Learn to paint a pretty picture on canvas with acrylics.

Learn to paint a pretty picture on canvas with acrylics using the ghost technique, following a complete materials list, preparation of mixtures, and outline and gradient techniques.

Prepare the canvas by applying gesso, raw or virgin, with water, then coat once in one direction and a thicker second coat in the opposite, drying edges six hours.

Transfer the pattern to the canvas by assembling a 20-page mold, pasting in rows, tracing with paper or pencil, then smooth with sandpaper (360–400) and prepare painting pots.

Apply the base with acrylics using a brush number 12, moistened, color at a time. Check the color map for placement, trace edges, blend colors close, and dry before shaping.

Learn to apply shadows with acrylics using broad and smaller brushes, blend colors on canvas, and correct background while layering blues, yellows, oranges, and greens.

Paint with acrylics, apply red tones to the face and neck, clean with a wet rag, shade with blue, white, orange, and yellow to define lips, skin, and leaves.

Apply the first and second acrylic layers to shade the eye, then delineate it with a permanent marker, and finish the edges with black brown and a white brush.

Mix equal parts resin and hardener, wear gloves, and stir slowly to avoid bubbles. Apply the resin evenly on a stable, level surface and let dry for 24 hours.

Apply patina to the canvas with orange oil, black oil, dark brown acrylic, and turpentine on the edges, rest briefly, and seal with two coats of bright lacquer.