 4: Detailing the Features

Step 5: Refining and Smoothing

Step 6: Enhancing Realism

Step 7: Final Touches

Step 8: Signing the Artwork

Conclusion

Additional Tips and Techniques

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It is my privilege every week to judge entries for the Realistic Acrylic Portrait School Facebook Contest.

A step-by-step guide to safely transporting your large portrait painting

Understanding the Challenges of Shipping Large Paintings

Step-by-Step Guide to Shipping a Large Painting in a Tube

1. Prepare Your Canvas

2. Roll the Canvas

3. Secure the Canvas

4. Cap the Ends

5. Protect Against Moisture

6. Tape Everything Securely

7. Final Checks

Conclusion

Tips for Successful Shipping:

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