Learn how to use oil paints with this clear and simple guide. An accomplished artist and teacher Norman Long explains all the basics and shows you how to master this versatile, vibrant medium so you can produce beautiful paintings full of life and colour.

A handy front section covers all the practical stuff, from choosing suitable materials to essential techniques. Ten step-by-step tutorials then guide you through a range of subject matter, from still life to landscapes and figures, providing a thorough grounding in painting with oils. Each tutorial is broken down into key stages, with clear step-by-step photography and easy-to-follow instructions. There are also special features on composition, painting outdoors and painting people. Throughout, Norman gives plenty of tips and practical advice to help you make the most of your paints.

Learn techniques, including:

• Materials and equipment
• Drawing
• Light, shade and tone
• Colour theory

Projects include:

• Still life
• Cityscape
• Sky
• Self-portrait
• Moving figures
• And so much more.

It’s no real surprise that oil paint has been used for hundreds of years and is still the most popular painting medium. Oils create luminous, hard-wearing colours and can be used in infinite ways. Because they dry slowly, you have long working hours or even days after you start, and their slow-drying nature means they are fantastic for creating subtle colour blends. Best of all, if you make a mistake, you can scrape off and repaint as many times as you like.

Painting with oils is easier than you might think, and oil painting rules are straightforward. Once you know them, you can do almost anything while producing works lasting for generations.