How to Create Textured Art: Tips, Techniques and Tools

Do you love textured art and want to create the same type of artworks, but just not sure where to begin?

Creating and mastering textured art is a captivating way to engage with your creativity and add depth to your artistic paintings and expressions. From exploring different mediums and techniques to incorporating color and composition, textured art offers a tactile dimension that can elevate your artwork to new heights.

In this article, I will delve into the world of how to create textured art, providing insights on materials, tools, techniques, and finishing touches to help you embark on your textured art journey with confidence and inspiration.

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SILVER TO THE TOUCH art created with texture mediums and acrylics.
Take this class and create a similar artwork!

Textured Art

Texture in art is like sprinkles on a cupcake – it adds depth, interest, and a whole lot of flavor to your creation. It’s one of my favorite things to incorporate in my artworks! Whether you’re a seasoned artist looking to spice up your work or a newbie beginner artist eager to experiment, textured art is a fantastic way to add dimension and character to your pieces.

The Appeal of Texture in Art

Texture isn’t just something you can touch; it’s something you can feel with your eyes. Adding texture to your artwork can evoke emotions, create visual interest, and make your piece pop. From rough and gritty to smooth and glossy, texture adds a whole new layer of complexity that can take your art from blah to wow! I particularly love the crackle effect that crackle paste can give you. This is an example of crackle paste art:

Choosing Materials for Textured Art

When it comes to textured art, the world is your oyster (or your textured clam shell)! Selecting the right materials is key to achieving the perfect amount of texture in your artwork. Whether you prefer working with traditional mediums or you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, there are endless possibilities for creating textured masterpieces.

Exploring Different Texturing Mediums for Art

From acrylic gels and modeling paste to sand, coffee grounds, and even shredded paper, the world of texturing mediums is vast and varied. Experimenting with different mediums can give your artwork a unique look and feel, allowing you to create textures that are as diverse as your imagination. I’ve used many of them. Explore my blog for various tutorials and demos to see how to use them.

Selecting the Right Surfaces for Textured Art

Just like a good foundation is essential for a solid building, choosing the right surface is crucial for textured art. Whether you prefer canvas, wood, paper, or even unconventional surfaces like fabric or metal, selecting the right surface can make a world of difference in how your textures come to life.

TIP- Use a good, solid surface for texture mediums. Be sure it is tightly stretched canvas and secure or you run the risk of the drying texture medium causing puckering and cracking.

See my video WILL IT CRACK? on using various texture mediums on raw canvas.

Techniques for Adding Texture to Your Artwork

There are countless techniques you can use to create texture in your pieces, from sculpting and layering to carving and collaging. Experiment with different techniques to find the ones that speak to your artistic soul. Using a modeling paste is a great way to get hard and thick texture onto your painting.

Impasto Technique

Impasto is like the thick frosting on a cake – it’s about using your paint in very thick layers to create a three-dimensional effect. By using a palette knife to apply thick, textured paint to your canvas, you can create bold, expressive textures that truly pop. You can experiment with affordable paints to see if you like this – affordable set of acrylic paints.

This painting (MIDNIGHT SIZZLE) has applied texture but mostly impasto creating a surface textured artwork.

Collage and Mixed Media

Collage and mixed media are like a melting pot of artistic goodness – combining different materials and textures to create a cohesive masterpiece. By layering paper, fabric, found objects, and more onto your artwork, you can create a rich tapestry of textures that tell a unique story.

Incising and Carving

Incising and carving are like sculpting with your paintbrush – using tools to create intricate textures and designs in your artwork. Whether you’re scratching lines into wet paint or carving patterns into a textured surface, these techniques can add a whole new dimension to your pieces. Laying down a thick texture medium and then dragging your tools through it creates unique texture.

Exploring Different Texturing Tools

Just as a chef has their favorite kitchen gadgets, an artist has their trusty texturing tools. From palette knives and texture combs to natural elements like leaves and twigs, there are endless options for adding texture to your artwork. So grab your tools and get ready to create some textured magic!

TIP: Be sure to have several different palette knives on hand if choosing to work with textures or impasto. These are a must for laying down texture (they are also easy to clean) vs. using brushes.

Palette Knives

My favorite tool! Palette knives are like the Swiss Army knives of the art world – versatile, precise, and oh-so-fun to use. By scraping, smearing, and sculpting paint with a palette knife, you can create a variety of textures that add depth and interest to your artwork. Invest in a good set of palette knives you will have for years.

Texture laid down on surface with palette knife. After it dries, then you can paint over it. Or you can use your knife to lay down thick layers of painting and create unique textures!

Texture Combs and Stamps

Texture combs and stamps are like the secret weapons in your textured art arsenal – they can create intricate patterns and designs with ease. Whether you’re dragging a comb through wet paint or stamping textures onto your surface, these tools can help you achieve professional-looking results with minimal effort. You can use everyday household items like bamboo skewers, plastic forks/knives and even your fingers to create unique looks and textures in paint.

Natural Elements for Texture

Nature is like the ultimate texture artist, providing us with an endless array of textures to incorporate into our artwork. Some artists use leaves and flowers to create imprints in clay or pressing twigs and shells into wet paint, natural elements can add a touch of organic beauty to your textured creations. # Creating Depth and Dimension with Texture

Texture adds a whole new dimension to your artwork, literally. By layering different materials and techniques, you can create a piece that not only looks visually interesting but also feels captivating to touch. It’s like giving your art a little extra oomph.

Layering Techniques

Experiment! Think of your artwork as a delicious lasagna (yum!) – layer upon layer of goodness that makes the final dish irresistible. Experiment with using various materials such as acrylic gels, modeling paste, fabric, or even sand to build up texture. Each layer adds depth and complexity, creating a rich visual feast for the eyes.

Playing with Light and Shadow

Just like contouring can enhance your cheekbones, playing with light and shadow can accentuate the texture in your artwork. Think about how light falls on different surfaces and how shadows create depth. Use this to your advantage to highlight certain textures and create a more dynamic composition.

Incorporating Color and Composition in Textured Art

Color and texture are like peanut butter and jelly – they just belong together. Understanding how to use color effectively in textured art can take your piece from “meh” to masterpiece. And don’t forget about composition; it’s like the blueprint that holds everything together.

Color Theory for Textured Art

Color theory is like a secret language that can make or break your artwork. Play around with complementary colors to make your textures pop, or use analogous colors for a harmonious feel. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see how different color combinations interact with your textures.

Balancing Texture and Negative Space

Just like in life, balance is key when it comes to art. While texture adds interest and depth, negative space provides breathing room for the eye to rest. Finding the right balance between texture and negative space can create a visually engaging composition that keeps the viewer coming back for more.

This painting (GOLDRUSH) has a ton of texture! Applied thick texture plus lots of impasto. However it does not appear overwhelming as it has “light space” to keep it from looking too heavy.

Finishing and Displaying Your Textured Artwork

You’ve put your heart and soul into creating textured art, so now it’s time to give it the finishing touches it deserves. From protective coatings to choosing the perfect frame, these final steps can make all the difference in how your artwork is perceived.

Protective Coatings and Finishes

Think of protective coatings as the bodyguard for your artwork. They help protect the delicate textures you’ve worked so hard to create from dust, dirt, and damage. Whether you prefer glossy, matte, or satin finishes, choose a coating that not only enhances your textures but also keeps them looking fresh for years to come.

Choosing Frames and Mounting Options

The right frame can elevate your artwork to a whole new level. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern frame or a more ornate design, choose one that complements your textured art without overpowering it. And don’t forget about mounting options – a floating mount frame can give your artwork a contemporary look, while a traditional mat can add a touch of elegance. In conclusion, textured art opens up a world of possibilities for artists seeking to add depth, dimension, and tactile allure to their creations.

By experimenting with various materials, techniques, and tools, you can discover a unique artistic voice that resonates with texture. Whether you are a seasoned artist or a beginner exploring new avenues of creativity, embracing textured art can bring a sense of richness and vibrancy to your work. So, unleash your imagination, explore the realm of texture, and let your textured artistry flourish on canvas and beyond.

FAQs on Textured Art

1. Can I create textured art without using specialized tools?

Absolutely! Using everyday items like plastic forks and knives is a great way to experiment with textures without investing a lot of money. You can also use an inexpensive set of plastic palette knives to see what sizes you like before you buy a good metal set.

2. How can I ensure the durability of textured art pieces over time?

The best ways are to 1.) Use archival materials 2.) Finish with archival varnish

1. Archival materials are good paints and mediums (brands like Golden, Liquitex, Grumbach – there are many!) are the foundation for creating an artwork that will last over time. Using craft or student-level materials are great for experimenting or learning, but not the best for creating high-end, enduring artworks. Get a good set of paints to get started.
   
2. Finish your artwork with varnish – I like a spray varnish with a satin finish (I use this one) as I find it the easiest to get very nice finished looks. However you can use paint on varnish or whatever type your like. If using spray be sure to be outside or in a very well-ventilated area!

3. Is it possible to combine different texturing techniques in a single artwork?

You bet! I often use various type of texture. If you want a more minimalistic modern look, choose one type. If you want to create a more multi-dimensional look, you can use texture paste or gels, some fibrous texture and even use some impasto.

Happy painting!

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