Snowed In

A step-by-step painting guide by Richard Robinson

Learn to paint this classic snowy scene, step by step. This scene was just begging to be painted. Even without snow it was great, but the snow was literally the icing on the cake. Join me as I take you through this beautiful painting step by step. You’ll learn how to paint snow in sunlight and shade, create a glowing colour effect, and how to simplify complex detail.

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

"Snowed In" 14x14" Oil on Canvas by Richard Robinson.

Step 1Materials and tools

What size is the canvas used in the 'Snowed In' painting lesson?

The canvas used in the 'Snowed In' painting lesson is a 14-inch square canvas. If you're interested in more details about the materials and techniques used in this lesson, you can explore further on the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

What type of brushes are used in the 'Snowed In' painting lesson?

In the 'Snowed In' painting lesson, long bristle flat brushes are used in sizes 12, 8, and some synthetic 2s for finer detail. To learn more about the tools and techniques in this lesson, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

What is the purpose of the walnut oil in the painting process?

Walnut oil is used in the painting process to help with the flow of the paint. It is placed in a little puddle on the palette for easy access. For more insights into the materials and their uses in this lesson, check out the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

How is the reference image used in the 'Snowed In' painting lesson?

The reference image is displayed on an iPad, which is placed beside the easel for easy viewing while painting. This helps in maintaining accuracy and consistency in the artwork. For a deeper understanding of how references are used in this lesson, visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

Why are paper towels important in the painting process?

Paper towels are important for cleaning brushes during the painting process, ensuring that colors do not mix unintentionally. To learn more about the materials and their roles in this lesson, you can visit the sales page at https://mypaintingclub.com/lessons/84-Snowed-In.

Step 2: Sketching the composition →

Summary & key takeaways

As we wrap up our 'Snowed In' painting journey, I hope you've enjoyed exploring the delicate balance of light and shadow, and the subtle nuances of color that bring a snowy scene to life. From the initial sketch to the final touches, each step was designed to guide you in capturing the essence of a winter landscape, with the red truck as our focal point.

Throughout this lesson, my aim was to help you see how strategic composition and thoughtful color mixing can transform a blank canvas into a vibrant scene. By focusing on big shapes first and gradually refining details, we maintained the painting's overall harmony and depth. I trust that these techniques will empower you to create more dynamic and engaging artworks in the future.

Remember, painting is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Each brushstroke is an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Keep experimenting, trust your instincts, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Points to remember

Use walnut oil to improve paint flow.
Sketch big shapes first, then refine.
Mix grays to add depth and versatility.
Establish light and shadow with thin layers.
Contrast warm subjects with cool backgrounds.
Add warmth to snowy scenes with subtle colors.
Use big brushes for gestural strokes in snow.
Reflect light in snow to enhance realism.