OpenTube

#22 How To Start A Painting Using Blocking | Oil Painting Tutorial

Michael James Smith

190,282 views

In this oil painting tutorial I'll show you how to start a painting using blocking. Blocking in is the first step in defining the dominant tones and colours of the final painting.

I'm a professional landscape artist with over 20 years of experience in oil painting. My YouTube Channel is dedicated to helping people learn how to paint in oils. I really believe that everyone can learn how to paint!

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20 Comments

@hugh_betcha 9 years ago

I know I have a long way to go yet when my attempts at realism look worse than your blocking in. (lol) Thanks for sharing your process Michael, it's very much appreciated! :)

@barbarasartin4022 10 years ago

I've been painting for a while and I thought I was never going to get better ,but since I've been watching you I have improved my painting tremendously! I agree I could watch your painting over and over!!!!!!

@sbstone3888 9 years ago

Still hanging in here watching and learning from you. Wish you're share your Father with us some time. I hear him moving around and see him working too. I think it's marvelous that you both support each other works and I'm sure that is where you have learned much.

@MrDaiseymay 8 years ago (edited)

JEEEEEEEEEEEEEEZUS---FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 40 YEARS OF WATCHING ARTIST'S ON TV, AND BUYING MANY ART BOOKS, TRYING TO FIND OUT WHY--ARTIST'S DO WHAT THIS GUY IS DOING, WHAT THE HELL FOR--AND--WHAT IS IT CALLED ????? NOW I HAVE THOSE ANSWERS---B-L-O-C-K-I-N-G. THANK YOU MIKE

@RayNasoArt 4 years ago

I've found that blocking in with acrylic helps take my paintings to the next level. Thanks Michael for all your great painting demos.

@roannacarleton-taylor6253 7 years ago

Never seen anybody paint the way you can. If I had 1% of your skill and talent I would be a happy painter :)

@patfontaine5917 1 year ago

I watch your videos several times over the years, and I’m always learning something new. Thanks!

@carole.kratzkd6992 10 years ago

That's a great way to start Michael,never occured to me to block in with Acrylic,I was on the verge of giving them away as I never got on with painting with them,they just dried too quickly here in Southern Spain,even with a retardant gel,you are brilliant! A master in the making! Thank you so much.

@stevegates7886 4 years ago

Thank you so much for showing how to do this. I tried it for the first time, and it made a huge difference. It really helped with getting the colors in place and making painting so much more fun

@sophiebuzora9616 8 years ago

You have gold in your hands.

@MichelleLynnFineArt 9 years ago

I'm not very good at landscapes, so I'm hoping I will learn something from you 😊

@meenalagarwal216 9 years ago

Hi Michael! Your paintings are just awesome. Always scared of panting landscapes because of too much detailing, but your paintings just tempt to give them a try again. Wonderful work and great tips. :)