Paint with the Side of the Brush
Explore broad marks using one paint color and the side of a brush.
- 10–20 minutes, plus drying
- Some setup
- Seated friendly
- Some cleanup
- Low effort
What you need
Use washable, water-based paint you already own, sturdy paper, a water container, and a washable or protected work surface. Active time excludes drying.
- paper
- paint
- brush
- water container
- water
- washable or protected work surface
Make it
Use washable, water-based paint you already own, sturdy paper, a water container, and a washable or protected work surface. Active time excludes drying.
- 1
Set out your paper, water, and one color. Load the brush lightly using the paint's usual instructions.
- 2
Lay the brush at a shallow angle and pull one broad stroke across the paper.
- 3
Make a few more strokes, changing only pressure or direction. Leave space between marks to see their edges.
- 4
Stop before filling the page. Rinse the brush and clean your work area, then leave the paper flat to dry.
Short on energy? Make one stroke and clean the brush.
A good place to stop: Three broad strokes are enough.
Make it work for you: Use a larger easy-grip brush and rest your forearm. A dry colored-pencil version is an alternative, with different supplies.
Another route: After the page dries, turn it around and look for a favorite edge.