Step-by-step painting guide

Safe Harbour

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

Learn to paint this beautiful harbour scene, step by step. Welcome to the beautiful medieval village of Yvoire in France. Apparently it closes completely in the winter (Yvoire, not France) but while we were there it was warm, beautiful and begging to be painted. Follow me step by step as I show you the techniques I use to paint this ideal harbour scene quickly and easily in acrylics. Designing with big shapes, inventing warm light, creating atmospheric depth and painting reflections are all demonstrated in the video. Enjoy!

This guide accompanies the full video lesson. The lesson includes the complete narrated video, the printable PDF chapter, and personalised critique support.

See the full lesson
"Safe Harbour" 11 x 13" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.
"Safe Harbour" 11 x 13" Acrylic on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 12Painting the Sailboat

What base color should I use for painting the sail?

Start off with a warm gray, almost an orange, as your base color for the sail. This will provide a nice foundation for the rest of the painting. For more detailed guidance, you can visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

How should I handle the edges of the sail while painting?

Be careful with the edges of the sail to avoid having to repaint the sky around it. Taking your time with this step will help maintain clean lines and reduce extra work. For further tips, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

What colors should I use for the shadows on the sail?

Since the sail is semi-transparent and light is coming through it, the shadows won't be very dark. Use neutral grays or slightly cool tones that are only slightly darker than the sail's base color. For more insights, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

How can I depict the light on the sail effectively?

Use a much lighter version of the original base color, mainly white, and apply it with impasto brushwork to catch the light on the sail. Ensure the light part isn't all the same brightness; make it slightly darker as it curves into the middle of the sail. For more techniques, see the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

What type of boat is being painted in this lesson?

The boat being painted is a traditional sloop, which is a classic style. You can look up images of traditional sloops online for more inspiration. For additional context, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

Can I paint a different type of boat in this scene?

Yes, you can paint any type of boat you want in this scene. The instructor is making up the boat in this lesson, so feel free to use your creativity. For more creative ideas, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

What brush should I use for painting the rigging?

Use a rigger brush for painting the rigging. It's specifically designed for this purpose and will help you achieve fine lines. For more brushwork tips, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/61-Safe-Harbour.

Summary & key takeaways

As I reflect on our journey through painting 'Safe Harbour,' I am reminded of the importance of laying a strong foundation with initial sketches and studies. These early steps are crucial for understanding composition, values, and color schemes, setting the stage for a successful painting. By taking the time to explore different ideas and refine them into a detailed cartoon, we ensure that our final piece is well thought out and cohesive.

Throughout the painting process, I emphasized the creative freedom that distinguishes painting from photography. By making thoughtful design changes, such as adding a sailboat for focus or adjusting the castle's shape for balance, we can enhance the visual interest and emotional impact of our work. These decisions, along with subtle color adjustments, help to create a dynamic and engaging scene.

I hope that as you continue your painting journey, you embrace the flexibility of your chosen medium, whether acrylics or oils, and experiment with techniques like creating background gradients and transferring drawings. Remember, each brushstroke is an opportunity to express your unique vision and bring your painting to life.

Points to remember
  • Start with thumbnail sketches to explore composition ideas.
  • Use black and white, grayscale, and color studies to understand values and color schemes.
  • Embrace the differences between painting and photography for creative expression.
  • Make design changes to create a clear center of interest.
  • Adjust colors to add warmth and vibrancy to your painting.
  • Use acrylics for background gradients, even when painting in oils.
  • Transfer drawings accurately using graphite or the grid method.
  • Experiment with filbert brushes for versatile strokes and effects.