If you would like to try Finger Painting these suggestions will help you get started.
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Materials: Finger paints and paper are available at most art and school supply stores. The paints come in standard colors. Finger paint paper is a good economical choice for early work. As your skills increase I suggest you try cold-press Bristol Board - a higher quality paper.
Methods: Work on an absolutely smooth and water resistant surface, such as a formica countertop. (Much of my early painting was done at our kitchen table - during the night when I had the table to myself.) Have a small pan of water, a damp washcloth, paper towels, and a few tongue depressors close by. |
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Dip your hand into the pan of water and thoroughly wet the surface with a smearing motion of your open palm. (Note: Remove all rings - they leave scratch marks on the paper.) Place a sheet of finger paint paper onto the wet surface, and carefully smooth it out. Work progressively from the center out to either side using the edge of your hand - adding more water as needed to minimize friction on the paper. When all wrinkles and bubbles on the paper are eliminated you are ready to start painting. |
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Use tongue depressors to dip the colors onto moistened paper; get your fingers into the paint, move it around - experiment and enjoy! I hope you will not stop after your first or second effort. In workshops I encourage at least three - to allow deeper levels to emerge - to get beyond the superficial. |
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When finished with your work, sign it with your fingernail, pick it up carefully by the top corners and lay it flat to dry on several thicknesses of spread-out newspapers. Drying time will range from a few hours to over night, depending on the consistency of the paint. When dry, press the painting under something flat and heavy - a plywood panel weighted with books will do. Presentation:Whether framed or unframed a painting is enhanced by an appropriate mat. Mats in most any size and color can be cut at your local frame shop.
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