Paint Care & Tips

Getting a new Velvet Brushes kit is the start of a relaxing journey. To help you create a masterpiece you’re proud to hang on your wall, we’ve put together this little guide from our Bristol studio. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a pro, these tips will keep your paints fresh and your canvas smooth.

1. Prepping Your Canvas

When your kit arrives, the canvas might have a few tiny creases from its journey. Don’t sweat it!

  • The Ironing Trick: Lay your canvas face down on a clean, dry towel. Set your iron to a low heat (the silk or wool setting works best) and gently iron the back.
  • Result: You’ll have a perfectly flat surface ready for color.

2. Master the Painting Process

You don’t need to be Van Gogh to get this right. Just follow the numbers:

  • One Color at a Time: We always suggest finishing all the areas for one specific number before moving to the next. This keeps your brushes clean and prevents accidental mixing.
  • Top-Down Approach: Start from the top of the canvas and work your way down. This way, you won't smudge the wet paint with your hand as you move.
  • The Tiny Details: For those super small sections, use just the very tip of your smallest brush. If you go outside the lines? No biggie! Just wait for it to dry and paint over it with the correct color.

3. Essential Paint Care (Save your kit!)

Acrylic paint is wonderful because it dries fast, but that also means it can dry out in the pot if you aren't careful.

  • Snap it Shut: This is the golden rule. Every time you dip your brush, snap that lid back down. Even 10 minutes of open air can make the paint start to thicken.
  • The "Drop of Life": If a color feels a little too thick or "tacky," add one single drop of warm water and stir it with a toothpick. It’ll bring that creamy texture right back.
  • Keep Brushes Fresh: Acrylic paint ruins brushes if it dries on the bristles. Keep a cup of water handy and rinse your brush thoroughly every time you take a break or switch numbers.

4. Why the "Sealed Pot" Rule Matters

As we mention in our Returns Policy, we can only take back kits if the paint pots are still factory-sealed. We do this to ensure every customer gets fresh, liquid gold for their art. Once a pot is popped open, the clock starts ticking on the paint's life, so make sure you’re ready to paint before you break the seal!

A final word of advice...

There are no mistakes in art, only "happy accidents." Take your time, put on some music, and enjoy the process of bringing your Velvet Brushes kit to life.