DIY Paint Splattering
While you can paint a base coat with acrylics, the end result might look flat and need some dimension. Splattering is a freehand technique of paint application that adds visual interest to otherwise flat surfaces. You can splatter acrylic paint on walls, canvas or paper, or combine splattering with drips. Try finishing an abstract painting by splattering on it to add some texture.
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Instructions
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Cover your work area with a drop cloth before you start; this type of painting is particularly messy. Cover floors and furniture, as well as any areas or objects that may be exposed to splattering. You can also move your work outside, weather permitting. Wear old clothes or cover up with an old T-shirt.
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Dip your paintbrush or toothbrush in paint. Or, apply the paint onto the toothbrush with your paintbrush. The more area you need to cover, the larger your paintbrush should be. Thoroughly rinse and dry your brushes, no matter the type, for best results when changing paint colors, or use different brushes for different colors.
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Use your finger to flick the paint from the paintbrush onto the surface. Alternate between hitting the brush firmly and with less force to vary the look. Scrape your thumbnail across the toothbrush for a slightly different effect. Fling the paint for another look.
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Repeat paint splattering with the same or different colors as desired.
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Experiment with thinner and thicker paints for various effects. A color will look lighter when thinned and darker when thickened.
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Tips & Warnings
Children might enjoy a paint-splatter nature picture on paper or canvas. Find a leaf or group several together. Splatter the paint all over the paper and leaves until the leaves and most of the paper are covered. Allow to dry. Remove and dispose of the leaves to see the resulting outlines.
Water colors and oils don't work well for splattering.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
