LEARNING TO DRYBRUSH

Mastering the Dry Brush Technique: Create Stunning Texture in Your Paintings

Dry brushing is one of the most versatile techniques in acrylic painting, perfect for adding texture, dimension, and visual interest to your artwork. Whether you’re painting weathered wood, fluffy clouds, or delicate highlights, this simple technique delivers impressive results - and it’s easier than you think!

What is Dry Brushing?

Despite its name, dry brushing doesn’t mean your brush is completely dry. Instead, you’re using very little paint with minimal water, creating a scratchy, textured effect as the brush drags across your canvas. The bristles leave behind broken, uneven marks that add depth and character to your painting.

How to Dry Brush Like a Pro

Start with a clean, dry brush - stiff flat brushes work beautifully for this technique. Dip just the tip of your brush into undiluted paint, then wipe most of it off onto a paper towel or palette. You want barely any paint left on the bristles.

Using light pressure, drag the brush quickly across your canvas surface. The paint should catch only on the raised texture of the canvas, leaving some areas unpainted. This creates that signature broken, weathered look that makes dry brushing so effective.

When to Use Dry Brushing

This technique shines when you need texture. Use it to create realistic wood grain, add dimension to tree bark, suggest grass or fur, or build up highlights on water. It’s particularly effective for adding final touches and details that make your painting pop.

Dry brushing works best over dried paint layers. The contrast between your base color and the dry-brushed layer creates visual depth. Try using lighter colors over darker bases for highlights, or darker colors over light bases for shadows and definition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistake beginners make is using too much paint. Remember: less is more! You can always add more layers, but you can’t easily remove heavy-handed dry brushing. Also, avoid pressing too hard - let the brush do the work with light, quick strokes.

Practice Makes Perfect

Grab a practice canvas and experiment! Try different brush types, varying pressure, and multiple layers. You’ll quickly discover how versatile and forgiving this technique can be.

Ready to try dry brushing in a complete painting? Our online membership includes tutorials featuring this technique and many others - all for just $8.88/month. Start building your skills today!